Explore Your Digital Signature – Questions Answered: Digital Signature in Word 2013

Quick guide on how to use digital signature in Word 2013 feature

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Take the following steps below to use the digital signature in Word 2013 functionality in minutes:

1. Open your browser and go to signnow.com.
2. Sign up for a free trial run or log in utilizing your email or Google/Facebook credentials.
3. Click on User Avatar -> My Account at the top-right area of the webpage.
4. Modify your User Profile by adding personal information and adjusting settings.
5. Make and manage your Default Signature(s).
6. Get back to the dashboard webpage.
7. Hover over the Upload and Create button and choose the appropriate option.
8. Click on the Prepare and Send button next to the document's title.
9. Enter the email address and name of all signers in the pop-up screen that opens.
10. Use the Start adding fields menu to proceed to edit document and self sign them.
11. Click SAVE AND INVITE when completed.
12. Continue to configure your eSignature workflow employing advanced features.

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What is the digital signature in Word 2013

A digital signature in Word 2013 is a cryptographic method used to authenticate the identity of the signer and ensure the integrity of the document. It serves as a secure way to sign documents electronically, providing a level of assurance that the content has not been altered after signing. Digital signatures are legally recognized in the United States, making them a reliable option for various business and personal documents.

How to use the digital signature in Word 2013

To use a digital signature in Word 2013, you first need to have a digital certificate issued by a trusted certificate authority. Once you have the certificate, follow these steps:

• Open the document you wish to sign.
• Click on the "Insert" tab in the ribbon.
• Select "Text" and then choose "Signature List."
• Click on "Microsoft Office Signature Line" to insert a signature line into your document.
• Fill in the necessary information and click "OK."
• Right-click on the signature line and select "Sign."
• Choose your digital certificate and add any additional information, such as a reason for signing.
• Click "Sign" to complete the process.

Steps to complete the digital signature in Word 2013

Completing a digital signature in Word 2013 involves several key steps:

• Ensure you have a valid digital certificate.
• Open your document and insert a signature line.
• Right-click on the signature line and select "Sign."
• Choose your digital certificate from the list.
• Optionally, add a reason for signing and any additional information.
• Click "Sign" to finalize your signature.

Legal use of the digital signature in Word 2013

Digital signatures in Word 2013 are legally binding under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). These laws establish that electronic signatures hold the same legal weight as traditional handwritten signatures, provided that the signer intends to sign the document and the signature is associated with the document in a secure manner. It is essential to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations when using digital signatures in business transactions.

Security & Compliance Guidelines

When using digital signatures in Word 2013, it is crucial to adhere to security and compliance guidelines to protect sensitive information. Key considerations include:

• Use a trusted digital certificate from a reputable certificate authority.
• Ensure the document is encrypted before sending it for signature.
• Regularly update software to protect against vulnerabilities.
• Implement access controls to restrict who can sign documents.
• Maintain an audit trail of all signed documents for compliance purposes.

Documents You Can Sign

Digital signatures in Word 2013 can be applied to various types of documents, including:

• Contracts and agreements
• Legal documents
• Forms and applications
• Financial statements
• HR documents, such as employee contracts