How to Add Electronic Signature to a PDF?

A Comprehensive Guide

Electronic signatures have transformed traditional wet signatures on paper. Electronic signatures are a simpler way to authenticate and finalize agreements, contracts and forms. They are also a faster way to close a deal or for an individual to sign an agreement. 

Let us look closer at different ways available for an individual to sign electronically:

Steps to Sign a PDF Document

Step 1: Open the PDF Document

Before you start, ensure you have a PDF document ready for signing. Open the PDF using your preferred PDF reader application or an eSignature tool. To ensure a reliable electronic signature, choose a strong eSignature solution for signing PDFs to enhance your experience.

Step 2: Create Your Signature

Now, it's time to create your electronic signature. You have a few options:

• Freehand: You can sign directly on the screen, if you are using a touch screen device or a digital pen. The eSign application like RSign will easily record your signature. 
• Upload a Signature Image: You can also upload a clear and crisp image of your physical signature. 
• Type Your Name: Some solutions also allow you to type your name and select a font that mimics a handwritten signature.

Step 3: Place Your Signature

Drag and drop or click where you want your signature to appear on the PDF. Resize it if necessary to fit the designated area.

Step 4: Save the Document

After adding your signature, save the PDF document and send it out.

How to Send a PDF Document for Electronic Signature?

Sending a PDF to secure a recipient’s electronic signature is as easy as signing it yourself. 

Once you save the document in the PDF format, you can send it for electronic signature to a recipient using an effective solution like RSign with the PDF link converted into a fillable form.

Step 1: Prepare the Document

Upload the PDF to an eSignature tool to set up a signature field. You can also add input fields like name, date, or email id. Drag and drop to turn the document into a fillable form, easy for signers.

Step 2: Save

Save the document after ensuring you've added all required fields. You can also choose to save it as a template so you can save time and effort when necessary to reuse the same PDF.

Step 3: Send for eSignature

Use your preferred method of communication to share the PDF with the intended recipient. You can attach it to an email, send it through a messaging app, or use a file-sharing service. You might also share the link of the PDF converted into a fillable form and use it whenever needed.

Step 4: Recipient's Signature

Once the recipient gets the PDF, they can simply open the document and follow instructions to add their electronic signature. Select an eSignature solution that provides a smooth signing experience without any registrations, logins, or installations. 

How to Sign Electronically on Different Devices?

Signing on a Computer/Tablet

Step 1: Open the PDF

When your sender sends you the PDF through an email, you can directly open it for signing.

Step 2: Add Your Signature

Follow the earlier steps to create and place your signature.

Step 3: Save and Share

Save the signed PDF and share it with the relevant parties as needed. You'll also get to download the signed copy for your reference.

Signing on a Smartphone

Step 1: Open the PDF

When your sender sends you the PDF through an email, you can directly open it for signing. If the eSignature tool of your choice allows web-based signing, you'll be redirected to the browser for further processing.

Step 2: Add Your Signature

Follow the earlier steps to create and place your signature.

Step 3: Save and Share

Save the signed PDF and share it with the relevant parties as needed. You'll also get to download the signed copy for your reference.