A handy feature of digitized documents is the ability to sign them electronically. With e-signatures, you can now conveniently sign multiple documents digitally whether you are transacting business with a client, selling real estate, or settling an estate. The wide application breadth is wide and could include legal documents, insurance claims, or a simple purchase contract. With this feature, you can create PDFs of your documents that include your electronic signature.

One type of document widely used for all sorts of transactions is ‘word document’. Word documents allow you to easily create simple Word processing documents such as letters and reports. Other benefits include writing in different fonts and sizes and using tables, borders, and bullet formatting to reduce monotony and increase productivity.

Ever wondered whether you could use e-signature when signing word documents? The straight answer is YES! It definitely is possible. However, if you do not know how to do it, you are not out of luck, as there are ways you can go about getting it done. 

Here is a guide that will teach you how to sign a word document so that you can easily do business anywhere in the world.

How to electronically sign a Word document in Windows or MacOS

Electronically signing a Word document is easy, allowing anyone to view the signature and verify it is authentic. Signatures can be used on documents of any length and help sign legal or other important documents or agreements. They can also be used as an electronic form of a handwritten signature, which is useful if you do not have access to a scanner or digital camera.

Step 1: Open Your Document

Open your document in Microsoft Word by double-clicking on its icon in Finder. If you don’t have Word installed on your Mac, download it from Microsoft’s website and install it before continuing with this tutorial.

Step 2: Select the Text You Want to Sign

Select all the text in the document by pressing Command+A (or Ctrl+A). Alternatively, select the text you want to sign and press Command+C (Ctrl+C) to copy it to the clipboard.

Step 3: Open Preview

Open Preview by clicking on its icon in Finder or searching for “Preview” in Spotlight search. When opened, click File > New From Clipboard to open a new document containing only the text copied from Word (or select File > Import from Clipboard instead).

How to create an electronic signature yourself using Word

You can also create an electronic signature yourself. You can use any text editor to do this, but Microsoft Word makes it easier because you can use the Change Signature command in the Mailings tab of the Ribbon.

To create your own electronic signature, follow these steps:

1. Open a document that you want to sign.
2. Click the Mailings tab on the Ribbon and then click Change Signatures in the Signing section of the Tab. The Signatures and Security dialog box open with the Signature tab displayed by default (see Figure 1).
3. In the Form section at the top of the dialog box, choose Electronic Signature from the drop-down list (see Figure 2).
4. Click OK to close the dialog box, then click OK again to close Word’s main application window (if necessary).
5. A new document is created with a blank signature form that includes fields for typing your name (or initials or other identifiers), signing date, and any additional information you want to be included as part of your electronic signature (see Figure 3). Type whatever information you need into these fields, using lettering that’s similar to what’s used for printed signatures; for example, use capital letters when signing legal documents or lowercase letters when signing personal correspondence

How to insert an image of your signature into a Word document

It’s possible to insert an image of your signature into a Word document. This is useful if you need to include a scanned or electronic copy of your signature with your document.

1 Open the document in Word.

2 Click on the Insert tab at the top of the screen. It’s in the top-left corner of the window.

3 Click on the Picture option from the menu that appears, which will open up the Insert Picture dialog box.

4 Navigate to where your image file is stored, select it and click Open. The image will appear at the top of your document window, ready for you to edit it as required.

5 Right click on the image and select Format Picture from the menu that appears. This opens up another dialog box where you can adjust things like its size and color before clicking OK to apply these changes.

Other examples of digital signatures

Electronically signing a document is convenient and easy, and the process is secure, safe, and simple. Electronic signatures also eliminate the need to create expensive infrastructure to store these documents after they are created. Getting an electronic signature from your business partners or clients is a vital part of the internet marketing process and something many businesses overlook.

While there are many options for sending electronic signatures, we found that the above three providers stand out from the rest. 

• Signing a word document is a breeze with DocuSign, and they have some additional features that many other companies don’t have. 
• PandaDoc is an excellent choice if you need to track your signature requests, and DocuSign also has this feature. However, PandaDoc is still in the lead regarding easy-to-use forms and tracking features. 
• Although DigiDoc did not perform well regarding UI/UX standards or overall design, it still performed just as well as its competitors in terms of ease of use and overall experience.

Final Thoughts

The use of digital signatures for word documents is becoming more common. It can be accomplished via any form of electronic signature, not just online forms. In fact, you might have signed your phone or other electronic devices before or may even be using one now. It’s a technology that hasn’t been widely deployed in the real world, but it’s gradually gaining traction.

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A digital signature is a cryptographic technique that allows someone to sign a document or message in a way that can be verified by others. The signature is created using a private key, which is known only to the person who created it. The signature can be verified by anyone who has the public key, which is freely available. Digital signatures are used for many purposes, including authentication, proof of ownership, and non-repudiation. 

There are many ways to create a digital signature, but most of them involve the use of special software or hardware. In this article, we will explore ways to create digital signatures free of charge. Electronic signatures are legally binding in many countries, and there is no reason why you should not take advantage of this technology.

How Electronic Signatures are Created

Digital signatures are created using a mathematical algorithm that generates a unique code based on the content of the document or message being signed. This code, called a digital signature, can be verified by anyone who has the public key. The person who created the signature uses their private key to sign the document. The signature is then appended to the document, and the recipient can use the public key to verify that it is valid.

There are many different algorithms that can be used to create a signature image, but the most common is the RSA algorithm. This algorithm is used by most web browsers and is the basis for many security protocols. 

Other algorithms include the DSA algorithm, which is used by the US government, and the ECC algorithm, which is used by some email providers.

Benefits of Digital Signatures

There are many benefits to using digital signatures, but the most important is that they provide a way to verify the identity of the person who signed a document. This is especially important for contracts and other legal documents. A digital signature can also be used to prove that a document has not been tampered with, as any changes will invalidate the signature.

Another benefit of digital signatures is that they can be used to create a kind of electronic notary service. This allows someone to sign a document and then send it to another person, who can verify the signature and date. This can be useful for digital documents that need to be signed by multiple people, such as contracts.

Creating a Digital Signature Free

There are many ways to create a digital signature free of charge. One way is to use a web-based service such as DocuSign. DocuSign allows you to sign documents online electronically and then send them to others for signature. This is one of the best options when you need a free signature generator. 

Another way to create a digital signature free of charge is to use a software program or a signature generator such as GPGTools. GPGTools is an open-source and online tool that allows you to encrypt, decrypt, and sign files using the Gnu Privacy Guard (GPG) software.

Finally, if you want to create a digital signature without using any special software or services, you can use a free online signature generator such as the Digital Signature Tool from SSLMate. This online signature maker allows you to sign files using your browser, without having to install any software.

As you can see, there are quite a number of ways to create your electronic signature online free of charge. Electronic signatures are a convenient and secure way to sign documents, and there is no reason why you should not take advantage of this technology.

How to Verify an Electronic Signature

Digital signatures can be verified using the public key. In most cases, the public key is freely available, and you can use it to verify the signature. In some cases, you may need to download the public key from a website or service. 

Once you have the public key, you can use it to verify the signature by running it through a digital signature verification tool.

There are many digital signature verification tools available, but one of the simplest is the Online Signature Verifier from SSLMate. This tool allows you to verify signatures using your browser, without having to install any software.

Are Free Digital Signatures Legitimate?

Digital signatures are a legitimate way to sign documents electronically. In most cases, a digital signature is just as legally binding just as a handwritten signature. However, it is always best to check with the person or organization you are dealing with to be sure.

Conclusion

Digital signatures are a powerful way to authenticate documents and messages. They are also a convenient way to sign documents without having to print them out and sign them by hand.

In this article, we have explored ways to create digital signatures free of charge. We have also looked at how to verify digital signatures using a public key. We hppe that with this information you can create your own signature without a problem. 

Digital signatures are a type of electronic signature that can be used to authenticate the identity of the sender of a message or the signer of a document. A digital signature can be used to verify that the person who signed a document is indeed the person they claim to be and that the document has not been altered in any way since it was signed.

Creating a digital signature is not as difficult as it may sound. In fact, there are only a few simple steps involved in the process. First, you will need to create a key pair consisting of a public and private key. The private key should be kept confidential, while the public key can be shared with anyone.

In this article, we will go through the whole process in detail and show you how to create a digital signature using different methods. However, let us first take the time to understand some important aspects.

What Are Digital Signatures?

As we mentioned earlier, digital signatures are a type of electronic signature that can be used to authenticate the identity of the sender of a message or the signer of a document. A digital signature can be used to verify that the person who signed a document is indeed the person they claim to be and that the document has not been altered in any way since it was signed.

Digital signatures are based on cryptographic algorithms that use a pair of keys, one public and one private, to sign and verify the authenticity of a message or PDF document. The private key is known only to the owner and is used to generate the signature. The public key, on the other hand, can be freely distributed and is used to verify the signature.

When a document is signed with a digital signature image, it is mathematically linked to the signer’s private key. This means that if the document is altered in any way, the signature will no longer be valid. Similarly, if someone tries to forge a signature, it can be easily detected as it will not match the signer’s public key.

Digital signatures are often used to sign electronic and legal documents such as emails, contracts, and invoices. They can also be used to sign software programs and computer files. In fact, digital signature images are now being used more and more as a replacement for traditional handwritten signatures. You can find a free downloadable electronic signature to use as well. 

Why Use Electronic Signatures?

There are many reasons why you would want to use an electronic signature instead of a traditional handwritten signature. First of all, electronic signatures are much more convenient. They allow you to digitally sign documents without having to print them out or fax them.

Second, electronic signatures are more secure. As we mentioned earlier, they are based on cryptographic algorithms that make it very difficult for someone to forge a signature. Additionally, electronic signatures can be easily verified and authenticated.

Third, electronic signatures are legally binding in many countries. In the United States, for example, the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (ESIGN) of 2000 states that “a contract or other record relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form.”

Ways to Create a Digital Signature

There are different ways to create an electronic signature. In this section, we will show you how to create you own digital signature using three different methods:

Method 1: Using a Software Program

Method 2: Using an Online Service

Method 3: Using a Hardware Token

Using a Software Program

The first method is to use a software program to create your digital signature. There are many different software programs that can be used for this purpose. Some of the most popular ones include Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word documents, and OpenOffice.

To create a digital signature using a software program, you will first need to generate a key pair consisting of a public and private key. You can do this using a program such as OpenSSL or GnuPG. Once you have generated the key pair, you will need to export the public key in ASCII format and save it to a file.

The next step is to open the Word document that you want to sign in to the software program that you are using. Once the document is open, you will need to find the place where you want to insert your signature.

Once you have found the place where you want to insert your signature, you will need to follow the instructions for your particular software program. In Adobe Acrobat, for example, you will need to click on the “Sign” button and then select “Add Signature.” in the signature line.

After you have followed the instructions for your particular software program, you will be asked to select the file that contains your public key. Once you have selected the file, you will need to enter your passphrase.

After you have entered your passphrase, your signature will be inserted into the document.

Using an Online Service

The second method is to use an online service to create your digital signature. There are many different online services that can be used for this purpose. Some of the most popular ones include DocuSign PandaDoc and EchoSign.

To create an online signature using an online service, you will first need to create an account with the service. Once you have created an account, you will need to upload the document that you want to sign.

After you have uploaded the document, you will need to follow the instructions for your particular service. In DocuSign, for example, you will need to click on the “Sign” button and then select the place where you want to insert your signature.

After you have followed the instructions for your particular service, you will be asked to select the file that contains your public key. Once you have selected the file, you will need to enter your passphrase.

After you have entered your passphrase, your signature will be inserted into the document.

Using a Hardware Token

The third method is to use a hardware token to create your digital signature. There are many different hardware tokens that can be used for this purpose. Some of the most popular ones include YubiKey and SafeNet eToken.

To create a digital signature using a hardware token, you will first need to insert the token into your computer. Once the token is inserted, you will need to follow the instructions for your particular token. In YubiKey, for example, you will need to click on the “Sign” button and then select the place where you want to insert your signature.

After you have followed the instructions for your particular hardware token, you will be asked to enter your passphrase. After you have entered your passphrase, your signature will be inserted into the document.

How Safe is an Electronic Signature?

Digital signatures are very safe. In fact, they are safer than traditional signatures. This is because digital signatures are based on cryptography. Cryptography is the science of encrypting and decrypting data.

Encryption is the process of transforming readable data into an unreadable format. Decryption is the process of transforming unreadable data into a readable format.

Cryptography is used to protect data from being read by unauthorized individuals. It is also used to verify the identity of the individual who signed a document.

Digital signatures are based on two types of cryptography: asymmetric cryptography and hashing.

Conclusion

Digital signature creating is a simple process that can be done using a variety of different methods. The most important part of the process is to make sure that you keep your private key safe and secure. You can choose the best method, for creating electronic signatures, that works best for you.

If you are a small business owner operating in a fast-paced and highly connected world, you know how crucial it is to get a job done quickly and accurately to keep the workflow moving forward.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, notaries were a rarely sought service. However, this has all changed, not only as a result of the pandemic but also due to our constant need for information. Notaries nationwide can now help people in other states get their documents notarized. The process is known as remote online notarization.

The growing need for remote online notarization services gave rise to new opportunities for remote and mobile notaries. Since then, more states have opened up their laws to allow this practice due to its ease and security compared with traditional in-person notarization.

What is Remote Online Notarization, and How Does It Work?

Remote online notarization (RON) is a secure, efficient, and cost-effective way of notarizing documents. It also allows you to access the documents you need for virtually any purpose quickly. With RON, there are no longer any restrictions on when or where you can get your documents notarized. 

Remote online notarizations have many advantages over traditional in-person notarizations, including safety, convenience, and time-saving benefits. Personal appearance is not required for the parties to be present to sign a document; thus, instantaneous signing is possible using this method. Using this technology, you can access your certified notary from anywhere and at any time.

Remote online notarization has proven to be a lifesaver for many. The main reason why it has become prevalent is that it allows you to seek notarization without having to leave your home. This is ideal for people who need documents signed but don’t want to deal with making an appointment or driving to the office. Remote online notarization allows you to click away from your desk and still accomplish everything you need.

Performing online notarizations is a straightforward, simple process, and it does not require you to have any special computer or software. However, it’s best if your document is already in an electronic file format—so if you don’t have an electronic copy of the document(s) that you need to have notarized, scan them first, then use the scanner to create the .pdf or .jpg files that you need.

Which states allow online notary in 2022?

If you’re a resident of one of these states, you may use the Remote Online Notarization to notarize documents. These are the 41 states that have adopted permanent RON laws:

Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

State laws regarding remote notarization vary from state to state. If signers are unsure of their state’s regulations, they should consult with their county or town clerks’ offices. Additionally, notaries must familiarize themselves with the applicable state law before an online notarial act because each state has specific laws and regulations determining how RON services must be carried out.

Which states allow temporary online notarization in 2022?

The American Bar Association’s Legal Technology Resource Center (LTRC) keeps track of developments related to remote online notarization in each state. Here are the five states that allow some temporary online notarization in 2022: 

• Alabama (per Senate Bill 275)
• Georgia (per Executive Order 06.30.21.02)
• Maine (through June 23, 2023, per Executive Order 37 FY 19/20)
• Mississippi (per Executive Order No. 1467); and
• Rhode Island (temporarily allows online notarization)

States that don’t allow online notary in 2022

While remote online notarization services are allowed in 41 states, five states don’t allow online notary in 2022. These states are as follows:

• Connecticut. Temporarily authorized remote online notarization services due to COVID-19. However, this authorization has expired as of July 1, 2021.
• California. It does not allow any remote online notarization services at this time.
• Delaware. There is, however, currently nothing in Delaware statutes that prohibits an individual or business from using a remote notary from states who permit remote notarization)
• District Of Columbia. It does not allow any remote online notarization services at this time.
• Massachusetts. It temporarily authorized remote online notarization services due to COVID-19. However, this authorization has expired as of December 15, 2021.

What Documents Can Be Notarized Remotely

Remote notarization can be used for a range of purposes, such as but not limited to:

• Getting a document apostilled or legalized by the Department of State
• Obtaining a copy of your birth certificate from the Vital Records office in your state
• Obtaining copies of divorce decrees or marriage certificates from the appropriate county clerk’s office.

However, each state has laws regarding what can and cannot be initially notarized remotely. Some states will allow us to do everything online, while others require the clients to visit their local county clerk and sign with their physical signature, so be sure and check with your local government before you begin your project.

How to Become a Licensed Remote Online Notary

To become a licensed notary in any state, you need to pass an exam that consists of questions on notarization rules and ethics. Once you complete the test, you are eligible to apply for a permit. You can then perform your duties as long as there is an agreement between parties involved in a transaction or signing ceremony. 

The documents to be signed can vary from public documents like city council resolutions to private documents such as deeds and wills. Some parts of the state that can conduct remote notarization include Texas, Virginia, and Alaska

The SECURE Notarization Act

We already know that in the past, notarization was done in person, and it can be done remotely using a webcam and a document scanner.

The SECURE Notarization Act (H.R. 6147) was introduced to Congress on March 18th, 2015, by Representative Ted Poe of Texas and Representative John Conyers of Michigan to extend the power of notaries public to sign documents and perform other official acts remotely electronically. This means a person can sign a document from their computer, tablet, or smartphone. The act was passed by the Senate on September 27th, 2017, and was signed into law by President Trump on October 12th, 2017.

This act ensures that every document is valid and legally binding, even remotely signed. It also ensures that the signer’s identity cannot be faked or forged.

The SECURE Notarization Act has many benefits for business owners and consumers. Businesses can conduct transactions with people in other countries more efficiently, allowing them to expand their markets globally. Consumers will also benefit as they no longer need to deal with complicated paperwork when buying.

Final Thoughts

Remote online notarization is an innovative technology that allows a document to be notarized without being physically present. This technology can potentially change how business is done locally and globally.

The future of remote online notarization is promising, and it has already been adopted by various countries, and companies and some states in the U.S. This new technology has numerous advantages: it saves time, money, and resources, increases user convenience, eliminates fraud, and reduces environmental impact.

Importance of electronic signature software in payment collection

Companies not using payment collection with the best electronic signature software have surely missed the opportunity to improve customer satisfaction and cash flow. Some companies still collect payments by sending invoices through email or postal mail. This process consumes longer time which could increase non-payment. 

In fact, a survey of 20 million invoices revealed that 64% of small companies regularly experience late payments. Such a case is a distraction from your focus on expanding your business. Can you imagine how small companies would perform with these late payment collections? Surely, after a year or two, they file for bankruptcy or perhaps a change of work status. And this could be avoided in a payment system that automates online document signing.

When companies collect payments with an electronic signature, digital collection payments allow them to be paid right away. This payment collection is beneficial for companies that frequently need to collect payments or service fees because technological integrations will enable them to collect a one-time payment or save a signer’s payment method for use in the future.

What are examples of digital payment collection?

• Universities accepting student payments for school and matriculation fees
• Software companies asking for membership fees
• Manufacturers requesting transaction fees for purchased items
• Construction companies that request payments to obtain licenses
• Government offices requesting vehicle registration, birth certificate, and other fees
• Nongovernmental organizations requesting monetary donations (signer enters the amount to donate)
• Firms in law, accountancy, or insurance are asking for service fees

What are the benefits of digital payment collection?

1. Lowers transaction costs

Most transactions are made with paper checks. Small companies use paper checks 80 to 90% of the time compared to large companies that use 50% only. Payments made on paper are inconvenient for both companies and suppliers. Most companies and their suppliers find collecting and processing paper checks costly, costing roughly $13 simply to submit an invoice and $5 to process a single check. Paper-based payment systems are not only pricey but also cumbersome as a check’s clearance could take up to two weeks. Your business can save money by integrating electronic payment options into the process of payment collection.

2. Saves time and resources

Companies save time by implementing electronic payment solutions for their staff, clients, and management. The conventional method of processing supplier payments takes a long time. With the help of a modern digital payment collection, many time-consuming, repetitive procedures that burden accounts payable departments may be automated, providing the business’ accounts payable department more time to concentrate on crucial, value-adding business areas.

3. Minimizes errors

Companies are ensured that they are paid the appropriate sum if they take steps to reduce errors and eliminate inaccuracies. Digital collection payment allows them to either accept one-time payments of a fixed amount based on a formula entered by the signer or to save the signer’s payment method for future charges or recurring payments.

4. Speeds up payment collection

Compared to traditional payment methods such as writing a check, the transfer of funds is significantly accelerated through electronic payment methods. With the best electronic signature software, users can make payments at any time, from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need to visit banks. 

5. Provides the tightest security

Digital payment collections are significantly more time and resource-efficient in addition to being more secure than their more conventional, paper-based equivalents which use a handwritten signature. Companies’ financial transactions can be made more securely using a variety of e-payment methods and systems. Although digital solutions can still be vulnerable to hackers and security breaches, the majority of electronic payment providers also have a large number of data professionals and engineers working to keep payment information secure.

To supplement the tightest security companies’ payment collection is the use of online document signing through electronic signature software.

Is there a way to collect signatures online?

Yes. The lengthy wait times typically associated with handwritten signature requests can be avoided with a digital signature because they can be performed in just a few clicks. You may even be able to collect online signatures through email or text message if the electronic signature app installed supports these methods of data transmission.

Below are some of the best electronic signature software that runs for free.

1. DocuSign

One widely used electronic signature app is DocuSign which offers a free account option. The software runs on different mobile devices that run on either iOS, Android, or Microsoft. It is user-friendly and intuitive. It interfaces with many other third-party apps to allow for more incredible customizability. Additionally, APIs allow you to create tailored interfaces with your current systems, and DocuSign prioritizes security for both data storage and electronic signatures. 

2. Eversign

Eversign is a web-based app that provides a complete document management system in addition to managing electronic signature software without charge, which means that sending documents for unlimited signature requests is an essential process with the tool. Additional notable features include secure document storage, a document editor, the capacity to manage documents for various businesses, and personalized templates. The contact management tool is especially helpful for companies that don’t need a full CRM system yet but still need to keep track of document signers’ contact information.

3. SignWell

SignWell is also a web-based electronic signature software that includes one sender seat, one template, and three documents per month in the free version, along with reminders and notifications for unsigned documents. With SignWell, all of the documents a business will send and receive are protected by an encrypted SSL connection, even though this platform is free.

4. Smallpdf

Smallpdf is a mobile device app for android and iOS operating systems. This is popular because users do not need to log in or use a password to access this digital signature software. With Smallpdf’s function, signing documents online is made simple by dragging them onto the page and clicking the “sign” button. One may include their initials, an additional text field, checkboxes, and more with this PDF signature tool. Signers are secured with eIDAS-compliant timestamps and a documented chronology that tracks activity.  

5. GetAccept

GetAccept is also electronic signature software for mobile devices that enables CRM solutions to streamline the record-keeping process. Create signature sequences and add mandatory signing fields to documents to make sure that people sign them in the right order. Also, the program makes sure that your documents follow all rules for signing, like eIDAS, ESIGN, and UETA.

The following digital signature software is also highly recommended for added security and features.

1. PandaDoc

For $19 per month, award-winning electronic signature software PandaDoc, available in web and mobile apps, is noted for its streamlined user interface and ease of use. In addition to its electronic signature solution, its document management platform includes drag-and-drop form integration, automated processes, and comprehensive audit histories. The other options are CRM, payment, and file storage app integrations. PandaDoc is a viable option if you’re searching for a complete solution for managing completed documents and contracts, all with an integrated electronic signature capability. 

2. HelloSign

Combining customization, client service, and flexible and affordable pricing, Web-based electronic signature software HelloSign offers a distinctive perspective on the electronic signature market for $15 per month. With HelloSign‘s robust API, one may embed and completely brand signing options in one’s documents. The software offers a variety of extensions and connectors and complies with all significant international electronic signature legislation.

3. Adobe Sign

For $14.99 per month, Adobe’s robust electronic signature software platform allows you to control signing procedures from any location and on any device. The Adobe Sign product line is known for its wide range of third-party integrations, including Microsoft, Salesforce, Workday, and others, as well as its focus on international compliance. Adobe Sign’s features support both electronic and digital signatures.

4. Signaturely

Signaturely is a web-based electronic signature software service that allows users to digitally sign documents online quickly and legally for $10 per month. From producing the electronic signature to adding the final signature to the document, Signaturely assists the signers throughout the entire signing process.

5. SignNow

SignNow‘s user-friendly mobile app has received numerous recognitions. Due to the user-friendly design, extensive connectors, and narrowly focused functionality, it is a dependable choice for small enterprises. However, the primary USP of SignNow is its cost. It is without a doubt the most affordable choice on this list, costing $8 per user per month for unlimited document sending and templates. Only $15 per user per month is charged for the “Business Premium” plan, which has more features. Over 40% of Fortune 1000 firms utilize SignNow’s apps for Android and iOS for a good reason. There isn’t a better option if you want to use this electronic signature software on your phone.

Are documents signed online legally binding?

Electronic signature software makes it simple to sign documents with a single click. But do the documents signed online legally binding? Yes. The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, or the “E-Sign Act,” declares that electronic signatures are entirely valid and enforceable. They will endure in court.

From pictures of a signature affixed to an electronic document to PKI-based signatures, electronic signatures cover the complete spectrum of technologies and solutions. This variety of capture methods includes:

• Agreeing the “I Agree” button on a website
• Using your finger to sign on a device
• Filling out an online form by typing in your name or PIN
• Using a secured electronic signature software

Are electronic signatures safe and legally binding?

Compared to paper-based signatures, electronic signatures are more secure. Electronic signatures are supported by numerous levels of security procedures, making them impossible to forge and tamper with, while paper-based signatures are vulnerable to both.

Electronic signatures are therefore recognized by international laws and have legal force. Electronic signatures are recognized in Europe under the Electronic Identification, Authentication and Trust Services (eIDAS) Regulation along with three levels of security: standard, advanced, and electronic.

How do electronic signatures ease payment collection?

The business can make a collection payment request by attaching the Payments tag to any agreement before the other party signs it. The recommended electronic signature above details the functionality of this feature. The additional party inputs payment information to complete the transaction using a credit card, debit card, bank transfer, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The agreement envelope can then be closed with an authorized payment, and the payment record will be recorded in the agreement’s audit trail. Once the electronic signature is inputted, a payment gateway prompts the completion of the payment processes.

Key takeaways

In today’s fast-growing companies, digitizing the entire transaction calls for smart workflows, automatic payment collection, and signer identity verification. All of these are essentially embedded in the use of electronic signature software.

Everything seems convenient and easy now that we all live in a digital and fast-paced era. Who would have thought we could make our own distinctive signature with just a few taps or clicks on the screen?

Who would have thought that what used to be signed and written with our hands as a sign of approval could now be done online without much effort?

Gone are the days when you need to fax a document to affix your signature. You will no longer have to travel to where the physical document is just to put your handwritten signature. Or, worst, take a picture of your signature, adjust the brightness and contrast, and copy/paste it onto the document above your name. People should be aware that today, no matter where you are at the moment, your signature can now go wherever it needs to be without necessarily requiring your physical presence to sign documents. 

The growing significance of electronic signatures

Whether you need to sign a pdf document, excel files, or other document type, you can easily do so, thanks to e-sign tools and apps. Companies are now adopting digital signatures as they’re a fast, easy, and secure way to conduct business. Since so many people work remotely and use mobile devices like laptops and smartphones, it’s more convenient to sign online documents than traditional in-person signing.

Moreover, digital signatures make it easier for everyday users to conduct business at their own pace. You and your partners can save money on printing and mailing costs. As more businesses move to online signatures, signing parties can expedite their document signing process. Thanks to free online documents signing apps, completing critical transactions is now more accessible and efficient.

Are digital signatures really safe and secure?

Using digital signature software and e-sign agreements is arguably safer than handling physical documents. Digital agreements, for example, are much more challenging to manipulate than physical documents.

Online agreements have multiple levels of security, including digital certificates and electronic records, which create a verifiable audit trail. A pdf document signing app should almost always be more secure than conventional alternatives. 

For the consumer’s privacy and protection, service providers use their own technology to protect your signature and signed document. They have their own system that operates solely on the privacy and protection of the personal data you will provide. 

Is it legally binding? Definitely, yes! Electronic signatures are legal, trusted and lawfully binding, and it has the same weight of consent and approval as handwritten signatures. In fact, it is now being used in all industrialized countries worldwide. 

Is there a free application for signing documents online?

It can take a long time to esign documents without an esign app. Before sending a digital document to someone, you have to open it, change its format, print it, sign it, scan it back into your computer, and change its format again.

Electronic signature apps can help here. They let you complete signature requests, esign pdf, and send documents in a few seconds, making the transaction faster and easier for both parties. 

Electronic signature apps are free, allowing you to access them using a free trial in a given amount of time. However, you can upgrade your subscription to a premium version. Paying for a premium account is always reasonable because it comes with many related features that are also useful but not available to free trial accounts. 

Is there a free way to electronically sign PDF documents?

Typically, signing PDF documents or PDF convert documents require more than one step, such as printing, signing, and scanning. But new technologies have made it possible for businesses to stop using paper and have made it easier and faster to sign unlimited documents with a digital signature. 

A PDF file or Portable Document Format is one of the most commonly used types of documents developed by Adobe, Inc. It is widely used in transactions in individuals, businesses, corporations, and government offices. This type of format is commonly used when you use your electronic signature. When you need to sign documents online, electronic signature providers usually ask to upload the document online in a, although not limited to, PDF file. 

How To Make an Electronic Signature

There are plenty of ways for you to make your electronic signature. Some mobile applications and websites provide online document signing services and other related features. The electronic signature provider will instruct you to upload the document, sign the document online and download the completed document. You can upload documents in these formats: PDF, Word, IMG, TXT, XLS, and more. 

Top 10 free online document signing apps

We have included web and mobile apps for all the document signing apps on our list, and most offer a variety of pricing plans. There are even some free plans available for basic needs. As of June 2021, the prices listed here are accurate.

1. Adobe Sign

Designed for professionals, Adobe offers a cost-effective Acrobat PDF Pack with e-sign starting at $9.99 per month, which can be upgraded to Adobe Pro for only $14.99. Adobe Pro includes password security, mobile editing, and much more.

The 7-day free trial of Adobe Sign includes e-signing functionality, digital signature requests, specialized form fields, and payment handling features.

Note: Adobe offers a free tool to complete forms called Adobe Fill & Sign. It’s a free PDF tool that allows unregistered users to fill out and sign PDF forms.

Key features:

• Part of the Adobe Document Cloud suite
• Web and mobile versions
• Extensive base of users

2. DocuSign

DocuSign is a leading e-signatures and online contracts app on our list, making it one of the most well-known. As a result, all users will benefit from it since it ensures that all signing parties know how to use it.

With various pricing options, DocuSign offers a simple basic plan that you can scale for deeper functionality. Additionally, you can sign documents online, collect payments, and comment in real time. You can even try out DocuSign for free for 30 days without using a credit card.

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Web and mobile versions
• Extensive base of users

3. OneSpan Sign

OneSpan Sign‘s clients include NASA, IBM, and BMW. According to reviews, users prefer OneSpan’s security features and extensive compatibility with Salesforce and Dynamics CRM.

Certain features are available for demo (contact the company directly). Professional and Enterprise plans are available. There is no free or basic plan at OneSpan Sign, but their Professional plan offers plenty. Various implementation options, extensive security, and generous user limits are offered.

Key features:

• Professional and Enterprise plans
• Web and mobile versions
• Enterprising pricing by volume

4. HelloSign

HelloSign is a Dropbox subsidiary and newcomer to the e-signature space. Dropbox users enjoy the simple and relatively familiar interface, while HelloSign is more streamlined and sophisticated. There is also a limited free plan and extensive integration with Google.

Using HelloSign’s basic plan, you can request digital signatures for free if you handle a few monthly documents. Paid plans offer upgraded features like data storage and single sign-on. Using this integration, you can customize and analyze data in various ways. Even developers can test virtual signature integration in their projects before committing.

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Limited free plan available
• Web and mobile versions

5. PandaDoc

PandaDoc is an independent option that emphasizes efficiency and automation. With plenty of integrations with Salesforce and a versatile free plan, it emphasizes streamlining workflows.

There are no limitations on features like digital signature requests and uploads with PandaDoc’s free plan. Customize your forms and use templates with the Essentials level ($19 per month per user). The Business level offers more functionality ($49 per month per user) and flexible pricing.

Key features:

• Emphasis on automation 
• Limited free plan available
• Available in web and mobile versions

6. SignNow

Several companies are using SignNow, such as Xerox, CBS Sports, and GoFundMe. As a secure, cloud-based contract management platform, it is owned and operated by Boston software company airplane.

SignNow’s API support and extensive security compliance make it a viable option for enterprises, offering robust mid-level plans. The SignNow platform supports multiple users, customizations, and templates, irrespective of the plan’s price.

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Available in web and mobile versions
• Geared toward ease of use

7. Eversign

Eversign has built a reputation for customer service and user-friendliness. A solid understanding of how customers use their platform is evident in their interface and options, designed with multiple industries and applications in mind.

Also, they provide a free plan that offers streamlined features and handles multiple users differently. Small and midsize teams can use Eversign’s professional plans (starting at $39.99 per month). The basic plan costs $9.99 per month (renewable for $7.99 annually).

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Limited free plan available
• Available in web and mobile versions

8. SignRequest

Eversign is known for its excellent customer service and user-friendliness. Their platform’s interface and options reflect a solid understanding of how customers use it, as they cater to multiple industries and applications.

In addition, they offer a free plan with streamlined features and a different way of handling multiple users. A professional plan from Eversign (beginning at $39.99 per month) is suitable for small and mid sized teams. The monthly fee is $9.99 (renewable for $7.99).

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Limited free plan available
• Available in web and mobile versions

9. SignEasy

SignEasy is one of the most affordable paid options, and we also include its cheapest basic plan. With excellent security, mobile support, workflow features, and offline signing, it costs $8 per month.

Upgrade to the Pro plan to gain unlimited requests, tons of software integrations, and client management tools ($15 per month for a single user). Business and enterprise owners can scale up more affordably than their standard plans.

Key features:

• Variety of subscription options
• Web and mobile versions
• Geared toward ease of use

10. pdfFiller

In 2009, pdfFiller was launched to help professionals work with Adobe Acrobat and PDF documents. Since then, they have expanded into document and form management, building a client list that includes Netflix and Pepsi. Also, they offer a comprehensive feature list, starting with dynamic PDF documents support.

PDFFiller’s website shows how you can upload files directly or via cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox. Besides offering a basic functional plan at an affordable price ($8 per month for Basic), it also offers a more robust premium plan ($15 per month per user).

Key features:

• Part of the airSlate Business Cloud
• Web and mobile versions
• Stresses ease of use

Key Takeaways

With more paperwork being signed digitally, knowing which e-signature service is exemplary for you is imperative. PandaDoc is a suitable choice if you need an easy-to-use free plan. On the other hand, Eversign is a helpful tool for adding users to a workplace setting, and OneSpan Sign offers enterprise-level features.

It is the diversity of electronic signatures apps available that makes this rise in digital signatures so appealing. Our list shows that any user has many options and features regardless of scale or budget. 

 

Back in the 90s and early 2000s, most documents were signed by handwritten signatures. But now that we live in the digital era, where everything is driven by technological advances, even signing documents has gone digital. For instance, when signing PDF documents, all that is needed is an electronic signature.

Electronic signatures make signing a document less hassle and take less time. So instead of the typical process, which involves printing, signing, scanning, and emailing back the document to your boss or colleague, all you have to do now is to affix your digital signature and email the online documents back to the requesting party. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to digitally sign any PDF document and create a standard PDF file that anybody can access. You can do it on any platform you prefer: Windows, iPad, Mac, iPhone, Chrome OS, Linux, or Android. 

What Are Electronic Signatures?

Electronic signatures, commonly known as e-signatures, are symbols or other digital data attached to electronic documents and are accepted by the “signer” or recipient of those signatures. Usually, e-signature images appear as images of physical signatures. 

An electronic signature is a legally enforceable way to sign off on electronic documents. It is efficient, secure, and verifiable; hence it can replace a handwritten signature in virtually any process. So rather than signing with a pen, you can conveniently sign via email as the entire signing process is done online.

In what ways is an electronic signature helpful?

Moving to a digital signing workflow will increase operational efficiency and make business easier for your customers. An electronic signature needs to do more than just let customers, employees, and business partners sign documents electronically from anywhere, at any time.

With electronic signing, you can save time, reduce the need for paper-based processes, and sign a Microsoft word document, for instance, from anywhere on any device. Here are some other ways an electronic signature proves to be helpful:

It is widely accepted in many industries and countries.

Without digital signatures, people will have difficulty letting a person sign important word documents, especially if that person is overseas. With an electronic signature, no matter where your clients are located, they can opt to sign documents from their phones or tablets, thanks to e-signature. 

It is valid, safe, and secure.

With automatic independent verification and security controls, you can be sure your documents will reach the right people. The Knowledge Based Authentication (KBA) process keeps your clients’ records secure by requiring independent verification for certain IRS forms like the 8878 and 8879. 

It removes handwritten signatures.

You can integrate your e-signature solution with other tools, like SmartVault, and eliminate the need to print, scan, or meet face-to-face. You will be notified when all parties have signed the document, and SmartVault will place it back in the exact location.

 These are some types of documents you can sign electronically:

• internal compliance
• new hire documentation
• NDAs letters of intent
• expense reporting
• sales contracts
• purchase orders
• vendor agreements
• invoice processing

What is the difference between a digital signature and an electronic signature?

In some sense, electronic and digital signatures are not precisely the same, although the terms are often used interchangeably.

Using a digital signature protects your private signing key from unauthorized use and enables you to verify that you have seen the document and authorized its use. Despite its security, it’s also quite complicated.

An electronic signature, however, consists of an image of your signature overlaid on top of PDF documents. It can be done using several apps, and you’ll often be asked to do it when people send you documents to sign. People who receive a PDF document with a digital signature usually don’t know what to do with it. It is an enormous technological leap for many businesses to accept signed documents via email instead of faxing them.

Is it legal to use electronic signatures?

Indeed, yes – electronic signatures are recognized in all U.S states and are granted the same legal validity as a written signature and paper documents. Whether for business or personal transactions, e-signatures are considered legal, trusted, and lawfully binding. 

Examples of legal documents where an electronic signature can be used include:

• Vendor/Supplier agreements
• Real Estate Contracts
• Liability Waivers
• Sales Contracts
• Financial Documents
• Permission Slips
• Offer Letters
• Rental/Lease Agreements
• Parental Consent
• Non-disclosure Agreements

 

Five Best E-Signature Software Providers

1. DocuSign Signature

DocuSign can handle electronic notarizations and signatures, and contract lifecycle management workflows among the leading companies in this space. As part of the software, you can incorporate payments within contracts and capture consent with a click. Incorporating its software into DocuSign Agreement Cloud expands the benefits to other process stages, such as the preparation and management of agreements post-signature.

Moreover, the system supports mobile apps, custom fields, reusable templates, multiple-user routing, privacy and data residency policies, and audit trails. 

How do you electronically sign a document or a PDF with DocuSign eSignature?

1. Login to your free trial account for DocuSign eSignature.
2. Click on New > Sign a Document and then upload the electronic or pdf document.
3. Click Sign and then follow the steps to sign documents.

2. HelloSign

Since Dropbox acquired HelloSign in early 2019, the company now provides Dropbox users with e-signature options. Its product suite includes e-signatures, API integration, mobile forms (HelloWorks), and online faxing (HelloFax). It offers unlimited signature requests, templates, a mobile app, audit trails, email support, and multiple language options (22 languages supported).

Signatures can be typed, drawn, or uploaded, and unsigned documents can be automatically reminded in an email notification. With drag-and-drop signature blocks, checkboxes, and date fields, you can enhance the signer fields in documents.

How to use HelloSign?

1. Upload the document to the website.
2. Make yourself the only signer and place the field where you want to sign.
3. Please save the file to your device or share it with others.

3. Adobe Acrobat Sign

Through its Acrobat Sign offering, Adobe provides the ability to collect e-signatures via the portable document format (PDF). The software allows users to sign Acrobat PDF documents from any device, including mobile devices and desktop computers. Users can also scan and upload a PDF file using Adobe Scan’s free mobile app without downloading software or creating an account.

You can track and manage documents from Acrobat, Microsoft Word, and other applications and see each document in real-time. You can receive notifications when documents are signed, and you can create reusable templates for frequently used forms.

How do you add a signature line and sign a Word or PDF document using Adobe Acrobat Sign?

1. Open the PDF document or form that you want to sign.
2. Select Sign from the Toolbar. You can also select Fill & Sign from the right pane or Tools > Fill & Sign.
3. Type your text in the blue box.
4. Select your signature or initials from the Toolbar by clicking the Sign icon.
5. Use the arrow keys to move the placed signature or initial. You can resize or delete fields using the tools in the field toolbar.

4. EverSign

In EverSign, you can digitally sign through drawing, typing, uploading, or system-generated signatures. You can safely store a signed document using EverSign and set auto-expiration options. Users can upload existing PDF files and make them ready for signature through an online editor, and audit trails can record the signing process.

Sign documents such as non-disclosure agreements and waivers directly from a PC or mobile device via in-person signing. 

There are two modes to sign a document using EverSign: Parallel & Sequential Signing and the Type, Draw or Upload your Signature.

 

Parallel & Sequential Signing

1. Add and save contacts as signers or recipients (CCs).
2. Decide whether these signers should act sequentially (Sequential Signing) or simultaneously (Parallel Signing).
3. Sequential signing only occurs after the previous party has finished the document.

Type, Draw, or Upload your Signature

Eversign offers three ways for creating signatures and initials. These are:

1. Type your name and choose a font from a list.
2. Draw a signature through a finger or mouse.
3. Upload your existing signature in PNG format.

5. PandaDoc

PandaDoc is an all-in-one document workflow tool enabling users to create, collaborate, and electronically sign documents. A built-in editor allows you to create various documents, such as proposals, quotes, forms, and contracts. Additionally, the system provides pre-approved contracts and clauses for legal documents and integrates with major CRM and productivity suites.

How do you sign electronic documents with PandaDoc eSignature?

1. Sign up to PandaDoc and select “New Document.”

2. Upload the file you wish to sign by clicking the Upload tab. 

3. Drag-and-drop the Signature field into the correct place on the document using the Toolbar on the right.

4. Click the signature box and select yourself as the recipient (you may need to enter your details as a new contact if your details are not already in the database).

5. Then click the signature field again to create your signature by either drawing it by hand, uploading an image, or typing it manually.

6. Select Complete icon and download it in your preferred format or 

7. After you click the Complete button, you can download the file in the format you prefer or directly send it to the original sender.

Key Takeaways

In most cases, electronic signature software is necessary to sign documents online—unless you’re satisfied with the basic functionality offered by apps like Google Docs. Using this software, you can sign practically any document through your app of choice across your iPhone, iPad, and Safari on Mac, while ensuring the security of your contracts, proposals, and quotes.

 

With so much correspondence happening online, electronic signatures are a godsend. They speed up the paperwork process and allow individuals to quickly and securely sign and date any documentation they need to.

An increasing number of businesses are turning to digital paperwork, including medical and real estate. With the exceeding emphasis on electronic paperwork, it’s critical to have an electronic signature. To create one, you can use an e-signature tool, using it to type or draw out your signature. 

With the correct configurations, you can add your electronic signature to documents with the click of a button, taking care of all those pesky PDFs. No longer will you have to print, sign, and upload, simply adding a signature that’s saved in your computer.

What are electronic signatures?

An electronic signature, or e-signatures, is an umbrella term for all types of signatures created in an electronic manner. From a picture of your handwritten signature, a scan of your handwritten signature or a signature done via the touchscreen of your iPad; all of these are electronic signatures. Even though an electronic signature is not a hand-written signature, e-signatures are considered secure, verifiable, and legally binding, making them the perfect choice for most documentation. However, the digital signature, where it requires stricter authentication, is more reliable and easier to validate. 

Instead of receiving a bulk of paperwork in the mail to print and fill out, using an electronic signature gives individuals a chance to simply click and sign in order to get legal processes started. You can create one quickly and easily with help from your favorite PDF Reader or another eSigning platform and we’re here to tell you how.

How do I create and insert an electronic signature in PDF in Windows? 

If you use a Windows laptop, it is most likely that you use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to open your PDF’s. With the Adobe Acrobat Reader you can open, add comments and print any PDF file. You also have the possibilities to sign and send PDF documents, but only a limited amount of time. However, you cannot change any text or images. 

When you want to sign a PDF-document, you can either type in or draw your signature, or you can insert an image of your handwritten signature. When you save your document, the signature will be a part of the PDF.

1. Head to your PDF Reader

From the dashboard of your computer, head to File and Open the PDF you need to sign.

2. Find Fill ; Sign

To the right of the dashboard, you’ll see an option that says Fill ; Sign. Here is where you will find all of the options to add or change your signature. Once you locate it, click on it to find more options.

3. Select Sign

From the Fill ; Sign menu, click Sign, where a few options will pop up. One of them is Add Signature, which you will need to click.

4. Add your Signature

Selecting the Add Signature option will give you a few options to add your signature, including one where you can draw it in. If you have a steady hand, go for it, though you may just want to opt for typing your signature so that it’s nice, neat, and readable.

5. Drag and Drop

Once you’ve created the e-signature you were hoping for, simply drag it and drop it in the box that requires a signature. You can resize and click and drag so that it sits perfectly on the signature line. Once you’re done, click away and move on to the next one if needed.

How can I create and insert an electronic signature in PDF on Mac? 

If you use any laptop from Apple and you don’t have any PDF reader installed, all your PDF files will automatically be opened in Preview. In the Preview app, you can open and print any PDF file and you can add some text. However, it doesn’t work as a Word document and therefore it’s not possible to make changes in the already existing text or the images. 

To create and add your signature in any PDF file on a Mac, walk through the following step.

1. Open your PDF file

Go to Finder and search for your file. Once found, open the PDF file you need to sign and you’ll see the Preview pop-up. 

2. Use Markup icon

Once you open your PDF file in Preview, you need to click on the Markup icon. 

3. Signature icon

When you click on the Markup icon, you see a few more icons. Click on the Signature icon and then Create Signature. 

4. Add your signature

When you click on Create Signature, you get three options to add your signature. You can insert it by using your camera, your iPhone or you can draw it yourself on the trackpad. When you choose the camera option, you will need to sign your signature on a white paper and hold it visible to the camera. If it’s good enough, Preview will then draw a virtual signature. 

If you choose the iPhone option, you will see a pop-up on your iPhone where you can draw your signature with your fingers. When you’re done, it will configure automatically with the PDF file on your computer. 

Last but not least, you can use the Trackpad. Click on Click here to Begin in the middle and draw your signature on the trackpad. Click Done whenever you’re ready. Beware: you may need a steady hand!

5. Insert your signature

Once you’re done and happy with your e-signature, you can insert it and then simply drag and drop it in the place that requires a signature. You can also resize your eSignature so that it fits perfectly in your PDF file. When you’re done, you can simply click the PDF file away and move on to next if needed! 

The limitations of creating an electronic signatures in PDF

Though they are quick, easy, and mostly secure, creating and adding electronic signatures in PDF come with a few limitations. Read over these before making it your preferred way to sign.

Verification Values

With a slew of tools out there to create electronic signatures, mixing and matching can cause complications. If one company has software they prefer, you may have to have the same in order to sign documentation. This could complicate things and mean that you need multiple e-signatures with multiple PDF readers.

The Cost

Not all PDF signature tools are free, and some come with very high costs. Some free tools are out there but they do come with limited features, and some may only allow users to use the software a few times before charging.

Security

Just like any other software, security is a huge deal. When you add your e-signature to the PDF file through Preview (Apple) or Adobe Acrobat Reader (Windows), the reliability of the authentication is low.  

e-Signature software that offers plans and charges money, goes out of their way to ensure users’ safety, though that’s not the case with free tools. You may be sacrificing security to save a few bucks, which could cost you more in the long run.

Creating an electronic signature with other platforms

Instead of just adding your signature with PDF, there are a number of tools that will help you do the same. Many of them are dedicated to e-signatures while others offer a suite of tools that will make your (working) life much easier. Here are the top three eSigning softwares to consider for e-signing.

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC – The Most Trusted PDF E-Signature Tool

While it is most likely that you already use the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to open your files, Adobe also offers another PDF reader which has more functionalities.; the Acrobat Pro DC. This complete PDF productivity solution is filled with all the features of Acrobat Reader, plus much more. 

With Adobe Acrobat Pro DC you can adjust the text and images in your PDF file and you can convert PDF files to other files such as Word, Powerpoint and Excel. Acrobat Pro DC also provides the ability to create and insert digital signatures in PDF files with its Acrobat Sign tool. Because Acrobat Pro DC allows you to create a digital signature, it makes the signature unique to you, encrypted and easy to validate.  

Set up a signature, add it to PDFs in no time and enjoy top-tier security while you’re at it.

DocuSign

DocuSign is a trusted solution for signing documents online and automating your agreement process. In recent years, they’ve converted to a greener way of doing things, making it a feel-good signing tool. Its no-fuss setup and automated processes are among the key things that make it stand out among the crowd. Their personal plan already starts from $10 a month. 

PandaDoc

PandaDoc is another e-signature solution. It’s user-friendly and safe. And just like the other tools, PandaDoc is compliant with ESIGN and UETA, two organizations that oversee e-signing of legal documentation online.

If you’re looking to create an electronic signature in Word, you’re in the right place. This article will provide a step-by-step guide for adding your electronic signature to Word. We will also discuss when to use an electronic signature, the limitations of Word signatures, and creating a signature through alternative platforms.

After the pandemic, millions of people around the globe began to heavily rely on the digital world. Everything from communication to work started to transfer online. We can be sure that many of these tendencies will stick in the post-pandemic era.

As of 2021, 1 in 4 Americans was working remotely. It is estimated that over 20% of the workforce will remain in permanently remote positions by 2025 – how’s that for a digital age? 

With so much online work and communication, electronic signatures are of the essence. Long gone are the days of printing a paper, signing it, and faxing or scanning it over to another office. With current electronic signature software, we can sign our documents neatly and in an instant, giving us more time for the other things on our plates.

Why Use an Electronic Signature?

Electronic signatures are used to sign or sign off on documents, all taking place digitally. Electronic signatures help with reducing paper use, eliminating the need to print and physically sign documents, and improving efficiency.

Your electronic signature is reliable. Once you create it, most software allows you to save it so that you have a neat copy of your signature readily available. Advanced electronic signature software can even provide further information on who signed the document and if it was modified afterward. These electronic signatures are more reliable and therefore often fall into the category of advanced or qualified electronic signature.

Electronic signatures are used for:

• Emails
• Data files
• Contracts
• Purchase orders
• International or cross-border transactions

How Do I Create and Insert an Electronic Signature in Word?

Creating and inserting an electronic signature on Word takes a few minutes. You will need a white paper, pen, scanner (or scanner app), email address (if using an app), and the latest version of Microsoft Word.

1. Sign Your Name

First things first, you need to create your electronic signature. Create your electronic signature by first signing your name on a white sheet of paper. Black ink is most recommended. If you plan to scan your signature with a standard scanner, a larger paper is recommended. If you plan to scan your signature with your phone, any white paper will do.

Make sure you are happy to use this signature for all future electronic documents, since you most likely won’t be able to just change your signature whenever you like. 

2. Scan Your Signature

If you have a scanner, scan your signature onto your computer. If you don’t have a scanner, there are plenty of free scanning apps you can use on your phone. Choose one with good reviews and download it onto your phone. If you have a newer iPhone, you can use the built-in scanner in the Notes app.

Scan your signature by taking a photo of it on your selected app. Save the scan to your liking.

3. Upload Your Signature

If you scanned your signature through a standard scanner, it should automatically upload to your computer. If you use an app, you will have to send the scanned photo to yourself via email or save it to your photos and upload it to your computer using a USB cord or AirDrop, in case you have an iPhone and Macbook.

Save a copy as an image file that is compatible with Word, such as GIF, JPG, PNG, or BMP.

4. Open the File on Word

Open a blank Word document. Click Insert > Illustrations > Pictures > Insert Picture from This Device.

5. Crop the Image

Click on the Crop option to crop your signature away from the excess background. If you don’t see a Crop option, click the photo and the Photo Tools should appear. This is your electronic signature’s final copy.

6. Save and Insert Your Signature

Right-click the picture and save the cropped version. Now open the document that you want to sign. Click Insert > Illustrations > Pictures > Insert Picture from This Device. 

Add the newly cropped photo of your signature and paste it where you’d like on your Word document.

The Limitations of Word for Electronic Signatures

Word was not originally created for electronic signatures, which is why your signature must be pasted as a scanned photo. It is not efficient for those who need to sign and scan multiple documents a day. Besides, if you send your document to someone who has an outdated version of Word or uses another software, they may see your signature in an obscure location or other formatting issues. Also, with Word the trustworthiness of the signature is low since there is barely an authentication method. 

In addition, Word is not really the right software when it is necessary for others to sign the document as well. Each person must first download the document and then open it in Word to add his or hers signature. After the signature is added to the document, you’ll need to save and send the document once again. All in all, this costs unnecessary time while digital signing should actually save time.

Creating an Electronic Signature with Other Platforms

While you can ofcourse use Word to insert your electronic signature, there are other electronic signature software platforms that are better built for companies that exchange many electronic documents day to day. Here are a few alternative platforms that better facilitate electronic signatures.

DocuSign

DocuSign is one of the most used electronic signature softwares in the world. They also offer the ‘Agreement Cloud’, where you can connect and automate your entire agreement process. With all the features DocuSign has to offer, it is a great software for sending and receiving contracts. It helps automate the preparation, signing, acting on, and managing of agreements.

PandaDoc

PandaDoc is another eSigning software built for client-provider agreements. Once the documents are sent, the status of the documents are being tracked when using the platform of PandaDoc. PandaDoc also offers integration services, and workflow automation for quotes, proposals, contracts, and more. In addition, PandaDoc has also integrated with Word. 

SignNow

SignNow is part of the airSlate Business Cloud and is specifically created as an electronic signature solution for professionals. You can sign and send documents for signing, generate agreements, accept payments and automate business processes. It is user-friendly, affordable, and great for small to mid-sized businesses. They also offer mobile capabilities.

Where previously you could only use a wet signature to sign documents, most have been using the electronic or digital signature for quite some time now. And although e-signing saves a considerable amount of time and increases effectiveness, it also raises some questions. After all, to what extent is e-signing actually legally binding? Time to clear up the confusion once and for all!

First of all, it is good to know that the regulations concerning electronic signatures and their legal validity can differ by continent, country and even state. For example, in Europe, the electronic signature is regulated by the European eIDAS regulation (2014), and in the United States, the ESIGN ACT and UETA are in effect. 

Legality in Europa

The use of the electronic signature is regulated in Europe by the eIDAS. The eIDAS contains all kinds of agreements made with all European member states, ‘concerning electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market’, according to the eIDAS regulation. Among other things, the regulation ensures that all EU countries recognize each other’s electronic signatures as valid and it makes doing business across borders a lot more efficient and secure. In addition 

Trustworthiness is important

To know whether an electronic signature is legally valid, we look at the trustworthiness of the signature. The eIDAS distinguishes between three different electronic signatures; the simple electronic signature (SES), advanced electronic signature (AES) and qualified electronic signature (QES). In principle, all three electronic signatures are legally valid, but they each have their own level of trustworthiness. Once a conflict arises over the signed document and it gets so far that a judge is involved, he will always look for the trustworthiness of the method of authentication. 

With the simple electronic signature, the trustworthiness level is very low; it is not easy to prove that the signer was also the person who had to sign and the content of the document can be changed afterwards. As a result, there is little chance that it will hold up as evidence in a courtroom.

For very important documents it is therefore advisable to use the advanced electronic signature or, even better, the qualified electronic signature. These signatures are also called “digital signatures” and have a higher level of reliability because they have to meet more requirements. Thus, the advanced electronic signature is often in combination with a unique code that is linked to the document and / or two-step verification, so that the signer can be identified. 

The qualified electronic signature goes one step further. It is created with a qualified means and qualified certificate (PKI certificate). This certificate is personal so this type of electronic signature has the highest reliability level. With the qualified electronic signature you can be sure that it has sufficient evidential value. Compliance with the agreements made can be enforced. 

Legality in The United States

In the United States, different rules apply regarding electronic signatures. Agreements concerning the electronic signatures are regulated in the UETA and the ESIGN Act. The UETA is a law that gives legal validity to electronic contracts and signatures. The UETA has the same goal as the eIDAS; to remove obstacles to electronic commerce by validating electronic signatures.

Shortly after UETA was introduced, another law came along; the ESIGN Act. The ESIGN Act actually regulates the same thing as the UETA. However, the main difference between the two laws is that the ESIGN Act is a federal law, while the UETA is a state-by-state law. This means that each state within the United States may decide for itself whether to adopt or repeal the UETA regulations. The ESIGN Act then exists to subsequently resolve conflicts between state-based electronic signature laws. 

Framework for legal validity

Both the UETA and the ESIGN Act provide a legal basis and framework for electronic signatures. This framework includes the following requirements to ensure the legitimacy of electronic signatures: 

1. Intent to sign: each signer must declare his intention; 

2. Consent: all involved third parties must provide consent to do business electronically;

3. Verification: an audit trail should clearly show the history of the signing process; 

4. Record Retention: documents must be able to be reproduced and all signatories must receive copies of and have access to the document.

Electronic signatures that comply with the rules of the UETA and/or the ESIGN Act are legally valid and enforceable. They are given the same legal status as handwritten signatures under state law. However, electronic signatures combined with sealing, strong authentication, security and an audit trail have a more weighty evidentiary value than a scanned image of a document with a signature.  

To summarize

In principle, we can say that the electronic signature is legally valid and legally enforceable in many cases. However, if you want to be sure, then in Europe you can best use the qualified electronic signature. This has the highest level of reliability concerning authentication. In the United States, electronic signatures are also valid, provided they meet the requirements of the UETA and ESIGN Act. 

Although e-signing is valid in many cases, caution is advised when signing important documents (read: wills, court orders or other official legal documents). For these types of documents, we recommend consulting the laws, or a lawyer if necessary. 

Do you want to use eSigning software to sign documents and contracts? Check carefully whether the signatures offered by the software comply with the eIDAS, UETA or the ESIGN Act.