Are Electronic Signatures Legal?
You signed a PDF on your screen, but does that actually count? In most places, yes, for everyday agreements. Here is the general picture (this is not legal advice).
The short answer
In the United States (under the ESIGN Act and UETA), the EU (under eIDAS) and many other countries, a basic electronic signature, including a typed or drawn one, is legally accepted for most everyday agreements, as long as both parties intend to sign and agree to do so electronically.
Common exceptions
Some documents still require a handwritten or notarized signature, such as wills, certain property transfers, court filings and some family-law papers. Rules vary by country and state, so check the requirement for your specific document.
What makes an e-signature hold up
- Intent: the signer clearly meant to sign.
- Consent: both sides agreed to sign electronically.
- A record: the signed document is kept as evidence.
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