7 Common Myths About Online Notary Services

Key Takeaways

• Online notary services offer Canadians a convenient way to complete eligible document signing and commissioning remotely.
• Online appointments use security measures such as identity verification, encrypted video calls, and secure document handling.
• You don’t need advanced technical skills or special equipment—online appointments can be completed using a compatible device with a camera and internet connection.
• Online services can save time by eliminating travel, waiting rooms, and many of the scheduling challenges associated with in-person appointments.
• In-person services still have an important role, but for eligible documents, online notary services can provide a fast and flexible alternative.

When it comes to handling important documents, many people are still uncertain about using online notary services. Questions about legality, security, and reliability often cause hesitation, leaving clients unsure whether going digital is a safe choice.

The truth is, online notary services are legal, secure, and designed to save time while simplifying the notary experience. Still, misconceptions continue to circulate.

This article debunks seven common myths about online notary services and shows why they are a trusted solution for today’s notary needs.

Myth 1: Online notary services aren’t legal

One of the most common misconceptions is that an online notary service doesn’t carry the same authority as an in-person meeting. Many people assume that unless a notary is sitting across the table from you, the service isn’t valid.

The truth: Online notary services are recognized and regulated across multiple provinces in Canada. For example, in Ontario, the Electronic Commerce Act confirms that electronic signatures have the same binding effect as ink on paper. In addition, Ontario Regulation 431/20, introduced in 2020, formally allows notaries to administer oaths and affirmations over secure, real-time video calls.

Thus, when you book an online notary service with us, the process is every bit as legitimate as a traditional office appointment. Your identity is verified, your signature is witnessed, and your document is finalized with an official electronic seal. The result: a legally valid notary experience, delivered with modern convenience.

Myth 2: An online notary service isn’t secure

Many people hesitate to use online notary services, fearing that sharing sensitive documents online might expose them to fraud or data theft. After all, legal paperwork often contains some of the most private details of your life.

The truth: Our online notary platform is designed with ironclad security that goes beyond what’s possible in many traditional, face-to-face notary services. Every appointment is hosted over a secure, encrypted video call, ensuring that both audio and video remain private from start to finish.

Your identity is confirmed by a licensed notary professional, not a machine, adding human oversight that prevents impersonation and fraud. Each session also produces a tamper-proof audit trail that documents every step of the notary experience, creating a record you can trust. Additionally, with encrypted document storage, your files remain safely protected even after the appointment ends.

With these safeguards in place, an online notary solution like ours raises the standard for protecting your personal information.

Myth 3: You need special software or tech skills to avail online notary service

Many people assume online notary services require complicated software or technical knowledge that feels intimidating or inconvenient.

The truth: Our online notary solution is designed to be simple, user-friendly, and accessible through a secure browser or app.

All you need is a device with a camera, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. The entire notary experience takes place through a guided platform that is straightforward, intuitive, and easy to follow at every step.

This makes online notary services accessible for everyone, no matter your technical skills or comfort level with technology.

Advantages of Online Notary Service 

Online commissioning provides a flexible and modern alternative to in-person meetings, making it especially appealing for busy clients or remote situations. Here are some of its main advantages:

• Convenience: Online notary appointments can be completed from home using any device with a camera and internet connection. To learn more, our guide to preparing for an online notary appointment can help you feel ready.
• Accessibility: You can join an online notary appointment from anywhere with Wi-Fi, making them ideal for clients who cannot easily travel.
• Speed: The process is fast — with us, our online commissioning sessions take less than 7 minutes.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Since there’s no need to commute, you can save money on transportation costs.
• Flexible Scheduling: Our online notary appointments are available outside traditional business hours, including mornings, evenings, and weekends, fitting into your personal or professional life.
• Comfort: Many clients appreciate avoiding commutes, parking, or waiting rooms while still receiving a secure, professional notary experience.

Myth 4:  Online notaries are less trustworthy than in-person notaries

Some people believe an online notary service is less reliable because the interaction happens virtually instead of face-to-face.

The truth: Online notaries are licensed professionals who follow the same legal and ethical standards as traditional in-person notaries. They complete the same training, hold the same credentials, and are bound by the same laws that govern traditional notary services.

What’s more, online notary solutions add layers of accountability through secure video records, identity verification, and detailed audit trails. This combination of professional licensing and enhanced safeguards makes online notary services every bit as trustworthy—often more transparent—than the old-fashioned approach.

Myth 5: An online notary appointment takes longer to complete

Some people worry that online notary services are slow, complicated, and add more time compared to a traditional in-office appointment.

The truth: Online notary services save significant time because you skip travel, waiting rooms, and scheduling delays. With us, our online notary appointments take about 7 minutes from start to finish, making the process fast and efficient. For instant service, the average waiting time is only about 5 minutes before you are connected with a licensed professional.

Myth 6: Online notary services are more expensive than in-person notarization

Many assume online notary services cost more because they involve advanced technology and extra security features.

The truth: When you look at the total cost, online notary services often save money compared to traditional office appointments. With in-person visits, you may spend on gas, parking, or even courier services just to get your document signed. Time is also money. Taking hours off work or rearranging your schedule creates hidden costs that online services help you avoid.

We offer flat, transparent pricing, so you know exactly what you’ll pay before booking your online notary service. When you consider convenience, time saved, and reduced expenses, online notary solutions become the smarter, more affordable choice for individuals and businesses.

Myth 7: In-person notarization is always better than online notary service

Some people believe an in-person notary appointment is the only way to get a reliable, professional notary experience.

The truth: Online notary services carry the same legal validity as in-person services while offering unmatched convenience and flexibility. With secure platforms, licensed notaries, and digital safeguards, online services meet the same professional standards as office-based appointments.

For many clients, the ability to have documents signed and commissioned from home, the office, or while travelling is a game-changer.

Why Choosing an Online Notary Service Makes Sense Today

Online notary services are no longer just a “modern alternative.” They are a legitimate, secure, and efficient solution for today’s notary needs. Dispelling these myths shows that an online notary service provides a trusted experience with the speed and convenience clients need.

For individuals and businesses alike, this means faster notary appointments, fewer costs, and the ability to meet notary needs from virtually anywhere.

Ready to experience the benefits yourself? Book an online notary appointment with us today and have your documents signed and commissioned from anywhere in just 7 minutes.