User Upload Instructions
What the User Upload Instructions are and who they serve
Why consistent upload instructions matter for compliance and processing
Consistent instructions reduce errors, speed review cycles, and support legal admissibility of electronic records. They help show intent, ensure correct signer attribution, and protect sensitive data by specifying formats, redaction, and secure transmission requirements.
Who typically follows these upload directions
Multiple teams and external partners routinely use upload instructions to submit documents correctly and securely.
- Real estate agents and closing coordinators who submit contracts, disclosures, and PDFs for signature and recording.
- Healthcare administrators submitting patient authorizations and intake forms subject to HIPAA privacy and recordkeeping.
- Finance and accounting personnel uploading tax forms, invoices, and payroll documents for regulatory reporting.
Clear instructions reduce rework across departments and help maintain auditable file histories for compliance and operational continuity.
Step-by-step process to upload a file correctly
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01Prepare files: Combine pages, remove extra annotations.
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02Check formats: Confirm PDF/DOCX/JPG and file size limits.
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03Upload documents: Use portal upload or secure link.
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04Verify and route: Preview, assign fields, and submit.
How the upload and routing workflow operates
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Upload: Sender uploads and selects document type.
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Validation: System checks format, size, and required metadata.
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Field placement: Add signature, initial, and date fields.
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Delivery: System routes to signers and captures audit trail.
Platform and technical prerequisites for successful uploads
Ensure your device, browser, and account permissions meet minimum requirements before uploading.
- Browsers supported: Chrome, Edge, Safari.
- File formats: PDF, DOCX, JPG.
- Authentication: Email or SMS code
Confirm integrations and SSO settings with your IT or platform administrator to avoid blocked uploads or authentication errors.
Recommended workflow settings for uploads and e-submission
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link | SMS code or KBA optional |
| Max file size | 25 MB | Per file limit |
| Accepted formats | PDF | DOCX | JPG |
| Auto-validate | Enable | Check for missing fields |
File handling features to expect during uploads
Supported formats
Accepts PDF, Word DOCX, and common image formats. Files are normalized on upload to preserve layout and prevent font substitution during signing and export.
Preview and validation
Preview shows exact signing pages and flags missing metadata or unlocked form fields so you can correct issues before routing to signers.
Audit trail capture
Every upload and signing action records timestamp, IP address, action type, and signer attribution to support ESIGN/UETA compliance and potential audits.
Mobile and offline
Signing and upload previews are available on mobile devices; offline work syncs when a connection is restored to preserve user progress.
Practical tips for accurate, efficient uploads
Common upload errors to avoid
- Uploading the wrong document version or an unsigned draft leads to manual rework and delays in routing.
- Submitting large uncompressed images or high-resolution scans can exceed file limits and cause timeouts on slower connections.
- Missing or inconsistent metadata (incorrect document type or name) prevents automated routing and misapplies retention rules.
- Placing signature fields on the wrong page or overlapping existing form text can invalidate the signing session and require reissue.
Key risks and legal consequences of incorrect uploads
Timing expectations and important deadlines
Immediate confirmation:
Expect an upload receipt within minutes after submission.
Standard processing window:
Routine validation and routing complete within 24–48 hours.
W-2 and 1099 timing:
Employee and contractor forms to recipients typically due by Jan 31 each year.
Tax filing deadlines:
Paper and electronic IRS submission dates differ; check IRS guidance for each form.
Retention start date:
Retention counts begin on the document’s effective or filing date.
Frequently asked questions and troubleshooting tips
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What file types are allowed?
Accepted formats typically include PDF, DOCX, and common image types such as JPG. PDFs are preferred for fixed-layout content and will preserve pagination and signature placement in workflows.
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My upload failed due to size — now what?
Compress images, reduce resolution, or split the document into multiple files. Confirm per-file size limits in your workflow settings before re-uploading to avoid timeouts.
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How do I confirm a document was uploaded correctly?
Check the upload receipt and preview pane for all pages and required fields. Confirm the system shows a successful validation and review the audit trail for the upload timestamp.
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Can I upload medical records or PHI?
Yes if the workflow is HIPAA-compliant and a Business Associate Agreement is in place. Redact unrelated PHI and follow your organization’s privacy requirements for storage and routing.
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Is remote online notarization required?
RON is not universally required; it is permitted in many states but subject to state rules. Verify state RON status and identity-proofing requirements before relying on remote notarization.
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What if a signer cannot access the signing link?
Confirm the recipient email and spam filters, offer an alternate authentication method if available, and reissue the signing session after resolving access or identity verification issues.