Comparison

RIN vs RON: which one do you need?

Both let you appear before a notary on video. The difference is the document: paper signed in ink, or an electronic file signed on screen.

Ask about RIN About RIN

The short version

RON (remote online notarization) is all electronic. You sign a digital document on screen, the notary applies an electronic seal, and you get a notarized file the same session.

RIN (remote ink-signed notarization) keeps the paper. You sign a paper document in ink while the notary watches on video. The paper then goes to the notary, who completes the certificate and applies a physical stamp and seal.

How to choose

Ask the office that will receive the document. This decides it. Some accept an electronic notarization, and some only accept paper with a physical stamp or seal. A recipient that insists on paper rules RON out.

If the receiving office accepts electronic documents, RON is usually quicker, because nothing needs to be mailed. If it needs an original with ink and a physical seal, RIN is the one to ask about.

If you're not sure, ask the recipient what they accept before you book, or tell us who it's for and we'll help you work out which fits.

Side by side

Document: RON uses an electronic file. RIN uses paper.

Signing: RON signs on screen. RIN signs in ink on camera.

Seal: RON uses an electronic seal. RIN uses a physical stamp.

Timing: RON is finished in the session. RIN is finished when the signed paper reaches the notary, so shipping time matters.

Availability: RIN is a specialty service, quoted and confirmed by the desk before you book.

General information, not legal advice. Rules change, and the office receiving your document decides what it accepts, so confirm with them before you sign. Updated October 2026.

FAQ

Common questions

Is RIN more official than RON?

Neither is more valid in itself. Whether a receiving office accepts one or the other is up to that office, so ask them first.

Which is cheaper?

Prices are set by the desk and confirmed before you book. RIN adds shipping and a longer process, so it's often priced differently from RON.

Can I switch from RON to RIN after I book?

Tell us as soon as you learn the recipient needs paper. We'll confirm what's possible for your document and timing.

Need a paper document notarized by video?

Ask about RIN Call (908) 444-6373