Someone sends you a contract as a PDF and asks for your signature. You don't need a printer, a pen or a scanner — a signed PDF carries your mark digitally, and in most countries that signature holds up in court.
Two kinds of signature
An electronic signature is the simplest form — a typed name, a drawn squiggle, or an uploaded image of your handwritten signature placed on the page. A digital signature is cryptographically stronger: it binds your identity to the document using a certificate, so any later tampering breaks the signature. Both are legally accepted in most contexts; digital signatures are stricter.
How to sign one
Open the PDF, drop your signature onto the right spot, and save. With Flint you can sign a PDF by drawing, typing or uploading an image. Once placed, your signature becomes part of the document. You can also send the PDF to someone else for their signature, and Flint tracks the round trip.
What signed PDFs prove
A signed PDF shows who signed, when, and (with digital signatures) that nothing has changed since. That trail is why HR departments, landlords and banks accept signed PDFs — they're easier to audit than paper. Keep the signed file safely; emailing a copy to yourself is a quick way to back it up.
FAQ
Is an electronic signature legally binding?
In most countries — UK, EU, US, Australia — yes, for the vast majority of agreements. A handful of documents (some wills, certain property transfers) still need wet ink. Check your local rules for big-ticket contracts.
Can I remove a signature from a PDF?
If it's your own electronic signature and you haven't flattened the PDF, yes. Digital (cryptographic) signatures are harder to remove — that's the point. They're designed to be tamper-evident.
Do I need a special certificate to sign?
Not for everyday electronic signatures. For digital signatures with cryptographic identity, you'd need a certificate from a trust provider. Most personal and small-business use stays with electronic signatures.
Got a contract waiting on your name? Sign it in Flint and the whole thing — drawing, placing, saving — takes about a minute.