E-signature guides
Straight answers about signing documents electronically: what the law says, how to do it with the tools you already have, and how to prove a signed file hasn't been changed. Each guide lists the sources it's based on.
Law & compliance
Are Electronic Signatures Legally Binding in the US?
Yes. Under the federal ESIGN Act and state UETA laws, a signature can't be denied legal effect just because it's electronic. Here's where that stops.
Is a Typed Name a Legal Signature? Checkboxes and Emails Too
Yes, in most US transactions a typed name, a clicked checkbox or an emailed "I agree" can count as a signature, as long as the person meant to sign. Here's why.
SES vs AdES vs QES: eIDAS Signature Types Explained
eIDAS recognizes simple, advanced and qualified electronic signatures. All are valid, but only a QES equals a handwritten signature. Here's which one you need.
The ESIGN Act Explained: What the Law Actually Requires
A plain-English walk through the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. 7001 to 7031): the general rule, consumer consent, record retention, exceptions and how it fits with UETA.
Which Documents Can't Be Signed Electronically in the US?
Federal law excludes wills, family-law matters, court documents, most UCC records and certain consumer notices from ESIGN. Here's what each exception means.
How-to
How to Create an Electronic Signature (and When You Need More)
Draw it, type it, or photograph your handwritten one. That's an electronic signature. A digital signature is different: it needs a certificate and a key.
How to E-Sign an Independent Contractor Agreement
A practical guide to e-signing a contractor agreement: what to check, who signs first, how the W-9 fits in, and why the contract alone doesn't settle status.
How to Fill Out a PDF Form on a Computer or Phone
Click into the fields in free Acrobat Reader, Preview on a Mac, your iPhone or Microsoft Edge. If a form has no fields, add text boxes where the blanks are.
How to Get a Document Signed by Multiple People
Send one document to several signers, choose sequential or parallel signing order, copy the people who only need the final PDF, and set reminders.
How to Insert a Signature in Word: 3 Ways That Work
Insert a picture of your handwritten signature, draw one on the Draw tab, or add a signature line. Here's what each does and when Word adds a digital signature.
How to Sign a PDF Online for Free (No Printing or Scanning)
Sign a PDF with the free Acrobat Reader's Fill & Sign, Preview on a Mac, or Markup on an iPhone. For multiple signers, use an e-signature service.
Security & trust
Electronic Signature vs Digital Signature: The Real Difference
An electronic signature is a legal concept about intent to sign. A digital signature is cryptography that proves a file hasn't changed. Here's how they fit.
How to Check if a Signed PDF Was Altered After Signing
Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat and check the Signatures panel, compare the signed version to the current one, or compare file hashes against a copy you trust.
What Is an E-Signature Audit Trail, and Why Does It Matter?
An e-signature audit trail is a log of who opened, viewed and signed a document, when, and from where. It's your evidence if anyone disputes the signature.
Get early access
SignWren isn't open yet. Leave your email and we'll write when early access starts, usually with a question or two about what you need to get signed.
One email when we open, the odd product update before that, nothing else. Unsubscribe with one click from any message.