PDFelement
PDFelement: PDF Editor, Scanner
Edit, Convert, Annotate PDF
Edit, Annotate PDF
OPEN OPEN

All About Electronic Signature Act

author avatar

2024-04-18 14:00:40 • Filed to: Signature Tips • Proven solutions

introduction to electronic signature act

In an era where technology has reshaped document management, digital signatures have emerged as a radical tool. They enable swift contracts and transactions with just a few clicks. Yet, during this digital change, there are rules and regulations that must be adhered to. This rule of law ensures the validity and legality of your digital signs.

The Electronic Signature Act serves as the guiding light in this regard. This act keeps the basis of trust and compliance. In this article, you will learn about the Electronic Signature Act, exploring its history and terms. Also, you will discover the tools that allow secure digital signing while complying with this act.

Part 1. Introduction to the Electronic Signature Act

All the digital signs we create for business or personal files find their legitimacy through the ESIGN Act. This law has paved the way for the widespread acceptance of electronic signs. It also serves as the protector against fraudulent signatures. Also, the act confirms the authenticity of digital imprints. It further ensures that papers are free from fake signatures and other risks. Thus, you can sign your important papers with confidence.

History of the Electronic Sign Act

SIGN Act has a long history that reflects the changing scene of commerce in the digital age. It started in response to the growing use of electronic records. Thus, the National Conference on Uniform State Laws made the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA) in 1996. This act aimed to offer legal validity to digital signatures at the state level. While it was a significant step, it didn't create uniformity across all states.

In June 2000, the U.S. Congress passed the Electronic Signature Act, signed by President Bill Clinton. The act was designed to form uniform national standards for electronic signs. It ensured digital signs held the same legal status as traditional pen-and-ink signs. These signs will be legal in interstate and foreign trade.

Requirements of Electronic Sign Act

The ESIGN Act lays out several terms and provisions. These conditions direct the use of digital signatures. The rules include:

Consent

The Act orders that parties must consent to using electronic signs. It ensures that all parties involved are conscious of and agree to the digital format.

Record Retention

The ESIGN Act also demands that digitally signed papers must be recorded. They should be capable of accurate replication for later reference. It ensures the integrity and reliability of e-signed papers.

Document Types

You can sign most of the general documents and transactions. Yet, it explicitly excludes certain types of papers. Notable exceptions include wills, adoption papers, and court notices. It reflects the Act's intention to balance digital convenience and the need for formal processes.

Consumer Disclosure

Companies doing digital transactions with regular people must tell them they're using digital signs. This way, customers know what's happening.

Audit Trails

To make things more secure, the ESIGN Act suggests keeping a record. The record should describe what happens in a digital transaction. It is like keeping a step-by-step history of what went on during the transaction. It will make the things more trustworthy.


Part 2. Electronic Signature Tools – A Feasible Option To Sign Documents Digitally

Imagine a busy executive. You're on a long flight across the continent. Suddenly, you need to sign an important contract. Now, would it be possible to sign the papers from beyond? That's where electronic sign tools come to the rescue.

With these digital tools, you can sign that contract using your device. Even when you're high up in the air, you can keep your business moving smoothly. Thus, digital sign tools are like digital magic pens in this dynamic world. They're the smart way to sign files without any paper hassles. They make signing easy and keep things super safe. Also, they follow the rules of the Electronic Signature Act.

Now, let's bring PDFelement into the story. PDFelement is one of these amazing electronic sign tools. It's like the crownless king of digital document-signing apps.


Part 3. Wondershare PDFelement: A Legitimate Electronic Signature Tool

When it comes to adding digital signs to your papers, Wondershare PDFelement emerges as a trusted ally. It adheres to the Electronic Signature Act. The tool guarantees the legality and security of your digital signs. With PDFelement, you can confidently sign your digital papers. Thus, it's a legitimate and dependable choice for your digital sign needs.

The tool offers both individuals and businesses a seamless e-signing experience. You can also print stamps on your papers using PDFelement. Place your trust in PDFelement to ease your digital signing.

e-Sign Feature of PDFelement

PDFelement boasts a powerful e-Signature feature. Due to this feature, it has become a cost-effective solution in the digital market. This robust feature simplifies the signing process. Whether you're signing contracts, agreements, or any other digital papers, PDFelement ensures a smooth process. You can also request others to sign the documents.

How To Use PDFelement for Electronic Signatures?

Using PDFelement for your document signing can be fruitful for many reasons. It not only maintains the validity of your signs but also tracks the signing progress. Two processes are involved in signing PDF contracts. The first consists of sharing the file with the whole team for signs. In the second step, you need to validate the PDF contract. Let's learn:

How To Send PDF for e-Signatures Using PDFelement?

With PDFelement's Request e-Sign feature, you can effortlessly send PDF papers to many parties. The tool strictly adheres to a variety of legal and governing standards. The process is pretty simple.

PDFelement sends an email invitation to your chosen signers. The tool then prompts them to sign the papers electronically. Once the papers are signed, you and your signers get the PDF document via email. Here's how to do it:

  • Step 1: Download and launch the PDFelement's application. Open the documents on which you need digital signs.
  • Step 2: Navigate to the "Protect" menu and hit the "Request eSign"

request esign pdfelement
  • Step 3: Now, type the signers' email in the "Add Recipient"
  • Step 4: Manage other settings like reminder frequency, order of signatures, etc. Click the "Next" button to proceed forward with the process.
add recipient details pdfelement
  • Step 5: In the next window, fill out the other fields. For example, mention date, title, company, and more. Specify a certain space for each signer.
  • Step 6: After adding all the needed details, click the "Send" button to share the PDF for signing.

finish document sign process pdfelement

How to Sign PDF Contracts with Certificates Using PDFelement?

PDfelement adds the certificate to render your PDF agreement valid and approved. Follow the given steps to sign your PDF contracts with certificates:

  • Step 1: Start by opening your PDF agreement. Locate the "Agreement"
open pdf agreement pdfelement
  • Step 2: Keep an eye out for a notice stating, "Signed and all signatures are valid."
  • Step 3: Now, head over to the "Protect" Click "Manage Signatures." Opt for the "Validate All Signatures" option.
pdfelement validate all signs
  • Step 4: Inside the "Validate All Signatures" window, you can review the specifics of the digital signatures. For example, you can see who signed and when. For a deeper look, click "Certificate Details" within this window.
view certificate info pdfelement
  • Step 5: The window will show further details about the certificate.
sign certificate pdfelement

Part 4. Benefits of Using PDFelement as a Digital Signer

By choosing PDFelement, you will gain access to the following benefits:

  • PDFelement ensures that your digital signs comply with essential legal standards. It means your digital signs are legally valid and secure.
  • The tool offers powerful digital signing capabilities without the high costs. It is affordable compared to other options.
  • Navigating the digital signing process in PDFelement is direct and user-friendly. You don't need to be a tech expert to use it effectively.
  • You can type your name, draw your signs, or upload an existing one. PDFelement offers everything regarding your desired signature style.
  • PDFelement incorporates robust security measures to protect your digital files. You can also set a password, ensuring the integrity of your signed files.
  • You can easily monitor the signing process and track the status of your agreements. Thus, the tool offers whole visibility and control over your PDFs.
  • PDFelement aligns with industry standards such as ISO 27001, HIPAA, and data protection rules like GDPR.
  • You can securely send PDF papers for electronic signs via email. Thus, it simplifies the team signing process.
  • PDFelement is available across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It ensures that you can sign documents regardless of your device.
  • You can foster collaboration by allowing many users to sign PDFs simultaneously.
  • The tool allows you to include official seals, logos, or certification badges as in your PDFs. It is useful for systems or organizations looking to maintain their authenticity.

Conclusion

Compliance with the Electronic Signature Act is a must for digital signing. Following the act's rules is a mark of trust and efficiency. It's clear that digital signatures are here to stay. Also, the significance of adhering to legal standards cannot be ignored. Thus, you must find a tool that obeys the legal policies.

With PDFelement, you can ensure full compliance with the ESIGN Act. Also, you will get a versatile, easy, and cheap digital signing solution. Charge your business with secure and valid digital signs. Make the smart choice – choose PDFelement for your digital sign needs.

Free Download or Buy PDFelement right now!

Free Download or Buy PDFelement right now!

Buy PDFelement right now!

Buy PDFelement right now!

Up to 18% OFF: Choose the right plan for you and your team.

PDFelement for Individuals

Edit, print, convert, eSign, and protect PDFs on Windows PC or Mac.

Perpetual Plan
$129.99 $159
$129.99 $159
PDFelement for Team

Give you the flexibility to provision, track and manage licensing across groups and teams.

Perpetual Plan
$139/user $159
Contact us to learn more about the custom services we can do for you.
author avatar

Audrey Goodwin

chief Editor

(Click to rate this post)

Generally rated4.5(105participated)

Home > Signature Tips > All About Electronic Signature Act
Increase your productivity today.