Are electronic signatures valid on this form?

Yes. Electronic signatures are valid under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted, provided intent, consent, attribution, and record retention requirements are satisfied.

When is notarization required?

Notarization is required when state law or the recipient demands it (for example, some property conveyances); verify the specific state rule before execution.

Can signers use different authentication methods?

Yes, but record the method used for each signer. Higher-risk transactions should require uniform stronger authentication such as RON or in-person notarization.

What happens if a signer’s name differs from ID?

Name mismatches can delay processing and may trigger additional verification or re-signing; use the legal name on government ID to avoid issues.

How should completed forms be stored?

Store signed originals or certified electronic copies with audit trails. For financial or tax matters retain per IRS guidance (minimum 3 years) and industry rules.

How do we revoke or amend a joint direction?

Revoke or amend only according to the form’s terms and applicable law; document the revocation with signatures from all original parties and preserve the change history.

Electronic Signature
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Miscellaneous
Client Joint Directions Form

Client Joint Directions Form

This template is fully customizable. Edit the text, fill out the fields, and send it for signature. Give it a try!

CLIENT JOINT DIRECTIONS FORM

Recitals

WHEREAS, Client Name 1: and Client Name 2: (collectively, the "Clients") have jointly engaged Service Provider: to provide services as set out below.

WHEREAS, the Clients wish to provide joint directions and authorizations to the Service Provider with respect to the matters and scope described in this form and to establish the responsibilities and liabilities of the Clients with respect to such directions.

WHEREAS, the Parties intend that these joint directions constitute a binding record of agreed instructions and that the Service Provider may rely on these directions until modified in writing consistent with the terms below.

Joint Directions / Scope of Work

Scope of Directions

The Clients hereby jointly instruct the Service Provider to take all actions reasonably necessary to carry out the Scope of Directions above. This includes, where applicable, the authority to obtain records, execute routine documents on behalf of both Clients for implementation of the directions, and to consult with third parties as reasonably required.

Authority for Execution (select one or more) Joint signatures required from both Clients for all material actions Either Client may instruct the Service Provider independently for non-material or administrative matters Specific delegated authority to Service Provider as set forth in Scope of Directions

Payment Terms

Total Agreed Fee Payment Schedule / Milestones Late Payment

Any overdue amount shall accrue interest at a rate of calculated monthly on the outstanding balance until paid in full. The Clients agree to be jointly and severally liable for all fees and costs incurred under this Agreement unless otherwise indicated below.

Fee Responsibility (select one) Joint and several liability by both Clients Client 1 solely responsible Client 2 solely responsible

Term and Termination

This Joint Directions Form commences on Start Date: and continues until End Date: unless earlier terminated in accordance with this section.

Notice Period for Termination

Either Client may terminate these directions upon written notice to the other Client and the Service Provider in accordance with the notice period above. Termination shall not relieve either Client of obligations accrued prior to termination, including payment for services performed and costs incurred.

Confidentiality

Each Client and the Service Provider shall maintain in confidence all non-public information and documents exchanged in connection with these directions and shall not disclose such confidential information except as required by law, regulation, or with the prior written consent of the disclosing Client. Confidential information shall not include information that becomes publicly available other than by breach of this provision.

Representations, Indemnity and Limitation

Each Client represents that the information provided to the Service Provider is true and complete to the best of that Client's knowledge. Each Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Service Provider from third-party claims arising from reliance on the Clients' instructions, except to the extent such claims result from the Service Provider's gross negligence or willful misconduct. The Service Provider's liability for any claim arising from these directions shall be limited to direct damages and shall not include consequential, incidental, or punitive damages.

Notices

Notice Address for Client 1 Notice Address for Client 2

Governing Law; Entire Agreement

This Joint Directions Form shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of without regard to conflict of laws principles. The courts located in that State shall have exclusive jurisdiction over disputes arising from this form.

This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Clients and supersedes all prior oral or written agreements relating to the subject matter hereof. Any amendment must be made in writing and signed by both Clients.

Acknowledgement and Certification

By signing below, each Client certifies that they have read and understand the terms of these joint directions, that they are authorized to give these instructions, and that they agree to be bound by the terms set forth herein.

Additional Instructions or Clarifications (optional)

Client 1 - Printed Name:

By:

Date:

Client 2 - Printed Name:

By:

Date:

What the Client Joint Directions Form Is and When It’s Used

The Client Joint Directions Form documents instructions that two or more clients issue together to a third party or to their joint representative. It captures identifying information for each client, a clear statement of the joint instruction, agreed execution order, dates, and signature blocks. Commonly used for joint account authorizations, joint property dispositions, coordinated legal representation, and shared beneficiary elections, the form creates a single source of truth that helps prevent conflicting actions, supports internal approvals, and provides an audit trail for compliance and recordkeeping.

Why a Structured Joint Directions Form Matters

A clear joint directions form reduces ambiguity between co-clients, creates documented consent for third parties, and establishes execution order and authority. It lowers litigation risk, speeds transaction processing, and provides evidence for auditors or regulators when multiple parties must act together.

Who Typically Completes a Client Joint Directions Form

Teams and professionals that coordinate instructions across multiple account holders or owners use this form to create a single, actionable record before executing transactions.

Corporate clients — Boards or authorized officers issuing joint corporate directives for contracts or account changes.
Private parties — Spouses or co-owners directing real estate transactions or joint account authorizations.
Professional advisers — Attorneys, trustees, or financial advisers preparing coordinated client instructions for third parties.

Use patterns differ by industry and document complexity; ensure the appropriate signatory authority is recorded before circulation.

Essential Sections to Include in a Professional Client Joint Directions Form

A complete form balances clear party identification, precise instruction language, signature areas, execution sequencing, authentication options, and supporting attachments to reduce disputes and facilitate processing.

Parties

Full legal names and contact details for each client and any agent or representative; include legal entity type when applicable and government ID references if needed for verification.

Joint Instruction

A concise, unambiguous statement of the action requested (for example: 'Transfer $50,000 from Account X to Account Y on settlement date'); avoid vague terms like 'as needed'.

Execution Order

Specify whether signatures are simultaneous or sequential, and identify any primary signer or required order to make the instruction binding for third parties.

Signatures

Distinct signature blocks for each party with printed name, title (if any), date, and a place for witness or notary if required by law or internal policy.

Authentication

Record the chosen authentication method (email link, SMS code, KBA, RON, or in-person notarization) and any identity evidence collected at signing.

Attachments

List of supporting documents (power of attorney, corporate resolution, account statements) and instructions for how to submit them with the form.

Step-by-Step: Completing and Executing the Client Joint Directions Form

Follow these steps in sequence to prepare, verify, and finalize a joint directions form with minimal rework and clear evidence of consent.

01

Prepare form: Enter parties, details, and attachments.
02

Confirm authority: Verify signatory powers or corporate resolutions.
03

Select authentication: Choose electronic or notary-based verification.
04

Collect signatures: Execute in the agreed order and retain execution evidence.

How the Joint Directions Process Typically Flows

A typical process moves from preparation through authentication, signature collection, and final distribution to the executing party or third party.

Draft: Create the instruction and attach supporting documents.
Authorize: Confirm that each signer has legal authority.
Authenticate: Apply chosen identity verification and capture evidence.
Deliver: Send the completed, signed form to the recipient and archive a copy.

Digital Signing Options and Technical Requirements

Decide whether to use basic e-signatures, stronger authentication, or notarization depending on legal and internal requirements.

File formats: PDF, DOCX accepted
Integrations: Works with CRM and storage
Authentication: Email, SMS, RON options

Configuring a Digital Workflow for Joint Directions

Map fields, signer order, authentication, and attachments before sending to minimize signer confusion and exceptions.

Field	Configuration
Signer Order	Simultaneous or sequential
Auth Method	Email OTP \| SMS \| RON
Required Docs	POA, resolutions, ID scans
Archive Settings	PDF/A retention with audit trail

How Joint Directions Differ from Similar Documents

Compare common document types to clarify when a Client Joint Directions Form is the appropriate instrument.

Document	Purpose	Typical use
Power of Attorney	delegate authority	single agent
Joint Directions Form	record joint instruction	multiple signers
Corporate Resolution	board authorization	corporate actions
Account Mandate	bank instruction	financial transactions

Common eSignature Vendor Pricing and Feature Snapshot

Comparison of starting prices and key capabilities for common eSignature vendors, with signNow listed first for parity in evaluation.

	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	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies
Bulk Send	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
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

Key Risks and Penalties from Incorrect Joint Directions

Conflicting Instructions: May cause transaction delays

Invalid Authority: Civil liability risk

Incorrect TIN: Backup withholding applies

Improper Witnessing: May invalidate act

Missing Authentication: Non‑enforceable signature

Late Filing: Regulatory penalties possible

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Joint Directions

Leaving execution order undefined, which can create disputes about which signature controls or whether all needed signatures were obtained.
Using vague or conditional language in the instruction, such as 'if convenient' or 'as soon as possible', that prevents clear performance.
Failing to verify signatory authority or to attach power-of-attorney or corporate resolutions when required by the recipient.
Applying inconsistent names, dates, or account identifiers across parties and attachments, which often triggers rework or rejection.

Practical Tips for Accurate and Efficient Completion

Adopt consistent drafting, verification, and archiving procedures to reduce exceptions and strengthen enforceability.

Standardize the form

Use a template that includes all required fields, signature blocks, and a version control footer so every completed form is uniform and auditable across the organization.

Confirm signer authority

Request and attach evidence of signatory authority—such as a corporate resolution or durable power of attorney—before finalizing joint instructions to prevent later challenges.

Choose appropriate authentication

Match the level of signer verification (email OTP, SMS, KBA, RON, notarization) to the transaction’s risk profile and regulatory requirements to preserve enforceability.

Retain full audit trail

Keep signed copies, identity evidence, and system audit logs demonstrating timestamps, IP addresses, and actions to support compliance reviews or dispute resolution.

Realistic Use Cases for Client Joint Directions

The form is versatile across scenarios where multiple parties must agree to the same action; here are two representative examples.

Real Estate Closing

A married couple directs sale proceeds disbursement

couples sign simultaneously using RON
the completed form includes deed reference, bank instructions, and a notary audit trail to support escrow closing and title transfer.

Joint Account Transfer

Two co-trustees instruct a fund transfer between trust accounts

trustees sign in sequential order per trust terms
form attaches the trust excerpt, records trustee authority, and preserves an e-signed audit trail for the custodian.

Frequently Asked Questions About Client Joint Directions

Answers to common questions about validity, signing methods, witnesses, and storing completed forms for compliance and audit readiness.

Need help? Contact support

Are electronic signatures valid on this form?
Yes. Electronic signatures are valid under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted, provided intent, consent, attribution, and record retention requirements are satisfied.
When is notarization required?
Notarization is required when state law or the recipient demands it (for example, some property conveyances); verify the specific state rule before execution.
Can signers use different authentication methods?
Yes, but record the method used for each signer. Higher-risk transactions should require uniform stronger authentication such as RON or in-person notarization.
What happens if a signer’s name differs from ID?
Name mismatches can delay processing and may trigger additional verification or re-signing; use the legal name on government ID to avoid issues.
How should completed forms be stored?
Store signed originals or certified electronic copies with audit trails. For financial or tax matters retain per IRS guidance (minimum 3 years) and industry rules.
How do we revoke or amend a joint direction?
Revoke or amend only according to the form’s terms and applicable law; document the revocation with signatures from all original parties and preserve the change history.

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