Parties
Identify each legal entity or individual by full legal name and role so authority and accountability are clear in disputes or audits.
A clear EBRA authorization documents intent, consent, attribution, and retention for electronic records—key elements under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted. Proper execution reduces disputes over admissibility and ensures consistent handling across departments and counterparties.
Use the form as a centrally stored record to show who authorized electronic processing and under which policies.
Identify each legal entity or individual by full legal name and role so authority and accountability are clear in disputes or audits.
List specific record types (contracts, invoices, HR files) and formats (PDF, XML) that are authorized for electronic creation and exchange.
Specify acceptable signer authentication (email link, SMS code, KBA, multi-factor) and any required signer identity verification procedures.
State retention periods, archival format, and who controls record disposition to satisfy regulatory requirements and corporate policy.
Require an audit trail capturing timestamps, IP addresses, actions, and document versions to support evidence and chain-of-custody.
Include governing law, dispute-resolution process, and whether electronic copies are admissible as originals for litigation or regulatory review.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Required Fields | Make Business Name, Signer, Effective Date mandatory |
| Authentication | Enable SMS code or MFA for high-value approvals |
| Audit Trail | Capture timestamps, IP, and action logs automatically |
| Archival | Export PDF/A and store with versioning |
Verify the platform provides encryption in transit and at rest, robust access controls, and exportable certificates of completion for audit purposes.
Record the date of final signature as the official effective date
Specify an internal review period for compliance checks
Send executed copies to all parties and records custodian promptly
Define how quickly record copies are provided on request
Clarify when retention clocks begin (effective or execution date)
| 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 | Yes, 7-day trial | No | No | Yes, limited | Yes, limited |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |