What is an eSignature?

An eSignature (electronic signature) lets people sign documents online, instead of using pen and paper. eSignature is widely recognized as legally binding in the European Union, the UK, the United States, Canada, and many other areas of the world.

HelloSign provides an easy-to-use solution for companies to send documents for signature online, track the progress of requests, and get documents signed directly from their device in a safer and faster way than pen and paper. It is trusted by millions of users and recognized as a leading eSignature solution by analyst firms.

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The reasons to switch to electronic signatures are compelling…

Being able to electronically sign a document is great for improving workflows. When you eSign a document, you eliminate the need to print, sign and then scan it. eSigning streamlines the process for completing paperwork and reduces productivity waste.

Some of the other ways electronic signatures are beneficial include:

• Faster turnaround time for completed documents and contracts
• Better security and document tracking
• Lowering your costs
• Eliminating paper waste

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‍Create an electronic signature and eSign documents with HelloSign

An electronic signature, often referred to as an e-signature, is a person's electronic expression of his or her agreement to the terms of a particular document. They are used on every sort of document you can imagine, from NDAs, sales contracts and invoices through to timesheets, employee onboarding paperwork, leases, tax forms and so much more in between. Federally protected by the ESIGN Act of 2000, electronic signatures are as legal as their paper equivalent.

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Find out how to create an electronic signature here

‍Getting started with electronic signatures is quick and easy with HelloSign

Signing a document using HelloSign only takes a few minutes. Here are the steps to eSigning your first document:

1. Create a Hellosign account.
2. Choose who needs to sign (“Just me”, “Me & Others”, or “Just Others”).
3. Upload your document.
4. Sign or add signature fields.
5. Send off your document to the intended recipient.

It really is as simple as that…and what’s more, it’s free! Get some time back in your day, sign up and start signing today.

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Electronic Signature (eSign) FAQs

‍How do I create an electronic signature?

An electronic signature can be created in a number of different ways. For example, it is possible to create an e-signature by drawing it manually using a cursor, finger or stylus. Alternatively, an image of an existing paper signature can be uploaded, turned into a .png file and overlaid onto the signature line of a document. And lastly, an electronic signature can be created by typing it with a keyboard and applying a font that best matches your own style.

Are electronic signatures legal?

Electronic signatures are as legal as a paper signature. They are federally protected in the United States by the ESIGN Act 2000, as well as being protected by various acts and legislations internationally. HelloSign has customers across the world using electronic signatures for documents that require being bound by legality and authenticity, across Europe, Asia and beyond.

What is the ESIGN Act?

The ESIGN Act, or the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, was a piece of legislation passed in 2000 to give eSignatures the same legal status as written, paper signatures.

What are the benefits of eSigning?

The benefits of eSigning include a faster turnaround time for completed documents and contracts, better security and document racking, lower costs and the elimination of paper waste. When you eSign a document, you eliminate the need to print, sign and scan a document.

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