New Law Delivers Seamless Transactions to New York

S2271/A3225, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on November 22, 2024, removes an 80-year-old outdated requirement that often slowed down or stopped the acceptance of notarized documents from out of state.

 Previously, New York was the only state in the nation to require notarized documents completed out-of-state to include additional paperwork—a Certificate of Conformity—before being accepted. The Certificate of Conformity required consumers and businesses to hire an attorney to be completed, a costly and time-consuming experience that hindered business transactions and delayed consumers' access to critical documents.

New York has championed initiatives to modernize and improve state services, led by Governor Hochul’s commitment to making the state more affordable and livable for all New Yorkers. With this change, New York has eliminated another unnecessary burden, ensuring that residents can access online notarization services when and where it works best for them.

Thanks to the leadership of New York Senator John Liu (Senate District 16) and Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (District 33), sponsors of the legislation, this law delivers peace of mind to those visiting, living, or working in New York. 

“This legislation removes 80 years of red tape for anyone in need of out-of-state notarized documents in the State of New York. Streamlining this process allows both individuals and businesses to conduct transactions more efficiently, saving time and money,” said Senator John Liu.

“I am proud to have sponsored Assembly Bill A3225, that simplifies the acceptance of out-of-state notarized documents in New York, and makes life easier for New Yorkers, entrepreneurs and our businesses,” said Assemblyman Clyde Vanel. “The bill cuts through unnecessary red tape and reinforces New York’s role as a leader in modernization and efficiency.”

Proof would also like to acknowledge and thank our partners Carvana, the Electronic Signature & Records Association (ESRA), New York Mortgage Bankers Association, New York State Land Title Association, TechNet, Trust & Will, and Zillow for supporting this legislation over the past two years.

"Today we celebrate completion of a small but significant piece of NY Legislation from Bill Sponsors Senator Liu and Assemblyman Vanel. Acceptance of legally executed and notarized documents, regardless of their state of origin, will now expedite the loan closing process for out of state consumers purchasing a home in New York,” said New York Mortgage Bankers Association President Micheal Pulver.  

Digital solutions like online notarization are designed to connect consumers and businesses to critical services despite the challenges and demands of everyday life. Thanks to this newly enacted legislation, New Yorkers can seamlessly connect to online notarization services 24/7 from Midtown to Rochester.