Digital vs. Wet Signatures: The Legality of eSigning
Printing a contract, signing it with a pen (a "wet signature"), scanning it, and emailing it back is a tremendously inefficient workflow. Today, electronic signatures are the global standard for business operations.
1. The ESIGN Act and eIDAS
In 2000, the United States passed the ESIGN Act, which granted electronic signatures the exact same legal status as handwritten signatures. Europe followed with the eIDAS regulation. Today, an e-signature is legally binding in almost every jurisdiction worldwide.
2. Enhanced Security
Ironically, a digital signature is actually more secure than a wet signature. When you sign a PDF using PDF Master, the document is cryptographically sealed. If anyone alters the document after it has been signed, the signature is instantly invalidated.
3. How to Sign a PDF
- Go to the Sign PDF tool.
- Upload the contract.
- Draw your signature using your mouse or touchscreen, or type it using a cursive font.
- Drag and drop the signature onto the signature line.
- Download the legally binding, sealed PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an account to sign? No, you can use our basic signature tools immediately without creating an account.
Can I request signatures from others? Yes, you can prepare a document and email a secure signing link to multiple recipients.