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Last updated on Sep 13, 2026

Request eSignature

Request eSignature to send documents for electronic signing quickly and securely, without needing complex software.

What is the eSignature Request Workflow?

The eSignature request workflow is a straightforward process that allows you to send documents for electronic signatures efficiently. To request eSignature, you can utilize features like multi-signer support and a secure email link, ensuring that your documents are signed quickly and securely. This process is legally binding and does not require recipients to create an account, making it accessible for everyone involved. By avoiding complicated processes, you can focus on what matters: getting your documents signed without delays.

How Does the eSignature Request Workflow Work?

  • Prepare your document for signing.
  • Access the eSignature request process through your preferred platform.
  • Add recipients by entering their email addresses.
  • Assign roles to each recipient based on their signing needs.
  • Configure the signing order if necessary.
  • Set automated reminders to prompt recipients to sign.
  • Review the document and ensure all fields are correctly assigned.
  • Send the eSignature request to all recipients.

Uploading Documents for eSignature Requests

To request eSignature, you first need to upload your documents. Supported file formats include PDF, DOCX, and others. You can easily drag-and-drop your files into the upload area or use integration options to import documents directly from cloud storage. Be mindful of file size limits to ensure a smooth upload process. Avoid unsupported formats, as they will not be processed for eSignature requests.

Adding Signature and Form Fields

When you request eSignature, you can add fields for signatures and other necessary information. Switch to the Add fields mode to begin. Assign the required fields to each recipient based on their roles and save your changes. Always preview the document to ensure that no fields are missing before sending it out for signatures. This step is crucial for multi-signer support, as it ensures that each signer knows where to sign.

Managing Recipients for eSignature Requests

Understanding how to manage recipients in the eSignature request process is essential. You can add signers and viewers by entering their email addresses and assigning roles. Set the signing order to dictate who signs first and edit recipient details as needed. Clear management of recipient roles helps avoid confusion during the signing process and ensures that everyone knows their responsibilities.

Configuring Signing Order: Sequential vs. Parallel

When you request eSignature, you can define the signing order for your documents. Sequential signing means that each recipient must sign in order, while parallel signing allows multiple recipients to sign at the same time. Knowing when to use each method can impact your workflow significantly. For instance, sequential signing is ideal for contracts that require approval in a specific order, whereas parallel signing is useful for documents needing quick turnaround.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Requesting eSignatures

  • Select the document you wish to send for eSignature.
  • Add the necessary fields for signatures and other information.
  • Enter the email addresses of all recipients.
  • Assign roles and configure the signing order as needed.
  • Set automated reminders to ensure timely signing.
  • Review the document for any missing fields or errors.
  • Send the eSignature request to all recipients.
  • Track the signing progress through your dashboard.

Tracking the Status of eSignature Requests

To monitor the signing progress of your requests, you can view pending signatures in your dashboard. If necessary, resend requests to recipients who have not yet signed. You also have the option to cancel requests if needed. Checking the audit trail ensures that you have a record of all actions taken during the eSignature request process, providing transparency and accountability.

Setting Reminders and Expiration Deadlines

When you request eSignature, it’s important to set reminders and expiration deadlines for your requests. You can configure reminders to notify recipients at specified intervals, ensuring they do not forget to sign. Additionally, setting expiration dates helps manage deadlines effectively, prompting recipients to act before the request becomes invalid. This proactive approach minimizes the chances of missed deadlines.

The Importance of the Audit Trail

The audit trail is a critical component of the eSignature request process. It captures all actions taken during the signing process, providing a legally binding record. Access to audit logs ensures compliance with legal standards and offers peace of mind. Understanding the significance of the audit trail can help you maintain transparency and accountability in your document signing processes.

How Does pdfFiller Compare?

DocuSign offers extensive features but can be complex for small businesses. pdfFiller simplifies the process with no IT setup required.

Adobe Acrobat Sign is known for its PDF capabilities but may be too costly for SMBs. pdfFiller provides affordable solutions with ready-to-use templates.

PandaDoc focuses on document creation and management but lacks straightforward eSignature workflows. pdfFiller streamlines eSignature requests without additional steps.

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How to send a document for signature?

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Collect legally binding electronic signatures the easy way

  • Edit, sign, send — done! Quickly edit documents online, add signatures, and send for signing — all from one easy-to-use solution you can access from anywhere.
  • Customize your workflow Send documents to a single recipient or an entire group. Assign roles, set a signing order, and schedule reminders for a smooth, error-free process.
  • Collect data efficiently Create fillable PDF forms and let your recipients complete them from any device. Publish forms online or share them via a direct link to capture data and signatures without chasing people down.
  • Track and store documents Get real-time visibility into the signing process and keep track of all your documents in one place. Your files are stored in secure cloud storage, so you can access them anytime and anywhere.
  • Share & collaborate Need more eyes on a document before sending? Share it with the team to edit or highlight content, redact sensitive information, leave feedback, and exchange comments.
  • Maintain security & compliance Collect signatures in compliance with ESIGN, UETA, eIDAS, and GDPR. Protect your documents with a password, request additional signer authentication, set document expiration dates, and more.

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Quickly edit contracts, add eSignatures, and send them to clients or vendors for signing without leaving pdfFiller. Track who has signed and who still needs to take action, keeping your business running smoothly.

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FAQs

If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us anytime!

To request an eSignature using pdfFiller, simply upload your document, click on the 'Request eSignature' option, and enter the email addresses of your signers. This straightforward process allows you to send documents for signing quickly and securely. Once you've set up your document, you can customize the signing fields to ensure that signers know exactly where to sign. For optimal results, always verify that the email addresses are correct to avoid delays in the signing process.

To ensure the security of your documents when requesting eSignatures, pdfFiller employs advanced encryption protocols and secure cloud storage. When you request an eSignature, your document is protected with SSL encryption, which safeguards it during transmission. Additionally, you can set access permissions and expiration dates for your documents, enhancing security further. Always review the security settings in your pdfFiller account to maintain control over your sensitive information.

Yes, you can request multiple eSignatures on a single document using pdfFiller. After uploading your document, simply add multiple signing fields for each signer. This feature is particularly useful for contracts or agreements that require approval from several parties. To streamline the process, you can also set the order in which signers receive the document, ensuring that each party signs in the correct sequence. This not only saves time but also enhances the document's integrity.

If a signer does not receive the eSignature request, first check that you entered the correct email address when you requested the eSignature. If the email is correct, ask the signer to check their spam or junk folder, as automated emails can sometimes be filtered incorrectly. Additionally, you can resend the request directly from your pdfFiller account. For future requests, consider using a follow-up reminder feature to ensure timely responses from signers.

Yes, pdfFiller allows you to track the status of your eSignature requests in real-time. Once you send a document for signing, you can view whether it is pending, signed, or declined directly from your dashboard. This tracking feature provides transparency and helps you manage your document workflow efficiently. For better organization, consider categorizing your documents based on their signing status to streamline your document management process.

pdfFiller offers seamless integration with various platforms such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft Office. When you request an eSignature, you can easily import documents from these services, enhancing your document management workflow. This cross-platform compatibility enables you to work efficiently across different tools without losing access to your files. To maximize productivity, explore the integration settings in your pdfFiller account to connect with your preferred platforms.

Using pdfFiller for requesting eSignatures offers numerous benefits over traditional methods, such as enhanced speed, security, and convenience. Unlike paper-based signatures, eSignatures can be requested and completed instantly, reducing turnaround time significantly. Additionally, pdfFiller’s cloud-based platform ensures that your documents are stored securely and are accessible from anywhere. For a more efficient workflow, consider utilizing pdfFiller’s document automation features to streamline repetitive tasks associated with signing and managing documents.

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