CONSUMER ALERT:
Online Notarization Services Are NOT legal in Wisconsin.
Online
webcam notarization is
invalid and illegal in the State of Wisconsin. A private company
claims to have the first online notarization website; neither they nor
any other company may provide online notarization in Wisconsin. The
web-based
platform purports to allow a person to submit copies of identification
over the Internet and to use a webcam in lieu of a personal appearance
in front of a Notary Public. Appearance via webcam does not meet the
requirements for notarization in Wisconsin.
Please be aware that a notary applicant does not need to "join" a
notary association in order to become a notary public in Wisconsin.
Additionally, a renewing notary does not need to buy a new stamp every
four years, unless the current seal or stamp is worn out. If a company
offers a notary stamp along with the bond, and the applicant doesn't
need a new stamp, the applicant may wish to consider other insurance
companies.
Wisconsin Notaries Public are authorized under current law to perform
notarizations as long as all the requirements for the act are met,
including the use of a seal. Wisconsin law requires a person to appear
personally before a Notary Public to obtain notarial acts. This means
the party must be physically present before the Notary Public. A video
image or other form of non-physical representation is not a personal
appearance in front of a Notary Public under current state or federal
laws. The technology solution offered by this private company does not
comply with Wisconsin law.
If you have questions or would like additional information
regarding this alert, please call the Office of the Secretary of
State, Notary Section, at (608) 266-5594.
Thank you.
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