Offer Details
Clear compensation, start date, position title, reporting structure, and any contingencies so the employee understands key terms.
A complete packet reduces onboarding delays, documents consent, and creates auditable records that satisfy ESIGN and UETA requirements for electronic signatures while supporting compliance checks such as I-9 retention and tax reporting.
Human resources, hiring managers, payroll teams, and new hires typically work together to complete the packet; responsibilities vary by employer size and workflow.
Keeping clear role assignments in the packet reduces errors and ensures timely collection of signatures and supporting documentation.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code; use stronger methods for sensitive data. |
| Routing Order | Sequential approval: HR → Hiring manager → Employee. |
| Conditional Fields | Reveal benefits or tax fields based on employee type selection. |
| Reminders | Enable automated reminders at 3 and 7 days to reduce lag. |
Verify platform compatibility with HRIS, payroll, and document storage systems before deployment.
Ensure the platform supports your archive format and data export needs for payroll and legal holds.
Clear compensation, start date, position title, reporting structure, and any contingencies so the employee understands key terms.
At-will language, probationary period, confidentiality, and termination procedures when applicable to limit future disputes.
W-4 and applicable state withholding forms collected accurately to avoid payroll and IRS withholding errors.
Instructions for identity verification and acceptable documents; include steps for in-person or RON completion as needed.
Direct deposit form, pay frequency acknowledgement, and emergency contact details required for payroll processing.
Employee handbook, non-discrimination, and electronic consent notices that the employee must sign and date.
Save signed packets as searchable PDF/A or DOCX with embedded audit reports to support retention and e-discovery needs.
Attach copies of government IDs or supporting documents to the signed packet and index them for secure retrieval.
Define and lock signer order to ensure approvals occur in the required sequence for authorization and benefit activation.
Include timestamped events, IP addresses, and signer authentication evidence with each completed packet.
Provide on request; no set federal filing deadline
Employee copies due by Jan 31
Recipient and IRS copies due by Jan 31
Retain 3 years after hire or 1 year after termination, whichever is later
Individual income tax filing due Apr 15 (extension to Oct 15 possible)
| 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 | Varies | Varies |
The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; it is just as easy for our customers.
The team has been exceptional and the API has been great.