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Is RON Still Worth It in 2026? The Honest Truth for Remote Online Notaries


Is RON Still Worth It in 2026? Remote Online Notarization (RON) has evolved rapidly over the last few years. It’s hard to believe we’re already in 2026, and with each new year, the RON landscape continues to shift.


If you’re already a remote online notary or thinking about becoming one, the reality today looks very different than when many notaries first entered the space. RON platforms have changed, competition has increased, compliance expectations are tighter, and importantly- the way notaries earn money has shifted.


In this post, I’m breaking down what you need to know about Remote Online Notarization in 2026: what’s changed, what still works, what’s getting harder, and how notaries should be positioning themselves moving forward.



The Reality of RON in 2026 (Not the Hype)


When Remote Online Notarization first surged during the pandemic, it felt like the Wild West. Demand was massive, platforms were onboarding notaries quickly, and many people believed that simply becoming a RON early would guarantee long-term success. In 2026, that reality has changed.

Remote Online Notarization is no longer a novelty, it’s becoming standard practice. That means more structure, more rules, and more competition.


For current remote online notaries, this means you can no longer rely on just being “a RON” as your differentiator. Your platform experience, turnaround time, professionalism, compliance record, and ability to build relationships now matter more than ever.

For those looking to become a remote online notary in 2026, the opportunity is still there but it’s no longer a gold rush. You need a clear strategy, proper training, and realistic expectations.


Money in RON: What’s Changed in 2026

Let’s talk money, because that’s a major factor for most notaries.

In the early days of RON, especially with Remote Online Loan Signings, some notaries were earning very high payouts per signing. Demand was sky-high, and there were far fewer trained remote online notaries available.

Now that more notaries have become certified and onboarded onto RON platforms, average loan signing payouts have come down in many markets. The field is more competitive.


That said, there has been a bright spot: in many states, the maximum fee for RON General Notary Work (GNW) has increased to around $25 per notarization, which is a positive shift for notaries who rely on general notarial work. If you’re unsure about your state’s allowed fees, the National Notary Association (NNA) offers a helpful fee chart, and your Secretary of State’s website remains the most authoritative source.

Even with changing pay, there are still solid earning opportunities in RON-especially if you:

  • Work directly with attorneys, lenders, or signing services

  • Build repeat business with consistent clients

  • Specialize in certain document types or workflows

My biggest financial takeaway for RON notaries in 2026 is diversification. Don’t rely solely on one type of RON work. Consider adding RON referrals, offering translation services, or getting into remote apostille services. Multiple income streams help protect you from market fluctuations.


RON Platforms in 2026: What’s Actually Happening

Platforms play a huge role in a remote online notary’s success. A few years ago, many notaries were only on one or two platforms. In 2026, the most successful remote online notaries are typically approved on multiple RON platforms.


If you rely on just one platform, you’re more vulnerable. If that platform changes its pay, updates its requirements, or shuts down, your income could be impacted overnight.

A real example of this occurred on January 1, 2026, when Pavaso, a long-standing enterprise RON platform, closed. Notaries who depended solely on Pavaso suddenly had to re-onboard elsewhere, which likely disrupted their income.


At the same time, new RON platforms are emerging- such as Notaron, which has competitive pricing and a different approach to online notarization. (If there’s interest, I can do a deeper review of Notaron in a future post or video.)

Overall, remote online notaries who are doing well in 2026 tend to:

  • Be approved on multiple RON platforms

  • Understand each platform’s strengths and ideal use cases

I also expect more platform consolidation and increased competition in the coming years which means adaptability is critical.

Mortgage Rates & Refinance Work in 2026

Mortgage rates have a direct impact on Remote Online Notarization work, especially for notaries involved in loan signings.

If mortgage rates decrease even slightly, refinance activity typically increases. More refinances mean more loan packages, more digital workflows, and more opportunities for remote online notaries connected to title, escrow, or signing services.

However, you don’t automatically benefit just because rates shift. You benefit if you’re positioned to capture the work.

That means:

  • Being active on the right RON platforms

  • Being on the right signing services like Signing Order or Snapdocs

  • Maintaining relationships with lenders or title companies

  • Building a reputation as a reliable Remote Loan Signing Agent

Keeping an eye on mortgage trends can give you valuable insight into where your RON workload may be headed.

Who Should Become a Remote Online Notary in 2026?

If you’re considering becoming a remote online notary, here’s an honest assessment.

RON is a great fit if you:

  • Are comfortable with technology

  • Can stay organized and detail-oriented

  • Want flexible, location-independent work

  • Are willing to invest in training and equipment


RON is not a great fit if you:

  • Struggle with new software

  • Get overwhelmed by compliance rules

  • Expect fast, easy money with little effort


Becoming a remote online notary isn’t something you should jump into casually. It’s worth watching “day in the life” videos from experienced RONs to see if this is truly something that aligns with your lifestyle, especially since there are upfront costs involved.


Where RON Is Headed in 2026

Looking ahead, I believe Remote Online Notarization will continue to grow in adoption both among businesses and everyday consumers especially as more states fully embrace RON.

I also expect to see more AI automation integrated into RON platforms, which could streamline workflows, improve signer experiences, and reduce administrative friction for notaries.

This doesn’t mean notaries will be replaced , but it does mean the role of a remote online notary will continue to evolve.


Is RON Still Worth It in 2026?

Is RON Still Worth It in 2026? Yes, but with realistic expectations.


Remote Online Notarization is still a viable and valuable opportunity in 2026, especially for notaries who are strategic, adaptable, and willing to diversify their services.


If you’re already a RON, I’d love to hear what platforms you’re using and what’s changed for you lately.

If you’re thinking about becoming a remote online notary, let me know what questions you still have, I create a lot of content on this topic and am happy to go deeper.

 

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only. While I strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, I cannot guarantee that all information is current, complete, or correct. Always do your own research and verify directly with the companies mentioned before signing up or accepting any field inspection work. Additionally links above may contain affiliate commissions.

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