How to sign a PDF and get eSignatures online

So, you’ve got a PDF you need to sign, but the PDF reader on your device doesn’t give you the option to add your signature. What now?

Fear not, it’s easy to sign a PDF online in just a few clicks with eSignature tools available in Dropbox. Read on to learn how to sign a PDF online, and find out how to get advanced control over your eSignatures with Dropbox Sign.

What can I use to sign a PDF?

To sign a PDF, you’ll need an app that has eSignature tools built in. Thankfully, there are a range of eSignature apps to choose from and, better yet, they work hand-in-hand with Dropbox.

Several Dropbox app integrations allow for eSigning, including Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, and best-in-class eSignature software Dropbox Sign. So long as your device can support any of these tools, you can sign documents. That means whether you're on a PC, a mobile device such as an Android, or iPhone, nothing is stopping you from getting contracts signed and finalized.

Sign PDFs online with Dropbox

If you’re looking for simple eSignature tools for day-to-day electronic signature needs, you can get basic eSignature tools with a standard Dropbox plan.  For advanced features and maximum control over your eSignature workflow, Dropbox Sign has you covered.

Dropbox Sign makes it easy to set up advanced eSignature templates and document workflows. Create contracts from the first draft to the final stages and then send it off for a signature, all within Dropbox. You won't have to download any sensitive documents to your local PC to be accidentally deleted or left idling in an insecure folder. If you're the one signing, you can also add your signature from within Dropbox: select a PDF or Word doc you'd like to sign and choose Dropbox Sign.

Files are securely stored online, accessible remotely, and use our multi-layered protection and strict encryption. From collaborating on initial proposals, sending over contract drafts, and finally storing your signed PDF document, Dropbox is a one-stop shop for your electronic signing needs.

How to e-sign a PDF online without an image of your signature

Don't worry if you don't have a digital image file of your precise signature because it's not needed. An electronic signature lets you add text as a means of signing or generates a "handwritten" signature of your name. While iPad stylus tools and computer trackpads allow you to put in your handwritten signature, they aren't strictly necessary to create an online signature.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. If you have legal questions, please consult with your attorney.

Now that you know how to add eSignatures to PDFs, it’s worth taking the time to understand a little more about electronic signatures and their legality.

What is an electronic signature?

An electronic signature is pretty much what it sounds like: a digital version of your handwritten signature. When an electronic document calls for a signature, you'll typically see a signature field highlighted as a "fill & sign" that you can edit.

When do I need an electronic signature?

In many countries around the world, you can use an electronic signature to sign PDFs and other digital documents such as contracts, agreements, and invoices, but there are exceptions. You should make sure to check the laws in your jurisdiction regarding whether electronic signatures are right for your specific use case. 

An added benefit is that you can collate your documents to be more streamlined than ever. You'll never have to sign each individual invoice by hand again or worry about where to store it.

Electronic vs. digital signatures

You may see the terms "digital signature" and "electronic" signature used interchangeably, but they're actually not the same thing.

They represent two unique ways to digitally sign a PDF:

Electronic signatures

Under the E-Sign Act, an electronic signature serves as the binding equivalent of your handwritten signature. This, in turn, is your consent to the terms laid out in the document you are signing. Also known as an eSignature, it's essentially an image of your signature placed on a digital document. Additionally, it can't be declared invalid purely on the basis that it's not a physical signature.     

Digital signatures

A digital signature is encrypted and designed to counter any likelihood of tampering. When a document is signed with a digital signature, an algorithm works to generate a "hash." If the signed document is altered or tampered with after the signature was applied, your program will tell you. And, if it has, the document's integrity is questionable.

Are electronic and digital signatures binding?

Yes, electronic and digital signatures are binding, although this may vary between different states and countries. Both types of signatures are legally binding features of any document you sign.

Do I need an electronic signature or a digital signature?

This depends on your document. Digital signatures are more weighty in terms of security because they're designed to deliver notary-level security when you can't witness the signee. That said, most circumstances you and your team will likely face probably don't require a notary, so an electronic signature may be more than sufficient.

Use eSignatures in Dropbox Sign to streamline work

Looking to get more from your eSignature tools? Dropbox Sign has you covered.

Whether you're waiting for invoice approval or onboarding a new employee, printing, signing, confirming, and filing documents can take up valuable time. But it doesn't have to be that way. With Dropbox Sign as your eSignature solution, your workflow will improve in many ways:

• Up to 80% faster turnaround time
• Secure storage
• Eco-friendly paperwork
• Saves admin time
• Saves money on faxing and postage (especially for freelancers)
• Everything is right in your Dropbox workspace

While the world may still be adapting to the eSignature, the bygone days of in-ink John Hancocks will soon be a thing of the past. Sign up for a free 30-day trial and experience the power of electronic signatures with Dropbox Sign for yourself.