Remote notarization is now an available option in New York state. This is useful for clients who need to sign documents during this time, whether for estate planning, real estate transactions, or otherwise.
Governor Andrew Cuomo’s order allowing remote notarization is currently effective through April 18, 2020.
The requirements to be complied with can be summed up as follows: (a) the person notarizing the document and the person signing the document must be on a video contemporaneously; (b) the signatory must present valid photo ID if not personally known to the notary; (c) signatory must verify they are presently in New York state; (d) the signatory must email or fax a copy of the document to the notary on the date signed; and then notary must sign and send back on that date, and follow-up with original signatures within 30 days of signing.
Donna Turetsky is a Partner in the Trusts and Estates Group at Certilman Balin, LLP.