How to Create and Save an Electronic Signature

TL;DR

Creating and saving an electronic signature involves using a digital platform like signNow. Users can easily fill out documents, request signatures, and securely store completed files. This process is compliant with U.S. laws, ensuring legal validity and security.

Understanding Electronic Signatures

An electronic signature, or eSignature, is a digital version of a handwritten signature that is used to sign documents electronically. It serves the same purpose as a traditional signature but is executed through digital means. eSignatures are legally binding in the United States under the ESIGN Act and UETA, making them a reliable choice for businesses and individuals looking to streamline their signing processes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Electronic Signature

Creating an electronic signature is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps using signNow.

• 01
  Open signNow: Visit the signNow website and log into your account.
• 02
  Create Signature: Navigate to the signature creation tool and choose to draw, type, or upload your signature.
• 03
  Save Signature: Once satisfied, save your signature for future use in documents.
• 04
  Use Signature: Select your saved signature when filling out documents that require your signature.

Accessing signNow on Different Devices

signNow is accessible on various devices, allowing users to create and manage electronic signatures seamlessly.

• Web Browser: Access via any modern web browser.
• Mobile App: Download the signNow app for iOS or Android.
• API Access: Integrate with other applications using signNow's API.

Legal Validity of Electronic Signatures

Electronic signatures are legally recognized in the U.S. under the ESIGN Act and UETA. This means that eSignatures carry the same weight as traditional handwritten signatures. Use signNow when closing remote sales contracts or collecting employee onboarding signatures at scale.

Security Features of signNow

Data Encryption: TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit, AES-256 at rest.

Compliance Certifications: GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II.

Audit Trails: Detailed logs of all document interactions.

Two-Factor Authentication: Enhanced security for user accounts.

Document Protection: Secure storage and sharing options.

User Permissions: Control access levels for different users.

Industry Use Cases for Electronic Signatures

Various industries benefit from using electronic signatures, streamlining their processes and improving efficiency.

Real Estate

Agents use eSignatures to sign and send rental applications and lease agreements quickly, leading to faster deal closures.

Healthcare

Providers collect patient signatures on medical forms online, ensuring HIPAA compliance and improving patient experience.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While using signNow, users may encounter some common issues. Here are solutions to frequently asked questions.

• Forgot Password
  Use the 'Forgot Password' link on the login page.
• Signature Not Appearing
  Ensure you have saved your signature correctly in your account.
• Document Not Sending
  Check your internet connection and try resending.
• Mobile App Issues
  Make sure you have the latest version of the app installed.
• Payment Problems
  Verify your payment information and try again.
• Document Format Issues
  Ensure the document is in a supported format like PDF.

Setting Up Your Electronic Signature Workflow

Establishing a workflow for electronic signatures can enhance efficiency in document management.

Document Preparation	Ensure documents are ready for signing.
Signature Placement	Identify where signatures are needed.
Send for Signature	Use signNow to send documents to signers.
Track Status	Monitor the signing process in real-time.
Store Completed Documents	Save signed documents securely in the cloud.
Review Audit Trails	Check logs for compliance and record-keeping.

Pricing Comparison of eSignature Solutions

Below is a comparison of pricing for various eSignature solutions as of October 2023.

	signNow	DocuSign	Adobe Sign	PandaDoc	HelloSign
Starting Price	$8/user/mo, no cap	$8/user/mo	$13/user/mo	$19/user/mo	$15/user/mo
Free Trial	7-day free trial	No	No	No	No
Bulk Send	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Audit Trail	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HIPAA Compliant	Yes, BAA required	No	No	No	No

Best Practices for Using Electronic Signatures

To maximize the benefits of electronic signatures, consider the following best practices.

Use Templates

Create reusable templates for frequently used documents.

Ensure Compliance

Stay updated on legal requirements for eSignatures.

Train Users

Provide training for team members on using signNow effectively.

Monitor Usage

Regularly review how eSignatures are utilized in your organization.