Statement of Authority
A clear declaration that the signer is authorized to execute the specific document or class of documents.
A clear certification reduces disputes about who authorized an agreement, supports enforceability, and helps satisfy counterparties and regulators that a signature binds the represented party.
Typical users include company officers, authorized agents, outside counsel, and contract administrators who must document signatory authority before executing legal or financial documents.
Third parties such as banks, government agencies, purchasers, and counterparties review these certifications to verify authority and reduce the risk of challenge or delay.
A clear declaration that the signer is authorized to execute the specific document or class of documents.
Full legal name, title, and the entity represented, matching corporate records or government ID.
Exactly which documents, dollar limits, or transaction types the certification covers.
Citation to board resolutions, bylaws, power of attorney, or corporate minutes that grant authority.
Signature, printed name, title, and execution date; include corporate seal if required.
Notarization or witness lines when state law or counterparty requires authentication.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Email | Unique recipient address; avoid shared inboxes |
| Authentication | Email link or SMS code; use stronger KBA if required |
| Attachments | Enable uploads for resolutions and ID |
| Audit Trail | Capture IP, timestamp, and action log |
Use an eSignature workflow that supports secure authentication, attachments, and a reproducible audit trail to preserve evidentiary value.
Complete certifications before filing or closing dates
Attach certifications at time of submission when required
Ensure certification date aligns with agreement effective date
Complete notarization within timeframe required by recipient
Preserve executed certification according to retention rules
A purchasing manager needed to sign a master services agreement
A title company required proof an officer could sign a deed
| 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 | Trial available | Trial available | Trial available | Trial available |
| Bulk Send | Yes (premium tier) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |