Whether you need to finalize a last will and testament or establish a living trust, getting those documents properly notarized is a critical step. Traditionally, that meant scheduling an in-person appointment, driving across town, and waiting in a notary’s office. In 2026, there’s a better way: online notarization.
At Looking Glass Runners, we help individuals across the country notarize their wills, trusts, and estate planning documents entirely online — from the comfort of home, often in under 15 minutes. Here’s everything you need to know.
Can a Will or Trust Be Notarized Online?
Yes — in most U.S. states. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is now legal in over 40 states, and the number continues to grow. While estate laws vary by jurisdiction, a notarized signature on a will or trust is widely accepted and often required for the document to hold up in probate court.
It’s important to note that a notarized will and a witnessed will are different requirements. Many states require both witnesses AND a notary for a will to be valid. With remote online notarization, you can typically satisfy both requirements in one seamless video session.
Why Notarize Your Will or Trust Online?
- Convenience — No travel, no waiting rooms, no scheduling headaches. Connect via your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Speed — Most online notarizations are completed in 15 minutes or less.
- Security — RON platforms use identity verification, encrypted video sessions, and digital audit trails that are often more secure than traditional in-person notarizations.
- Accessibility — Ideal for elderly individuals, people with disabilities, travelers, or anyone who simply can’t make it to a notary office.
- Coast-to-Coast Coverage — Looking Glass Runners is a nationwide service. Wherever you are in the U.S., we can help.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before your online notarization session, have the following ready:
- A completed will or trust document — Do not sign it beforehand. You must sign in the presence of the online notary.
- Government-issued photo ID — Driver’s license, passport, or state ID. It will be verified digitally during the session.
- A device with a camera and microphone — Laptop, tablet, or smartphone all work.
- A stable internet connection — Video quality matters for identity verification.
- Your witnesses (if required by your state) — Some RON platforms allow remote witnesses; others require you to have them present on camera.
Step-by-Step: How the Online Notarization Process Works
Here’s what a typical online will notarization session looks like with Looking Glass Runners:
- Schedule your session — Visit lookingglassrunners.com and book an appointment at a time that works for you. Same-day sessions are often available.
- Verify your identity — Before the session begins, you’ll complete a quick digital ID check using your government ID and knowledge-based authentication (KBA) questions.
- Connect via video — You’ll join a secure, encrypted video call with a commissioned online notary.
- Sign your documents — You’ll sign digitally, on-screen, in real time, while the notary witnesses the signing.
- Notary applies seal — The notary affixes their digital stamp and signature, completing the notarization.
- Receive your notarized document — You’ll get a certified digital copy immediately, with a full audit trail for legal recordkeeping.
State-Specific Considerations for Online Will Notarization
While RON is broadly available, estate document laws vary by state. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Witness requirements vary — Some states require two witnesses for a valid will; others only require one or none.
- Self-proving affidavits — Many states allow you to attach a notarized self-proving affidavit to your will, which simplifies the probate process. RON is perfect for this.
- Trust documents — Living trusts, revocable trusts, and irrevocable trusts may all require notarization depending on your state and the type of property involved.
Not sure about your state’s rules? Our team at Looking Glass Runners can guide you through the requirements before your session begins.
Is an Online-Notarized Will Legally Valid?
Absolutely — when done correctly. Online notarizations performed by commissioned RON notaries are legally valid under state law and recognized by courts, financial institutions, and government agencies. The digital audit trail (video recording, identity verification logs, and tamper-evident seal) actually provides stronger proof of proper execution than a traditional paper-based notarization.
Ready to Notarize Your Will or Trust Online?
Don’t let logistics stand between you and your peace of mind. Whether you’re updating an existing will, creating one for the first time, or finalizing a living trust, Looking Glass Runners makes online notarization fast, secure, and completely hassle-free.
📋 Get started today at lookingglassrunners.com — nationwide coverage, same-day appointments available.
