Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What type of document might need an electronic notarization?

1. Personal letters

2. Legal contracts submitted online

3. Handwritten notes

4. Social media posts

The correct answer is: Legal contracts submitted online

The need for electronic notarization primarily arises with legal documents, particularly in the context of contracts that are submitted online. Legal contracts typically require a notarized signature to verify the authenticity of the parties involved, ensure that the individuals signing the document are doing so willingly, and confirm their identities. Electronic notarization facilitates this process by utilizing digital tools to perform notarial acts, such as verifying identities through video conferencing and confirming signatures electronically. This is especially important for documents that are executed remotely, allowing for a streamlined process that can often be completed quickly and securely. In contrast, personal letters, handwritten notes, and social media posts typically do not require notarization, whether electronic or otherwise, as they do not serve as formal or legal documents necessitating the same level of verification and authentication.