How to make a signature in PDF forms
Adding a signature to a PDF document is a common need for professionals handling agreements, contracts, or forms digitally. ONLYOFFICE offers a streamlined solution for signing PDF documents, accessible through the cloud and desktop versions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a signature in PDF forms using ONLYOFFICE editors.
What is an electronic signature?
An electronic signature is a digital representation of a handwritten signature that allows users to sign documents electronically. It can be a scanned image of a handwritten signature or a digital signature based on cryptography to verify identity and ensure document integrity. Electronic signatures are widely used in business and law, as they provide the convenience of digital document management and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Why sign PDF forms?
Signing PDF forms digitally offers various advantages. It enhances security by embedding the signature directly into the document, making it harder to alter without detection. Additionally, it saves time, allowing signers to approve contracts and forms instantly rather than printing, signing by hand, and scanning them back. It also provides a more eco-friendly solution by reducing the need for paper. For businesses, adding to PDFs electronic signatures means efficient management of contracts and agreements while ensuring security and accessibility.
How to make a signature in PDF forms online
ONLYOFFICE Docs version 8.2 introduced signatures for PDF forms. Users can sign forms by inserting an image. This feature is handy for users who prefer to add a personal touch by inserting a picture of their handwritten signature.
To sign a PDF form in ONLYOFFICE Docs:
1. Open the form in ONLYOFFICE PDF Editor.
2. Fill in all required fields in the document. Check for correctness to avoid typos and misclicks. Once you add a signature to the PDF form, you approve it.
3. Navigate to the signature field. It is usually placed at the end of the form. Click on the image icon in the signature field.
4. Insert the image file of your signature by selecting the option to upload Image from file, Image from URL, or Image from storage and click OK.
The signature field supports popular image formats, like PNG or JPEG. The file should not exceed 25 MB.
The signature will appear in the signature field and will be automatically adjusted to the size of the field.
5. Once the signature is in place, save the document to finalize the signed form.
If you are filling out a form in a form filling room in ONLYOFFICE DocSpace, simply click Complete & Submit.
ONLYOFFICE Docs currently supports signature images. More signature types are planned for future updates.
How to sign a PDF form in ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors
For users who work primarily offline, free desktop apps for Windows, Linux, and macOS ONLYOFFICE Desktop Editors also provide the possibility to make a signature in PDF form.
To sign the document, follow the same steps outlined above.
In the desktop version, you will be able to sign a document with a file uploaded from your device.
How to add a signature field in PDF forms
If you are creating forms, document templates, contracts, agreements, or other legal documents that require completion and signatures, adding a signature field can make it easier for the person filling them out. This small step makes it clear exactly where the signature should appear, reducing the chance of confusion or errors and allowing the document to be signed electronically.
To add a signature field in your PDF form in ONLYOFFICE editors, follow these steps:
1. Create a fillable form in ONLYOFFICE PDF Editor from scratch or using the existing Word document.
2. Place the cursor in the document where the signature field should appear.
3. In the Forms tab, select the Signature field and click it.
4. Adjust the size and position of the field if necessary.
5. In the right-side toolbar, define additional settings such as role, Key, Placeholder, Tip, Border, and background colors.
6. Save the document.
That’s it. Now you can send your template for signature to your partners, clients, or colleagues.
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