Remote Career Guides Archives | Work from Home Happiness https://workfromhomehappiness.com/category/find-a-remote-job/remote-career-guides/ Get Hired. Be Happy. From Home. Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:28:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7 https://workfromhomehappiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/cropped-wfh-happiness-favicon-1-32x32.png Remote Career Guides Archives | Work from Home Happiness https://workfromhomehappiness.com/category/find-a-remote-job/remote-career-guides/ 32 32 How to Become A Remote Online Notary https://workfromhomehappiness.com/how-to-become-a-remote-online-notary/ https://workfromhomehappiness.com/how-to-become-a-remote-online-notary/#respond Mon, 03 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000 https://workfromhomehappiness.com/?p=10922 How to become a remote online notary? Great question. Here at Work From Home Happiness we’re all about remote-friendly career paths. In fact, we’ve written a number of in-depth career guides for aspiring remote workers. After all, we want you to find a remote job you’ll love, not just any ol’ remote job. 💛 And, in […]

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How to become a remote online notary so you can work for yourself - from home!

How to become a remote online notary? Great question. Here at Work From Home Happiness we’re all about remote-friendly career paths. In fact, we’ve written a number of in-depth career guides for aspiring remote workers. After all, we want you to find a remote job you’ll love, not just any ol’ remote job. 💛

And, in recent years, notary work has become increasingly popular among remote workers over the last few years.

Formerly, notary work was not remote friendly. However, thanks to the pandemic Remote Online Notary (RON) became a thing.

Currently, more than 40 states have laws that allow remote notaries.  And being a notary is just one of many wfh jobs out there. But, it’s not something you can just jump into. Instead, you have to follow a number of steps in order to become a remote online notary. 

So, without further ado let’s get into it. 

What Is A Notary? 

Before learning how to become a notary, it’s important to discuss what a notary is.

First, a notary is technically known as a Notary Public. These are state-appointed persons who act as witnesses during the signing of important documents. But, they do much more than that! 

According to the National Notary Association, 

“A Notary Public is an official of integrity appointed by state government to serve the public as an impartial witness in performing a variety of official fraud-deterrent acts related to the signing of important documents.”    

National Notary Association

As previously mentioned, notaries play an important role during the signing of documents. So, people turn to notaries when signing official documents. 

Now, technically anything you sign can be notarized (including your second grader’s field trip permission slip) BUT not everything needs to be signed. However, commonly notarized documents fall in categories like:

  • Real Estate
  • Legal
  • Financial
  • Healthcare 
how to become a remote online notary so you can work for yourself from home.
public notary stamp and seal example

Additionally, OneNotary includes commercial leases, employment contracts, legal affidavits, passport applications, and mortgage documents as some of the most commonly notarized. 

What Can A Notary Do?

Again, a notary can notarize just about any signed document. I’ve had a notary present during the signing of my parents’ wills and at the closing of my home’s refinance. Heck, some states will even let notaries marry couples! 

But, there are also things notaries cannot do. For example, they cannot certify copies of vital records like birth and death certificates. 

What Work Does A Notary Perform? 

Next, let’s look at the specific job functions of a notary. First and foremost, notaries verify identity. They make sure the people signing documents are who they say they are. In other words, notaries check government issued IDs to prevent fraud.

Secondly, notaries double check that documents are complete and ready to be signed. Then they ensure all parties are willingly signing and are not being forced into anything. Similarly, they’ll make sure that each person understands what it is being signed and are competent enough to knowingly sign. 

After all named parties have signed, the notary will fill out their notary certificate. This will include the notary’s signature along with their stamp or seal. It looks something like this: 

a SAMPLE OF A PUBLIC NOTARY STAMP AND SEAL FROM THE STATE OF IDAHO

Finally, the completed certificate with stamp or seal is provided with the signed documents. That’s it – the notarization is complete! 

How Much Does a Notary Public Make? 

When discussing how to become a remote online notary the topic of pay inevitably comes up.  Notaries cannot just charge any amount for their services. Instead, most states set limits on what a notary can bill based on the document they are notarizing and the number of people signing.

For example, Florida allows notaries to charge the following fees per signature: 

  • $10 – acknowledgments
  • $10 – Jurats
  • $10 – Verbal Oath/Affirmation 
  • $25 – RON (Remote Online Notary)

Additionally, Florida Notaries can charge extra for travel. “How much extra?,” you ask. Well, that’s up to the individual notary. The State of Florida does not set limits for notary travel expenses. 

To sum it up, notary earnings vary state to state. However, notaries are able to charge per signature or oath and may also charge reasonable travel fees. Remember, some states even allow notaries to officiate weddings. For example, Florida Notaries can charge $30 to perform a marriage. 

Who Can Be a Notary Public? 

Now, can anyone become a notary? Again, the answer to this question largely depends on which state you live in. However, the majority of states have general notary guidelines like:

  • 18 years or older
  • Legal resident of the state 
  • Read and write English 
  • No felonies
  • No misdemeanors involving fraud or deceit

Additionally, some states have mandatory training and/or exam requirements. For example, the State of Florida requires 3 hours of notary training followed by a passing score on a test. 

So, Does That Mean I Can’t Become a Notary With a Criminal Record? 

Not necessarily. Some states will not allow individuals with felonies on their record to become a Notary Public. Period.

Other states, like Florida, allow notaries with felony convictions as long as that person has had their civil rights restored. Additionally, misdemeanors that involve fraud, dishonesty, or deceit can prevent you from becoming a Notary Public in many states.

Remember, every state has unique rules regarding its notaries. Always double check your state’s notary guidelines for the most up-to-date information. 

Can I Work From Home As a Notary Public? 

Absolutely! In fact, how to become a remote online notary is a pretty popular question these days. And, thanks to the pandemic, the majority of states now have laws that allow its notaries to work online. 

So, what’s the difference between how to become a notary and how to become an online notary? 

First, an online notary is typically referred to as an RON which stands for Remote Online Notary. 

A Remote Online Notary can notarize the same documents as a traditional Public Notary. Similarly, RONs perform the same tasks previously mentioned but entirely online. To do their jobs, remote notaries use special technology to complete the notarization process. This allows all parties to appear before one another and verify identity without physically being in the same room. 

Sample of what remote online notary software is like courtesy of gcpay

How Do I Become A Remote Online Notary? 

Many states require you to become a traditional Public Notary first. Then you can apply to become a RON. Some states have additional training requirements for RONs (like Florida). Remember, default to your Secretary of State website for the most current direction for RONs and Notary Public information.

We’ve also created a State Notary Resources Google Sheet with Helpful Links to each state’s Notary Websites as well as whether they allow RON:

What Schooling Do I Need to Be A Remote Online Notary? 

Finally, some states require training for notaries. Other states simply ask you to pass an exam. However, almost all states have free training or study guides aspiring notaries can use to satisfy notary requirements. 

Please be cautious of “online notary schools” that teach you to become a notary in your state. Most states do not have mandatory training requirements. And those which do often provide all the training you need for free. 

Florida, for example, provides its own Notary Education Program. The three hour course is the only training you’ll need and it’s 100% free!  From there, Florida offers an additional Remote Online Notary training – also free of charge.

What if My State Doesn’t Have Training Requirements?

Furthermore, some states have zero guidance for how to become a notary. For example, notaries in Alabama are appointed by county-level probate judges.

To be considered, Alabama residents fill out an application and secure a $25,000 bond. From there, it’s up to each notary to develop the skills necessary to be successful. The State of Alabama website simply points residents to its Secretary of State website. 

It can be pretty confusing on how to become a remote online notary depending on which state you live in! Before you jump in, please visit your Secretary of State Website. A google search can result in hundreds of online training programs or notary schools that charge you for training you can receive for free from your state! 

What Fees Are There To Become A Remote Online Notary?

Great question! Again, every state has different filing fees for its notary publics and RONs. For example, the State of Florida charges a $39 application fee for its notaries.

Additional expenses remote online notaries have include:

  • Notary Stamp or Seal
  • eSeal
  • Digital Certificate
  • State Approved RON software to perform remote notary services 
  • Surety bond for online notarizations

Additionally, notaries may opt for errors and omissions insurance or a Notary Journal to keep track of all their official acts. Errors and omissions insurance protects you in the event you make a mistake while providing remote online notary services.

Again, and I hate to keep saying this, but your state will let you know what supplies are required and which are optional!

How To Become a Remote Online Notary 

How to become a remote online notary so you can work for yourself - from home!

Lastly, let’s put it all together so you have a good idea of what it takes to become a notary in your state. Generally, these are the steps needed to learn how to become a remote online notary:

Meet Your State’s Requirements

See if you meet your state’s notary requirements, i.e., age and criminal history. Note: Some states disqualify individuals with felony convictions or anyone with fraud convictions

Complete Training (if Necessary) & Pass Certification

Determine if your state mandates notary training. Remember, you might not have to pay for training if your state (like Florida) provides it free of charge. Additionally, you will likely have to become a Public Notary first before you can become a RON.

Research if your state allows Remote Online Notary (RON)

Not all states allow RON. Use our handy State Notary Resources sheet to see if yours does. If so, complete necessary training to also become an RON

Complete Notary Application

After you complete training and/or certification fill out the application to become a notary in your state and pay the associated fees. Additionally, purchase a surety bond. Optionally, buy Errors & Omissions insurance. Please check your state’s Secretary of State Website for surety bond requirements and approved vendors!

Gather Necessary Notary Supplies

Compile a list of necessary supplies as a notary and RON

Notary Public and RONs need specific supplies like stamps, embossers, certificates, and software. Only purchase what you need – your state will tell you which supplies are needed. Additionally, RONs may only use state-approved vendors for remote notarization software. Examples include Nexsys, NotaryCam, SafeDocs, etc.

Market your in-person and Remote Online Notary services 

Once your application is approved and you have all the necessary equipment -Congrats! You’re now a Notary Public and/or Remote Online Notary. Now it’s time to market your services.

How To Become A Remote Online Notary and Start A Home Business 

Finally, it’s time to start working as a remote online notary. Remember, you are now self-employed. As such, you need to learn how to be self-employed from home.

Additionally, invest in marketing classes or at-home business training. We recommend Notary Training Institute to help you build a successful and thriving Notary Public business both locally and online. Additionally, Notary Training Institute helps students expand their Notary business to include additional revenue streams like Signing Agent. 

And, if you ever have additional questions on how to become a notary, they provide tons of resources and support. There’s even a Notary Training Institute Members Only Private Community. It’s a highly-recommended resource for anyone looking to start a grow a remote online notary business.

Happily, 

Ashlee

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Online Data Entry Jobs https://workfromhomehappiness.com/online-data-entry-jobs/ https://workfromhomehappiness.com/online-data-entry-jobs/#comments Mon, 07 Feb 2022 13:55:00 +0000 http://workfromhomehappiness.com/?p=91 Online data entry jobs are one of the more popular work from home opportunities out there. Many people prefer home-based work where they don’t have to pick up the phone — and data entry jobs certainly fit the bill. Although online data entry jobs are one of the most sought after home-based opportunities, there’s not […]

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Online data entry jobs are one of the more popular work from home opportunities out there. Many people prefer home-based work where they don’t have to pick up the phone — and data entry jobs certainly fit the bill.

Although online data entry jobs are one of the most sought after home-based opportunities, there’s not always a ton of options out there.  And sometimes, an advertisement may turn out to be a scam.

But, don’t worry, there are several companies that are known for hiring remote workers for data entry jobs. Curious to know where all the legitimate online data entry jobs are? Read on to find out!

Want to learn more about online data entry jobs? Check out this guide. Plus, learn about 7 real companies that hire home-based data entry pros.
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What is involved with Online Data Entry Jobs?

It’s pretty simple: Online data entry jobs require you to key data from one source into another. The data you key can be letters, numbers, or a combination of the two — it just depends on the project you’re working on.

What Does it Take to Be Good at Data Entry?

To make the most of your efforts, you’ll need to be able to type quickly and accurately. Depending on the type of data entry involved, you may need to be comfortable using your keyboard’s number pad.

In addition to fast and accurate keying abilities, you’ll also need to be able to read quickly. You might be pulling data from a spreadsheet, document, or even handwritten notes.

Many online data entry jobs are paid by the number of correct keystrokes. So the greater your ability to quickly read/scan something and key it, the more money you’ll make.

Where Can I Find Legitimate Online Data Entry Jobs?

As popular as online data entry jobs are, there aren’t as many out there as you might think. In fact, it’s rather difficult to find companies that routinely have data entry jobs available. But, here are 7 top companies that offer legitimate home-based data entry jobs:

1. Axion Data

First up, let’s learn about Axion. This company is a well-known source of online data entry jobs. However, Axion is rarely hiring. In fact, its hiring page states:

There are currently no openings for data entry operators; however, that can change as we get new clients.  Our business is very cyclical, and there is no guarantee you will ever be contacted; nevertheless, you may choose to register with us for future consideration.

– Axion data hiring page

Also, Axion Data asks applicants to pay a registration fee. The fee structure is $5.00 for 60 days, $7.00 for 120 days, and $10.00 for one year. After registering, you are placed in Axion’s database.

Keep in mind, this fee does not guarantee work. In fact, Axion has incredibly low turnover. It’s unlikely you will every be contacted.

In other words, apply at your own discretion. Personally, I would skip this one. The fees are low, but it’s still a waste of time and money. Also, Axion says the require a fee to discourage thousands of unqualified people from applying. Even so, paying to apply for remote work is unnecessary. There are tons of companies that won’t charge you a single penny.

My suggestion? Skip it. Save your time and money. Instead, focus your attention on no-fee companies with online data entry jobs.

2. Xerox

Learn more about online data entry jobs at Xerox.

Xerox has a virtual workforce program that includes a number of different career opportunities. A popular options include data entry, verification, and image tagging.

Keep in mind, Xerox isn’t always hiring. However, its jobs are updated often. Get in the habit of of checking the Xerox career page. Chances are, you will eventually find a data entry position posted.

As a bonus, there are plenty of virtual jobs outside of data entry. In fact, Xerox employs more than 8,000 home-based employees. I encourage you to check them out all the options here. You might find other virtual jobs outside of data entry that appeal to you.

As an added bonus, the majority of Xerox’s virtual positions are full-time employee ones, not freelance or independent contractor. This means you would be benefits eligible.

3. Telus International

This platform was officially launched in July 2021. Before then, it was Lionbridge (and before that it was Virtual Bee!).

There are several online data entry jobs here. First, you must create a profile and fill out contact information.

Next, take qualification tests. After that, you can accept paid assignments. Keep in mind, pay rates vary quite a bit.

Additionally, there are other online remote jobs to consider. Options include data annotation, online rating, data enrichment, and maps analysis. To get started, visit the AI Community Page.

4. OneSpace

OpenSpace (formerly CrowdSource) has on-demand online data entry jobs. In fact, there are two main sources of data entry work. These include Categorization and Classification.

To get started, submit a freelance application. After that, connect your PayPal account and pass qualification tests. You’re ready to access work on demand!

5. MicroWorkers

Next up, let’s look at MicroWorkers. There are data entry jobs here. However, you must sort through a lot of non-data entry jobs to find them.

Jobs here are broken down into small tasks. For example, simple tasks can take just a minute. Keep in mind, pay rates reflect the amount of time spent on each task.

As a result, most tasks pay between ten cents to four dollars. To get started, sign up for an account. Next, take MicroWorkers tests. Congrats! You’re ready to accept paid online data entry jobs.

6. Remotasks

Next, we have Remotasks. This is a newer site for online data entry jobs. Even so, it has a steady stream of new projects to complete. There are even long-term projects to consider!

When you’re ready, create a Remotasks account using Google or Facebook. Next, check your inbox. You will receive a welcome message with a quick-start guide. Keep in mind, some accounts can take up to 48 hours to complete. So, don’t worry if the welcome email doesn’t land in your inbox right away.

After that, you will complete an onboarding checklist in your account. From there, it’s time to start working on paid projects.

7. Appen

Personally, Appen is my go-to for online data entry jobs. For starters, there is a wide variety of data tasks to complete. Popular options include labeling images, moderating content, and categorizing social media.

Additionally, Appen frequently lands on the FlexJobs top companies with remote jobs list.

As a bonus, there are many other online jobs available too. For example, you can apply for long-term projects or part-time work.

To start quickly, simply sign up for an account. Then, select a project you want to work on. Finally, keep going! Now, you’re ready to work as much or little as you want whenever you want.

Remember, accuracy is important. Appen tracks all tasks. Consistent accuracy opens up even more, higher-paying projects.

Find More Online Data Entry Jobs with FlexJobs

Lastly, I want to mention FlexJobs. I regularly use FlexJobs to find real remote jobs to share, including online data entry jobs.

In a single search, I found more than 1,200 data entry jobs. Check out the screenshot below:

Hundreds of real online data entry jobs are listed on FlexJobs.
Real data entry jobs found on flexjobs

Please note, FlexJobs is a membership site. You will have to pay for a subscription to access listings.

Fortunately, FlexJobs has subscriptions ranging from one week to one year. Even better, you can save 30% on your membership by using FlexJobs Promo Code SAVE30.

Your membership gives you unlimited access to all jobs and free skills tests. You can also create a profile to get found by remote companies.

FlexJobs screens every company and job listing on their site. In other words, you don’t have to worry about scams!

Sign up today and use coupon SAVE30 for instant savings on all subscriptions.

Beware of Online Data Entry Jobs Scams

Finally, I want to touch on data entry scams. Unfortunately, there are plenty of scammers in the work from home world of data entry. In fact, scammers will pose as representatives of the companies listed above. They will reach out to you through social media or via email.

Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to identify scammers. For starters, do not apply to data entry jobs on Facebook. Instead, go directly to the hiring pages of the companies listed above.

Additionally, do not respond to out-of-the-blue emails from recruiters. Companies only reach out via email to candidates after they’ve applied – not before!

Lastly, go with your gut. If you discover a job that sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

For extra safety, default to companies on this list or sign up for FlexJobs. They take the guesswork out of applying for real online data entry jobs.

Happily,

Ashlee Anderson, CPCC

PS This post contains affiliate links. Read my disclosure statement for more information.

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