A Remote Online Notarization closing can be quick, efficient, and stress-free—but only if the signer is properly prepared.

For title agents, this is where many delays begin. Most issues during a RON session are not caused by the documents. They come from unprepared signers—confused about the process, struggling with technology, or unsure of what is expected.

The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. With the right guidance, you can turn a potentially messy session into a clean, on-time closing.

Why signer preparation matters

RON is different from traditional in-person signings. There is no room for guesswork once the session starts.

If a signer is not ready, you may run into:

• failed identity verification
• connection issues mid-session
• confusion about document flow
• missing witnesses (if required)
• incomplete or incorrect signatures

Each of these can delay the closing or require rescheduling.

For small teams, that means lost time, added stress, and a poor client experience.

What a “prepared signer” actually looks like

A prepared signer is not just someone who shows up. They are someone who:

• understands the process
• has the right technology ready
• knows what documents they will sign
• has valid identification on hand
• is in a suitable environment for the session

When these basics are covered, the session becomes much smoother for everyone involved.

Step-by-step: How to prepare signers before the session

1. Set expectations early

Do not assume the signer knows what RON is. Most people do not.

Give a simple explanation:

• the signing will happen online via video
• a notary will guide them through the process
• they will need a camera, microphone, and internet connection
• the session will be recorded for compliance

Keep it simple and clear. This reduces anxiety and confusion.

2. Send a pre-session checklist

This is one of the most effective ways to prevent problems.

You can send something like:

• use a laptop or desktop if possible
• install or update Google Chrome
• test your camera and microphone
• ensure a strong internet connection
• have your valid ID ready
• sit in a quiet, well-lit space
• join the session 5–10 minutes early

A short checklist can eliminate most technical issues before they start.

3. Confirm ID requirements

Identity verification is a critical part of RON.

Make sure the signer knows:

• they must have a valid, government-issued ID
• the ID must not be expired
• the name on the ID must match the documents

Encourage them to test holding their ID up to the camera in advance to ensure it is clearly visible.

4. Review documents ahead of time

Whenever possible, give signers a chance to review documents before the session.

This helps:

• reduce questions during the signing
• prevent delays caused by confusion
• ensure the signer is comfortable with what they are signing

It also makes the session feel more organised and professional.

5. Address witness requirements early

Some documents require witnesses in addition to a notary.

Clarify:

• whether witnesses are needed
• how they will join the session
• whether they must be physically present or can join remotely

This is one of the most common causes of last-minute delays, so it is worth confirming in advance.

During the session: keeping things smooth

Even with preparation, the way the session is handled matters.

Keep communication clear

Use simple, direct instructions. Avoid technical language where possible.

Guide the signer step by step so they always know what is happening next.

Allow time for questions

Some signers will need reassurance. A few extra minutes for questions can prevent mistakes later in the session.

Watch for signs of confusion

If a signer seems unsure, pause and clarify. It is better to slow down than to risk incorrect execution.

Maintain a calm, structured flow

A well-paced session helps the signer stay focused and confident. This leads to fewer errors and a better overall experience.

Common mistakes to avoid

Even experienced title agents run into these issues when signers are not properly prepared:

• sending incomplete instructions
• assuming the signer understands RON
• not confirming technology setup in advance
• overlooking witness requirements
• rushing through the session

Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically improve your closing success rate.

How outsourcing RON improves signer preparation

Preparing signers takes time. For small teams, this can become a bottleneck.

Working with a professional RON service helps streamline this part of the process.

What a RON partner can handle

A provider like Superlative Signings supports title agents by:

• guiding signers before the appointment
• confirming tech readiness
• assisting with ID verification
• managing real-time questions during the session
• ensuring documents are properly executed

This reduces the burden on your internal team and helps prevent avoidable issues.

Better experience for your clients

When signers feel supported, the entire process improves.

They are more likely to:

• complete the session without delays
• feel confident in what they signed
• have a positive impression of your company

That matters for referrals, repeat business, and overall client satisfaction.

A quick checklist for title agents

To keep things simple, here is a quick internal checklist you can use before every RON closing:

• confirm signer availability and time
• send pre-session instructions and checklist
• verify ID requirements
• review documents for accuracy
• confirm witness setup (if needed)
• ensure signer understands the process

This small step can prevent most common issues.

When preparation makes the biggest difference

Signer preparation becomes especially important when:

• the signer is not tech-savvy
• multiple parties are involved
• documents are complex
• the closing is time-sensitive
• the signer is in a different location or time zone

In these situations, even small gaps in preparation can cause major delays.

Final thoughts

A smooth RON closing is not just about the platform or the documents. It starts with the signer.

When signers are prepared, the process becomes faster, cleaner, and more predictable. When they are not, even simple signings can become complicated.

For title agents, investing a little time in preparation—or working with a partner who handles it for you—can make a significant difference in both efficiency and client experience.

Need help preparing signers for RON closings?

Superlative Signings works with title companies nationwide to deliver smooth, well-managed Remote Online Notarization sessions. Their team helps prepare signers, handle technical setup, and guide each closing from start to finish.

Call (443) 248-3478 or email Brad@SuperlativeSignings.com to schedule your next RON closing or get support with signer preparation.