does a will have to be notarized in massachusetts

DOES A WILL HAVE TO BE NOTARIZED IN MASSACHUSETTS FULL

Accordingly, anyone notarizing or witnessing the execution of documents in this virtual environment will need to adhere to the specific requirements of the RNA in order to make sure that all documents are properly executed. The RNA mirrors the provisions of legislation regarding the traditional notarization of documents. The RNA allows for remote or virtual execution and notarization of documents that would otherwise require a notary and/or witnesses to be in physical proximity of the person executing the document. Given current events, the RNA is designed to facilitate such notarization in order to promote health and safety while observing restrictions and social distancing recommendations. Given current events, the RNA is designed to facilitate such notarization in order to promote health and safety while observing restrictions and social distancing recommendations.ĭuring this time of mandatory social distancing, the RNA is critical in executing documents that require notarization, including documents prepared in connection with estate planning and real estate instruments. The so-called “Remote Notarization Act” (“RNA”) is effective immediately and will expire and sunset three days after the state of emergency declaration relative to COIVID-19 is lifted. This legislation became necessary in light of the fact that in-person notarization has always been the standard for notarizing wills and other estate planning documents and those instruments effecting title to real estate such as deeds and mortgages.

DOES A WILL HAVE TO BE NOTARIZED IN MASSACHUSETTS FULL

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has signed into law Chapter 71 of the Acts of 2020 entitled “An Act Providing For Virtual Notarization to Address Challenges Related To COVID-19.” A link to the full text of the Act can be found here. Legislature Provides Necessary Tools to Facilitate Execution of Wills and Trusts and Real Estate Transaction Documents

Does a will have to be notarized in massachusetts