eNotarization Laws: Key 2025 Changes Every Lender Must Know
As the mortgage industry continues its digital transformation, eNotarization and Remote Online Notarization (RON) have become critical to modern loan closings. But with rapid adoption comes evolving regulations. In 2025, several important changes in eNotarization laws will directly impact lenders, title companies, and borrowers. Staying compliant isn’t optional—it’s essential for maintaining smooth digital closings and avoiding costly setbacks.
Here are the key 2025 changes every lender must know.
1. Georgia: New Journal & Training Requirements (Effective January 1, 2025)
Georgia has introduced stricter oversight of notarial practices, especially for real estate-related filings.
Mandatory Journal Keeping
Notaries must now keep detailed written or electronic journals when notarizing documents for “self-filers” (individuals filing property-related documents without using exempt professionals such as attorneys, mortgage lenders, or title insurance agents).
Entries must include:Name, address, and phone number of the filer
Type of ID presented and identifying details
Signature of the filer
Type of document notarized
Date, time, and location of the act
Mandatory Training
All notaries in Georgia must complete state-approved training upon both initial commission and renewal.
Impact on lenders: Georgia closings will require stricter verification and tracking, meaning lenders should confirm notaries are compliant before proceeding with transactions.
2. Ohio: Reciprocity Ends for Out-of-State Notaries (Effective April 4, 2025)
Ohio’s House Bill 315 removes reciprocity, meaning that out-of-state notaries can no longer perform Remote Online Notarizations (RON) for Ohio transactions.
Impact on lenders: Any Ohio property closing must now use a notary commissioned in Ohio. Multi-state lenders will need to carefully manage notary assignments.
3. Federal Spotlight: The SECURE Notarization Act of 2025
Although still in legislative review, the SECURE Notarization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1777) could reshape notarization across the U.S. by establishing federal minimum standards for interstate notarizations.
Key provisions include:
Setting baseline national rules while allowing states to maintain regulatory authority.
Prohibiting misleading practices (e.g., using the term “notario” to imply legal expertise).
Ensuring compliance with both state law and federal minimums.
Impact on lenders: If passed, this Act would reduce friction in multi-state digital closings, providing more uniformity across jurisdictions.
4. The Bigger Picture: Growing Adoption of RON
Even beyond Georgia and Ohio, the national trend continues: Remote Online Notarization is becoming the standard for digital mortgages. RON enables borrowers to sign and notarize documents via secure video calls, offering speed, convenience, and efficiency. More states are refining their frameworks to support this digital-first model.
What Lenders Should Do Now
Update Compliance Policies – Ensure your internal teams and notaries are trained on Georgia’s journal and training rules.
Adjust Closing Workflows in Ohio – Use Ohio-commissioned notaries only.
Track Federal Legislation – Keep an eye on the SECURE Act—it could simplify multi-state transactions.
Invest in RON-Ready Platforms – Digital mortgage adoption is accelerating; lenders who adapt early will have the competitive edge.
Final Thoughts
2025 is a turning point for eNotarization laws. Georgia is enforcing stricter accountability, Ohio is tightening its rules on reciprocity, and federal lawmakers are pushing for nationwide standards. For lenders, this means one thing: compliance must stay front and center. By proactively adjusting to these changes, lenders can continue to deliver seamless, secure, and fully digital closing experiences to borrowers.
