
Visit this Microsoft support page for instructions on creating your certificate. 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.

In addition to the use cases outlined above, organizations in every industry can find value in the security, efficiency, and positive customer experience created by OneSpan Sign Electronic Signatures.Electronic signatures have revolutionized the way we handle documents.

Electronic signatures, e-forms, and digital processes are being used online, in the call center, and in the branch to expedite the agreement process.Įlectronic Signatures can shorten the long Wealth Management sales process typically involving multiple meetings and frequent document errors.Īs more mortgages and refinances move online for increased convenience and speed, electronic signatures are the ideal solution to bring the digital experience into the customer’s home and make it convenient, secure, and compliant. The most common areas for electronic signature in lending are consumer loans, small business loans, and retail finance. The need for a remote onboarding and agreement process has grown from a competitive advantage to a business necessity. The ability to onboard customers from anywhere.
