It’s quick and easy to complete a contract when you sign documents online. This article covers everything you should know about e-signatures—from what they are, to how they work.
What are electronic signatures?
Contracts, agreements, and other important documents often require a signature to prove that the involved parties agree with the content.
Previously, contracts used to be paper-based and require hand-written signatures. In today’s digital world, the process of signing contract has changed. An electronic signature, also called e-signature, is a digital method of legally signing electronic documents.
You can now both request signatures and sign contracts online, quickly and easily. You can sign documents online from your desktop, tablet or phone.
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Is it legal to sign documents online?
The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, otherwise known as the E-Sign Act, states that digital signatures are valid. However, you have to ensure that the contract meets legal requirements and that the document is signed via a reliable method.
The signing must be done securely so that signatures cannot be tempered with. Signatures must be logged, and the people signing must identify themselves via authentication. You should use reliable e-signature providers, such as Adobe, to ensure that you meet these requirements when signing documents online or asking others to sign documents online.
How do digital signatures work?
The actual process of sending and signing documents is quick and easy. You simply upload the document, enter the parties’ email addresses, and hit send. The recipient receives an email with a link, allowing them to sign the document in their browser.
Which documents can be signed online?
Anything that you can sign by hand can be digitally signed, from lease contracts and employment agreements to protocols and financial statements. Digital signatures can be used in both personal and professional contexts.
4 main benefits when you sign documents online
1. Efficient and convenient
Electronic signatures lets you or your recipients sign from anywhere in the world. This speeds up business transactions significantly. Your documents are stored safely in the cloud, and you can see who signed and when.
2. Legally binding and secure
By employing secure methods, such as verification via text messages, electronic signatures carry the same legal weight as handwritten signatures. Advanced authentication protocols ensures that your document stays safe from tampering.
3. Cost-effective and eco-friendly
Signing documents online saves you money, it reduces paper, printing, and administrative costs. It also makes your business more eco-friendly, as it decreases paper consumption and waste.
4. Enhanced security
When it comes to contracts, security is paramount. E-signature providers use secure identification methods, encryption, as well as audit trails, keeping your documents safe.
How do I save a digitally signed document?
You can download your signed documents in PDF format. You can print them and keep them in your physical records, save them in the cloud ,or simply return to the e-signature provider to view your documents.
