What is the eSignature?

An eSignature, or electronic signature, is a digital representation of a person's intent to agree to the contents of a document. This method of signing is legally recognized in the United States under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). An eSignature can take various forms, including a typed name, a scanned handwritten signature, or a signature created using a stylus or finger on a touchscreen device. The key purpose of an eSignature is to provide a secure and efficient way to sign documents electronically, facilitating faster transactions and reducing the need for paper-based processes.

Steps to Complete the eSignature Process

Completing an eSignature process with airSlate SignNow involves several straightforward steps:

• Create or upload the document: Start by either creating a new document or uploading an existing one that requires signatures.
• Fill out the document: Use airSlate SignNow's tools to fill in any required fields, such as names, dates, and other relevant information.
• Request signatures: Specify who needs to sign the document by entering their email addresses. You can also set the signing order if necessary.
• Send for signature: Once everything is set, send the document for signature. The recipients will receive an email notification prompting them to sign.
• Track the signing process: Monitor the status of the document in your airSlate SignNow account to see when it has been viewed and signed.
• Store and manage the signed document: After all parties have signed, the completed document is securely stored in your account, allowing you to access it anytime.

Legal Use of eSignatures

eSignatures are legally binding in the United States, provided they meet specific criteria outlined in the ESIGN Act and UETA. For an eSignature to be valid, it must demonstrate the signer's intent to sign, be associated with the document, and be created in a manner that is secure and verifiable. Organizations should ensure that their eSignature processes comply with applicable laws and regulations, including maintaining audit trails and providing signers with the option to receive a copy of the signed document. This legal recognition allows businesses to streamline their operations while ensuring that agreements are enforceable.

Security & Compliance Guidelines

When using eSignatures, security and compliance are paramount. To ensure the integrity of the signing process, consider the following guidelines:

• Use secure platforms: Choose a reputable eSignature service like airSlate SignNow that employs strong encryption and security protocols.
• Verify identities: Implement identity verification methods, such as two-factor authentication, to confirm the identity of signers.
• Maintain audit trails: Keep detailed logs of the signing process, including timestamps and IP addresses, to provide evidence of the signing event.
• Compliance with regulations: Ensure that your eSignature practices align with industry regulations and standards, such as HIPAA for healthcare or GDPR for personal data protection.

Documents You Can Sign Electronically

eSignatures can be applied to a wide range of documents, making them versatile for various industries. Common documents that can be signed electronically include:

• Contracts: Business agreements, service contracts, and partnership agreements.
• Legal documents: Wills, powers of attorney, and real estate transactions.
• HR documents: Employment contracts, onboarding forms, and policy acknowledgments.
• Financial documents: Loan agreements, tax forms, and investment contracts.
• Sales documents: Proposals, quotes, and purchase orders.

Sending & Signing Methods

With airSlate SignNow, users can send and sign documents through various methods, enhancing flexibility and accessibility. These methods include:

• Web: Access airSlate SignNow through a web browser to upload documents, request signatures, and manage your account.
• Mobile: Use the airSlate SignNow mobile app to sign documents on the go, ensuring that you can complete transactions anytime, anywhere.
• API integration: For businesses with specific needs, airSlate SignNow offers API integration, allowing seamless incorporation of eSignature capabilities into existing workflows and applications.