RON 101

What is Remote Online Notarization?

Learn how RON is transforming the manual closing process into one that is virtual, secure, and 100% paperless.

 

 
RON-clear

What is a RON closing?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) is a digital closing where the entire process is completed electronically. Sometimes referred to as a "full eClosing," borrowers attend a virtual closing appointment with a notary (via webcam) to finalize any documents that require notarization. 

Because all executed documents and notarial acts are conducted electronically, there are no physically printed or signed documents, and no in-person signing appointment. RON closings are the most convenient and secure option for borrowers—giving them the flexibility to choose how, when, and where they sign their closing documents. 

The benefits of RON

calendar

More convenient for borrowers

Mortgage closings can happen from anywhere, at any time

decreased dwell time

Shorter signing appointments

Lending and settlement teams get instant access to the completed loan package

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Optimized closing process from start to finish

Automation means fewer errors and manual tasks

ROI

Maximized savings

Paper costs, including storage and shipping, are eliminated

security

Increased security & identity verification

Tools like KBA biometrics and MFA ensure secure transactions

What is the difference between hybrid, eNote, and RON?

Closing documents

  Hybrid  
Hybrid closings include both digital and wet-signed documents.

The borrower previews all closing documents digitally and eSigns the majority of them.

  eNOTE  
eNote closings include both digital and wet-signed documents.

The borrower previews all closing documents digitally and eSigns the majority of them, including the electronic promissory note (eNote).

  RON  
RON closings are fully digital—there are no physically printed or signed documents.

The borrower reviews and electronically signs the majority of documents prior to a (virtual) closing appointment.

Signing appointment

  Hybrid  
Any documents that require notarization are physically printed and signed during a short in-person closing appointment. 

  eNOTE  
Any documents that require notarization are physically printed and signed during a short in-person closing appointment. 

  RON  
Instead of attending an in-person signing appointment, the borrower meets with a notary virtually (via webcam) to electronically sign any remaining documents that require notarization.

RON STRATEGY

Getting started with RON

When you choose Snapdocs, you’re getting a partner who takes a thoughtful and tailored approach to RON. Whether you're just getting started, or ready to reignite your RON program—our team of experts are here with you every step of the way.

Here are the three primary steps we recommend:  

1

Make a plan

Specific goals and a detailed rollout plan are key to RON success. Our team will work closely with you to develop a strategy and pilot program tailored for high RON adoption. 

2

Identify eligible loans

Start with transactions ideally suited for RON, like refinances, non-owner-occupied (NOO) properties, mailaways, and POAs. 

3

Start scaling

Snapdocs guides you through each milestone of your RON strategy—giving your team the confidence to tackle advanced transactions and scale RON.

bubbleFAQs

What are the benefits of RON?

RON offers more flexible closing options for borrowers, shorter signing appointments, fewer operating costs, and increased security measures.

 

Which states have passed a RON law?

Find a list of the states that have passed a RON law here. Please note that the existence of a RON law does not indicate that a loan is eligible to close as a RON transaction.

 

How does Remote Online Notarization (RON) verify a borrower's identity?

RON uses a multi-step process to securely verify a borrower's identity:
  1. Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA): Borrowers must correctly answer a series of questions about their personal history, such as previous addresses or vehicles owned. This step is required for all RON sessions.
  2. ID Verification: Borrowers must upload clear images of the front and back of their government-issued ID using their smartphone or computer camera.
  3. Visual Check: During the virtual closing appointment, the notary performs a final visual verification of the borrower's appearance against their ID.

 

Get started with RON