What is e-signature

An electronic signature (also called e-signature or esignature) is the digital version of your handwritten signature.

It’s a legally recognized way to agree to terms, authorize actions, or approve documents, all without printing or scanning.

In many countries, including the US and EU, e-signatures are legally binding under regulations like ESIGN and eIDAS.

That means signing documents electronically is just as valid as doing it with a pen, and way more convenient.

Person signing a paper contract by hand while another person signs digitally on a tablet, illustrating the contrast between traditional and electronic signatures

Where it’s used

Electronic signatures are everywhere – and that’s a good thing. You’ll see them in:

  • Business contracts
  • Freelance agreements
  • HR onboarding
  • Rental or lease documents
  • Medical consent forms
  • Sales proposals
  • NDAs and legal documents

Basically, if it needs a signature, you can sign the document online. Especially now, when remote work is the norm, the ability to sign documents electronically saves time and hassle for everyone involved.

People reviewing and signing various business documents, with one person signing digitally on a tablet labeled “Agreement” and others using pens on printed contracts and charts

Why people use it

The biggest advantage? Speed. With electronic signature online tools, you can close deals or get approvals in minutes – not days. But that’s just the start. Here’s what else you get:

  • Convenience: Sign from anywhere, anytime, on any device
  • Security: Encrypted and tamper-proof
  • Efficiency: No printing, scanning, or mailing
  • Cost-saving: Cut down on paper, ink, and storage
  • Eco-friendly: Less paper means less waste

Whether you’re a solo freelancer or part of a legal team, the ability to electronically sign a document simplifies your workflow and speeds up your business.

Popular e-sign tools

There are plenty of tools out there that help you sign documents electronically, including:

  • DocuChain - A free and secure e-signature tool with encryption, status tracking, and a simple interface. Ideal for both teams and individual users
  • DocuSign – One of the earliest and most widely used platforms
  • Adobe Acrobat Sign – Great for businesses already using Adobe products
  • HelloSign – A simple, clean interface for startups and small teams
  • SignNow – Good for integrations and automation

Most of these platforms offer some kind of free trial or limited free version. But if you’re looking for a completely electronic signature free solution, we’ve got something better.

Try DocuChain

DocuChain is a modern, secure, and free electronic signature tool designed for individuals and teams. You can create an e-signature, send documents for signing, and track the status – all in a few clicks. No paywalls, no hidden fees.

Need a walkthrough? Here’s how to create a digital signature with DocuChain – simple, fast, and legally binding.

Person about to tap “Sign document” on a tablet screen displaying a digital signature and a green checkmark, highlighting the simplicity of using electronic signature tools like DocuChain.

Create Digital Signature

Drag and drop PDF upload area to eSign your documents quickly and easily on DocuChain

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