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
E-Signature vs Wet Signature: When You Still Need Ink
A wet signature is ink on paper. US law treats most e-signatures the same, but wills, some family and court papers, and recorded deeds can still call for ink.
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 Electronically Sign a Word Document
Sign a Word file yourself with a digital ID, save it as a PDF and sign it, or send it through an e-signature service. Here's what each option proves.
How to Sign a PDF on Mac: Preview, Finder and Acrobat
Open the PDF in Preview, click Sign in the Markup toolbar and make a signature with your trackpad, camera or iPhone. Also covers Finder and Acrobat Reader.
How to Add a Signature in Google Docs (3 Ways)
Draw one with Insert, Drawing and the Scribble tool, add a picture of your signature, or use Tools, then eSignature, if your Workspace plan includes it.
How to Digitally Sign a PDF With a Certificate (Digital ID)
In Acrobat, open All tools, choose Use a certificate, then Digitally sign. Draw the signature box, pick your digital ID, enter its password and click Sign.
How to Sign a Document on iPhone: Files, Mail and Markup
Open the PDF on your iPhone, tap Add, choose Add Signature, sign with your finger and drag it into place. Here's how it works in Files, Mail and Notes.
How to Sign a Document Sent by Email, Without Printing It
For a PDF attachment, sign it with Markup, Preview or Acrobat Reader and reply with the signed copy. For a signing request, click the link and follow the steps.
How to Sign a PDF on Android: Free Options That Work
The free Acrobat Reader app signs PDFs on any Android phone: Fill & Sign, then Signature. Google Drive fills form fields but doesn't sign. Here are the steps.
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 vs Digital Signature: What's 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.
How do I start using SignWren?
Create an account on the SignWren app. The Free plan is for occasional signing and needs no card, and the people you send documents to never need an account at all.
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