Online Notarization vs In-Person — Which is Better for a Bill of Sale?

Notarization of a bill of sale is required in a handful of states — including Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, and West Virginia — and optional but sometimes recommended in others. When you do need notarization, you have two main options: online or in-person.

Online notarization services like Proof (formerly Notarize) allow you to complete the notarization process from any device, at any time, through a secure video session with a commissioned notary. The process typically takes 15–20 minutes once you're connected. These services charge $25–$50 per session, but the convenience factor is significant — no driving, no appointments, and 24/7 availability.

In-person notarization is the traditional option. Banks, credit unions, UPS Stores, and FedEx locations typically offer notary services, often free for account holders or for a small fee (usually under $15). The limitation is availability: you need to be physically present during business hours, and some locations require appointments.

From a legal validity standpoint, both approaches produce a valid notarized document. Online notarization is governed by state law, and as of 2024, the majority of US states have enacted legislation recognizing remote online notarization. A small number of states still require in-person notarization for specific document types.

BillOfSaleNow integrates with Proof for online notarization, so you can complete the entire process — from generating your document to getting it notarized — without leaving the platform.