What is an electronic signature?

Discover the easy, secure, and legal way to sign documents online in seconds. An electronic signature, also known as an esign, e-signature, or online signature, is the digital version of a traditional signature. It serves as proof that a person has agreed to the contents of a document. Unlike a wet signature, which is made with pen and paper, an electronic signature is created and stored online. At Sign.Plus, we provide secure esignature services that help users sign documents quickly and safely.

Are electronic signatures legal?

Yes. When an electronic signature is created using secure technology with proper authentication and record keeping, it holds the same legal weight as a traditional wet signature in many places. The technology behind digital signatures ensures robust security and compliance, which is why they are recognized as legally valid.

How does an electronic signature work?

An electronic signature works by using special technology that secures and verifies your identity. When you sign a document with sign.plus, your signature is created with methods like encryption, digital certificates, and timestamps. This process protects the integrity of the document and confirms that the signature is genuine.

What is the difference between a digital signature, an electronic signature, an online signature and a wet ink signature?

An electronic signature is a general term covering all forms of digital signing. A digital signature is a specific type of electronic signature that uses cryptography to protect and verify your signature. An online signature refers to any signature created through a web-based service like sign.plus. A wet ink signature is the traditional method of signing with pen and paper.

Should my electronic signature look like my handwritten signature?

Your electronic signature does not have to look exactly like your handwritten wet signature. Some people prefer to replicate their handwritten style, while others create a new digital design. The key is that the signature is secure and verifiable, which Sign.Plus ensures with its advanced technology.

Signature

Is a typed signature legal?

Is a Typed Signature Legal and Valid? A Beginner’s Guide

Name: Sign.Plus - Online Signature Generator
Brand: Sign.Plus
Rating: 4.7 (350 reviews)

Yes—a typed signature can be both legal and valid, provided it meets certain requirements under electronic-signature laws such as the ESIGN Act in the U.S. and eIDAS in the EU. This guide explains how typed signatures work, their legality, and when you might need stronger signature methods.

What Is a Typed Signature?

A typed signature is a plain-text version of your name entered into a form or document. Examples include:

Simple text entry: Jane Doe or /s/Jane Doe
Image of a handwritten signature: Digitally inserted into documents
Digital or cryptographic signatures: Offer higher security through encryption

Not all methods or platforms provide the same legal assurance. For important documents, using reputable e-signature software like Sign.Plus is highly recommended.

Legal Validity of Typed Signatures

United States Framework

In the U.S., electronic signatures—including typed signatures—are covered by the ESIGN Act (2000) and UETA (1999). These signatures are legally enforceable provided parties consent and intent to sign electronically is clear.

Example: Sending an employment contract by email with typed signatures can be legally binding if both parties clearly express consent.

EU Framework

Under the EU's eIDAS Regulation (2016), typed signatures qualify as basic electronic signatures, valid across EU member states if consent and intent are clearly documented.

Example: A freelancer in Germany agrees via typed signature on a digital contract, making it legally binding within the EU.

Other Jurisdictions

Countries like Canada (PIPEDA), the UK (Electronic Communications Act), and Australia (Electronic Transactions Act) also accept typed signatures, provided key elements like consent, intent, and authentication are satisfied. However, there may be unique exceptions or extra requirements specific to each jurisdiction.

Key Requirements for a Valid Typed Signature

For a typed signature to be legally valid, it must fulfill the following:

Intent to Sign: Clearly demonstrates agreement to be bound by the document
Consent to Electronic Signing: Agreement from all involved parties to conduct transactions electronically
Attribution/Authentication: Clearly linked to the signer through an email or secure login
Integrity of Document: Use of audit trails and tamper-evident technologies
Record Retention: Compliant storage of documents and audit logs according to local laws

When Typed Signatures Are Not Valid

High-Risk Documents: Wills, real estate deeds, and court filings often require notarization or witnesses
Jurisdictional Exceptions: Some countries demand QES or wet-ink signatures for particular agreements
Industry Regulations: Sectors such as finance, healthcare, or government often require stronger signature methods

How Typed Signatures Work

Using e-signature platforms like Sign.Plus, the process involves:

Document Preparation: Adding digital signature fields
Signer Authentication: Verifying signer identity via email or secure login
Audit Log Creation & Document Locking: Ensuring document integrity and security

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Typed vs. Electronic vs. Digital Signatures

Typed signatures are a type of electronic signature. Electronic signatures may also include drawings, clicks, or biometric methods. Digital signatures use advanced cryptography for verification and security.

Typed Signature (Electronic)

Handwritten Signature

Digital Certificate Signature

Ease of Use

Very High

Moderate

Moderate to Low

Security Level

Medium

Low

High

Auditability

High (with platform)

Low

Very High

Cost

Low

Moderate

High

Best Practices, Common Mistakes and Common Use Cases when Using Typed Signatures

Best Practices

Use reputable platforms like Sign.Plus with built-in audit trails
Obtain explicit consent via checkboxes or "I agree" buttons
Preserve metadata and audit logs to confirm authenticity
Include clear disclosure statements on electronic signature legality
Educate signers about maintaining security (e.g., strong passwords)

Common Mistakes

Skipping a consent checkbox
Using unsecured email links
Not locking the document after signing
Manually inserting signature images without audit trails
Failing to retain secure copies of signed documents and audit logs
Overlooking local legal exceptions for specific documents

Common Use Cases

Employment contracts and offer letters
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)
Purchase orders and invoices
HR onboarding forms
Real-estate disclosures (where legally allowed)

FAQs

Is "/s/ Jane Doe" enough?

Yes, it typically is, especially when clear consent and intent are documented.

Can I type my signature in Word and email it?

Yes, but using an e-signature platform like Sign.Plus provides stronger legal protection through audit trails and authentication.

What if the other party disputes the signature’s validity?

Having detailed audit logs from a trusted platform like Sign.Plus can confirm the identity and intent of signers.

Is typing my name at the end of an email a valid signature?

It can be, depending on context, but explicit intent and consent are crucial.

How do I add a typed signature in Microsoft Word or Google Docs?

Simply type your name or insert a signature line. For stronger protection, use platforms with secure logging features.

Can I use a free online tool for legally binding typed signatures?

You can, but paid platforms typically offer stronger audit trails and legal security.

What happens if someone disputes a typed signature?

Detailed audit trails from reputable platforms like Sign.Plus help resolve disputes effectively.

What happens if a document is altered after signing?

Secure platforms detect changes and invalidate signatures if tampered with.

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