#Electronic signature on mac word software#

But for now, e-signatures are a convenient and legally legitimate way to sign even the most important documents. We’ve come a long way from the fax machines of the 80s, and when it comes to e-signatures, new trends will continue to change the way we work. Electronic signatures demonstrate that new technology can modernize even something as simple as signing your name. Conveniently signing with modern technologyĪs technology continues to develop, nearly every aspect of our lives is affected. This is the more common option, and the visible marker will make the document suitable for printing. If you’re unsure about which signature type to use, you should add a visible signature line.

Click the arrow next to the signature name.

Once a file is digitally signed, it will become a read-only document to prevent any further changes.

Type the purpose for signing the document in the dialog box.

You can add an invisible digital signature to a Word document by completing the following steps:

An invisible signature, on the other hand, only attaches the metadata, which protects the integrity of the document.

A visible signature includes both metadata and a visible marker within the document. This metadata is a way of ensuring the document’s authenticity without altering its content.īoth visible and invisible signatures involve the use of metadata. Rather, an invisible signature adds only metadata to the document file. Unlike the signature lines mentioned above, an invisible digital signature doesn’t add any marks or text within the document. Invisible signature? Isn’t that an oxymoron? If you wish to remove a signature from a Word document, right-click on the signature line and select Remove Signature. If you’re using a touchscreen device, you can actually sign your name on the screen. There’s also an option to upload an image of your signature, which can be done by clicking Select Image. You can choose to add a text signature by typing your name next to the X. Word gives you two options for signing the document. When you sign a Word document, your e-signature includes both a visual representation and a digital certificate (as mentioned above). Sign the document in as little as two steps In addition, you can enable checkboxes to include the signing date and allow the signer to add comments. The Signature Setup window contains areas that specify the intended signer name, title, and email address.

Complete the fields in the Signature Setup window.

Select Signature Line followed by Microsoft Office Signature Line.

Move your cursor to the space where you wish to insert the line, then follow these three steps: If you’re sending the file to another individual for signing, you can include instructions and other information on the signature line.Ĭreating a signature line is a simple process. In Word, a signature line is similar to the line you’d sign on a traditional document but with additional features. Visit this Microsoft support page for instructions on creating your certificate.

#Electronic signature on mac word software#

In Windows, the process for creating your own certificate depends on the software version you’re using. While a third-party certificate is more official, creating your own can be convenient.

You can receive a certificate from a third-party authority or create your own personal certificate. It’s included (along with a public key) when you send a digitally signed document.ĭigital certificates can be obtained in one of two ways. This digital certificate is what confirms your identity. In order to add electronic signatures to your Word documents, you’ll need a signing certificate. This post will explain digitally signing Word documents as well as removing them.Ī digital certificate makes the signature official You can add electronic signatures to a variety of file types, including Word documents, Excel files, and even PowerPoint slides. Since electronic signatures are legally recognized, they can be used on virtually any document that requires a signature (business agreements, real estate contracts, loan applications, etc.). They often include a digital encryption key to verify the identity of the signer and establish a legally binding confirmation. Today, electronic signatures are more sophisticated. Perhaps the oldest account of electronic signature enforceability dates back to 1869 when the New Hampshire Supreme Court determined that messages sent over telegraph could be considered binding agreements. For example, the popularity of fax machines in the 1980s led to the transmission of many important, signed documents via fax. They’ve been developing alongside various technological advancements for decades. What used to require a pen and paper can now be done conveniently with digital tools.Įlectronic signatures are not a new concept. Electronic signatures have revolutionized the way we handle documents.