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What is the difference between an electronic signature and notarization?

Signing and Notarization

An electronic signature shows that a person meant to sign. A notary does a separate job. The notary checks identity and fills out a notary certificate. An e-signature alone does not meet a rule that calls for a notary.

General information

  • Federal law says a signature cannot be rejected only because it is electronic in many cases.
  • State law and the person getting the form decide if a notary, witness, or paper original is also needed.

Service steps to consider

  1. Checking each signature block.
  2. Asking the person getting the form which format is allowed.
  3. Keeping a signed copy that can be saved and printed.

360 Legal Forms offers online signing. It lists Online Notary as a separate add-on. Use the process that the form and the person getting it require. Customer support can explain website features and form fields, but it cannot select a form or legal terms, interpret a completed document, or explain how the law applies to a user's facts.

Important limits

  • Some documents fall outside parts of the federal E-SIGN rule. This article gives general information only. A licensed attorney can answer questions about a specific person's rights, risks, document choice, wording, or legal result.

Verified on September 1, 2026. Laws and service terms can change. Check the live source before acting.