Guides to electronic signatures in the UK
Plain-English answers about signing documents online: what the law says, how to get a document signed, and how to prove it afterwards.
- Are electronic signatures legal in the UK?
Yes, for most documents. How UK law treats electronic signatures, the three types, what courts have accepted, and when you need something more.
- Which documents can’t be signed electronically in the UK?
Wills, lasting powers of attorney, deeds, and documents that need a solicitor or notary have special rules. What they are and what to do instead.
- How to get a PDF signed online
Upload a PDF, place the signature fields, send a private link and download the signed copy. A step-by-step guide for the UK.
- How to get a document signed by several people
Set the signing order, deadline and reminders so a document with several signers gets finished without you chasing. A practical guide.
- How to prove an electronic signature
What evidence shows who signed an electronic document and that it has not changed: the activity trail, the document fingerprint and how to check them.
- Electronic signature vs digital signature: what’s the difference?
An electronic signature is any electronic way of signing. A digital signature is one specific, certificate-based technique. What each means and which you need.
- Simple, advanced and qualified electronic signatures in the UK
The three levels of electronic signature under UK law, what each requires, an example of each, and how to choose the right one for a document.
- Can you sign a tenancy agreement electronically in the UK?
Most tenancy agreements can be signed electronically. When a lease needs to be a deed, what landlords should keep, and what is separate from the signature.
- Can you sign an employment contract electronically in the UK?
Employment contracts, offer letters and policies can normally be signed electronically. What employers should send and keep, and when to take advice.
- How to sign a PDF on your phone (iPhone and Android)
Sign a PDF on an iPhone or Android phone with a built-in tool, or sign a document someone has sent you using just a link. No app needed.
- How to sign a Word document electronically
How to add a signature to a Word document, why it is better to send it as a PDF, and how to get other people to sign it.
- How to get a freelance contract signed
A simple way for UK freelancers and small businesses to agree terms before work starts: what to put in, how to send it, and how to keep a clean record.