What Michigan Notaries Must Do Before Performing RON
- Hold a current, active Michigan notary commission
- Apply for and receive electronic notarization authorization from the Secretary of State (if required as a separate step in Michigan)
- Select and register with a state-approved RON platform
- Complete any additional education requirements specific to electronic notarization
- Confirm E&O insurance covers electronic and remote notarizations
- Verify lender and title company acceptance before accepting RON assignments
Identity Verification for RON
RON identity verification uses knowledge-based authentication (KBA) — a series of multiple-choice questions drawn from public records — and/or credential analysis, which involves the signer uploading a photo of their government-issued ID for automated verification. Both methods have limitations. For high-value real estate transactions, many platforms require both methods.
Journal and Recording Requirements
For RON, Michigan requires an electronic journal entry and audio-visual recording for each notarial act. Most approved RON platforms generate these records automatically. Verify the retention period required by Michigan law and ensure your platform retains records for at least that period. Understand what happens to your records if you change platforms or if the platform provider ceases operations.