Printed Names
Include each signer’s printed name to confirm identity and enable quick indexing during audits or disputes.
A concise, accurate signature page reduces ambiguity about who approved the contract, when it was signed, and under what authority. That clarity supports enforceability, expedites onboarding, and simplifies retention and audit processes.
Businesses across functions use a signature page to finalize contracts; responsibilities vary by role and organization size.
Assigning clear responsibility for preparing, reviewing, and filing the signature page helps prevent execution errors and supports compliance with retention rules.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Field | Require signature and date; set mandatory validation. |
| Authentication | Select email, SMS, or KBA depending on risk and compliance needs. |
| Order Routing | Define signer order or parallel signing as appropriate for parties. |
| Retention | Set automatic storage to secure repository and enable audit trail retention. |
Choose platform capabilities that match your legal, security, and integration needs before executing signature pages.
Match platform choices to regulatory needs (HIPAA, 21 CFR Part 11) and to internal IT policies; choose an option that keeps signed PDFs and audit trails retrievable.
Include each signer’s printed name to confirm identity and enable quick indexing during audits or disputes.
Record the signer’s title or capacity (e.g., CEO, General Counsel) so it’s clear whether they bind the entity.
Add a statement or attach a board resolution when an officer signs on behalf of a corporation.
A clearly formatted execution date (MM/DD/YYYY) resolves timing disputes and controls when obligations begin.
Include a notary acknowledgement only when required by statute or internal policy; capture commission details if used.
Note whether the signature is electronic, wet ink, or notarized to aid internal recordkeeping and compliance.
Effective date may be execution date or separate effective date as stated in contract.
Count time-bound obligations from the effective or execution date as defined by the agreement.
W-9s are provided upon payer request; incorrect TINs can trigger 24% backup withholding.
Retain I-9 per DHS rules: 3 years after hire or 1 year after termination.
If notarized, follow state notary timelines and record retention rules for acknowledgements.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |