Find All You Need to Know: How to Add an Electronic Signature to PDF

Quick-start guide on how to add an electronic signature to PDF

The airSlate SignNow eSignature solution is here to substitute your handwritten signature and improve almost any paper-driven, manual procedures. Signing forms electronically saves time, reduces costs, and offers you the power to approve deals and official forms from anyplace and at any time, on any system. Continue reading to discover the best way to begin improving your approval workflows and sign and send out documents for signature electronically.

Follow the steps listed below to find out how to add an electronic signature to PDF:

1. Launch your web browser and go to signnow.com.
2. Sign up for a free trial run or log in with your electronic mail or Google/Facebook credentials.
3. Select User Avatar -> My Account at the top-right area of the page.
4. Modify your User Profile with your personal information and altering settings.
5. Design and manage your Default Signature(s).
6. Go back to the dashboard page.
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 window that opens.
10. Use the Start adding fields menu to begin to edit file and self sign them.
11. Click on SAVE AND INVITE when accomplished.
12. Continue to customize your eSignature workflow employing more features.

It couldn't get any simpler to learn how to add an electronic signature to PDF than it is with airSlate SignNow. Create your profile, edit and sign templates, ask for signatures, and track every action taken to your documents.

What is the electronic signature for a PDF?

An electronic signature for a PDF is a digital representation of a person's intent to agree to the contents of the document. It serves the same purpose as a handwritten signature but is created and managed electronically. This process allows users to sign documents securely and efficiently, ensuring that the signed document is legally binding under U.S. law, provided it meets specific criteria outlined in the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA).

Steps to complete the electronic signature for a PDF

To add an electronic signature to a PDF using airSlate SignNow, follow these steps:

1. Upload the PDF document to the airSlate SignNow platform.
2. Open the document and select the area where you want to place your signature.
3. Choose the option to create a new signature or use an existing one.
4. Draw, type, or upload your signature image as needed.
5. Position your signature appropriately within the document.
6. Complete any additional fields required, such as date or initials.
7. Save the document and send it for signature if needed.

Legal use of the electronic signature for a PDF

Electronic signatures are legally recognized in the United States, provided they comply with federal and state laws. The ESIGN Act and UETA establish that electronic signatures hold the same legal weight as traditional handwritten signatures. It is essential to ensure that the signing process is secure and that all parties involved consent to use electronic signatures. This includes using a reliable platform like airSlate SignNow, which provides audit trails and verification features to enhance the legal validity of signed documents.

Security & Compliance Guidelines

When using electronic signatures for PDFs, security and compliance are paramount. Here are key guidelines to follow:

• Use a reputable eSignature service that complies with industry standards and regulations.
• Ensure that all signers are authenticated before they can access and sign the document.
• Maintain an audit trail that records all actions taken on the document, including timestamps and IP addresses.
• Encrypt documents during transmission and storage to protect sensitive information.
• Regularly review and update security protocols to address emerging threats.

Examples of using the electronic signature for a PDF

Electronic signatures can be utilized in various scenarios, including:

• Signing contracts or agreements in business transactions.
• Approving legal documents, such as wills or power of attorney forms.
• Completing HR documents, including employment contracts and policy acknowledgments.
• Finalizing real estate documents, such as purchase agreements or lease contracts.
• Submitting tax forms or other government documents that require signatures.

Sending & Signing Methods (Web / Mobile / App)

airSlate SignNow offers multiple methods for sending and signing documents electronically. Users can access the platform via:

• Web browser: Upload and sign documents directly from a computer.
• Mobile app: Use the airSlate SignNow app to sign documents on the go.
• Email: Send documents for signature through email invitations.

Each method provides a seamless experience, allowing users to manage their documents efficiently, regardless of their location.