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What is a Wet Signature?
Wet signatures are handwritten imprints of approval on physical documents with a pen. Today, electronic signatures carry the same legal weight as wet signatures. With Sign.Plus, you can easily digitize your physical signature for a better signing experience.
Wet signature by definition
By definition, wet signatures are a traditional method of signing a document by physically using a pen against paper. Wet signatures are often referred to as wet ink signatures because the ink from the pen is still wet when the document is signed.
When should you use a wet signature?
While electronic signatures are legally binding, and hold the same weight as wet signatures thanks to global regulations and standards, there are going to be occasions when a wet signature is still required. For example:
- Notarized documents
- Deeds of trust or wills
- Mortgages and other real estate transactions
- Marriage licenses
Quick steps to capture a wet ink signature
Send the Digital Document: Begin by providing the signer with a digital file (PDF or Word) that clearly designates an area for their handwritten signature.
Print the Document: Instruct the recipient to print the document, transforming the digital file into a physical paper ready for manual signing.
Sign by Hand: The signer then uses a pen to inscribe their signature on the printed paper, ensuring an authentic wet ink signature.
Convert to Digital Format: After signing, use the Sign.plus app to scan the document. This tool not only digitizes the signed paper but also facilitates its secure submission for signature verification.
Return the Scanned Document: Finally, the scanned file is sent back—whether by email upload or a designated portal—completing the process efficiently.
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What is the difference between wet, electronic and digital signatures?
For decades, electronic signatures that comply with the ESIGN Act and UETA guidelines have been recognized in the United States as having the same legal weight as wet, or handwritten, signatures. Since then, electronic signatures have become more common internationally, supported by regulations such as eIDAS in EU, or ZertES in Switzerland, as a way for individuals and businesses to efficiently sign legally binding signatures online. No contract, signature, or record can therefore be denied legal impact simply because it is in electronic format.
You might already be familiar with the terms "electronic" and "digital" signatures as they are more frequently used by people and businesses. However, there are key differences between these two types of signatures and wet signatures:
You might already be familiar with the terms "electronic" and "digital" signatures as they are more frequently used by people and businesses. However, there are key differences between these two types of signatures and wet signatures:
Wet Signatures
A handwritten signature created with ink on a physical document. They are often called "wet," because of the ink used to sign the paper.
Electronic Signatures
A digital form of a signature on an electronic document.
It can include typed names, scans of wet signatures, or can be created with a stylus or finger on a touchscreen.
Digital Signatures
A form of electronic signature offering enhanced security using a digital certificate that is cryptographically linked to the document, ensuring authenticity and integrity of the signed document.
Are wet signatures more secure than eSignatures?
Digital signatures are more secure than wet signatures as they cannot be easily forged. Physical documents with wet signatures are also vulnerable to being lost, damaged, or tampered with. This can be problematic in large-scale operations, where human error is a significant risk.
Solutions like Sign.Plus enhance security by providing a secure storage, as well as a certificate of completion for all signed documents, recording names, IP addresses, devices, and more. With every action traceable and unalterable, electronic signature solutions are the most secure method of signing contracts today.
Solutions like Sign.Plus enhance security by providing a secure storage, as well as a certificate of completion for all signed documents, recording names, IP addresses, devices, and more. With every action traceable and unalterable, electronic signature solutions are the most secure method of signing contracts today.
Why are companies shifting from wet signatures to electronic signatures?
Enterprises can be faced with a handful of challenges when collecting wet ink signatures including:
- Time-consuming processes
- Risk of loss and damage
- Human errors
- Costs
- Lengthy turnaround time
- Environmental expense
- Security risks
In contrast, using secure eSignature platforms like Sign.Plus offers numerous benefits:
- Streamlined operations
- Online storage
- Digital efficiency and accessibility via mobile app
- Cost savings
- Automated tracking
- Environmental responsibility
- Increased security and compliance
Do business documents require a wet signature?
Many business documents still rely on the authenticity and legal weight of a wet signature. In certain contexts, such as contracts or agreements with stringent legal requirements, a traditional wet ink signature is preferred over digital alternatives. However, with evolving regulations, many jurisdictions accept electronic signatures for everyday transactions. It’s important to check the specific requirements for your document, as some legal or financial documents may mandate a genuine wet signature to ensure compliance and avoid disputes.
Which industries and sectors require a web ink signature?
Certain industries continue to require or prefer the use of wet signatures due to established legal standards and regulatory mandates. For instance:
- Legal and Real Estate: Many contracts, deeds, and affidavits demand a wet ink signature to confirm authenticity.
- Banking and Finance: Financial institutions often require a handwritten signature to validate sensitive transactions.
- Healthcare: Consent forms and medical records sometimes need a physical signature for extra security.
- Government & Regulatory: Various permits and official documents still call for a traditional wet signature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name for wet ink signatures?
Occasionally, a "wet signature" is known under various names, most commonly as a handwritten signature, physical signature or traditional signature.
What is the best alternative to a wet signature?
Can a wet signature be electronic?
Yes, a wet signature can be converted to an electronic format. One of the most straightforward ways to digitize a wet signature is by scanning it with an online scanner app like Scan.Plus. However, it's integrity can easily be compromised due to lack of security measures.
Does an electronic signature need to match a wet ink signature?
No, your electronic signature does not need to match your wet, or handwritten, signature. You have the choice to select a unique electronic signature through eSignature platforms like Sign.Plus. Play around with our eSignature generator to test it.
What is an original signature?
An original signature is the authentic, handwritten mark made by an individual to verify identity. Typically executed in pen and ink, it serves as a legally binding testament to one’s consent and agreement.
Does a wet signature have to be in cursive?
No, a wet signature does not need to be in cursive. Whether it’s a full signature, initials, or a unique mark, the key is that it is a manually produced, original mark that the signer consistently uses.
What does wet signature mean?
A wet signature refers to a signature that is physically inscribed on paper using ink. This traditional method—often called a wet ink signature—demonstrates the signer’s intent and is recognized for its legal validity, forming the basis of the wet signature definition in legal and business settings.
Can a wet signature be scanned?
Yes, a wet signature can be scanned to create a digital copy. While the scanned version provides convenience, it’s essential to verify if the specific document or jurisdiction accepts a digitized wet ink signature as legally binding.
Does an electronic signature need to match a wet ink signature?
Not necessarily. An electronic signature is designed to be secure and verifiable in its own right. It does not have to mirror the handwritten wet ink signature exactly, as both methods serve the purpose of confirming agreement in different, yet legally accepted, ways.
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Built with support from
Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft
Confédération Suisse
Confederazione Svizzera
Confederaziun Svizra
Swiss Confederation
Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency
Confédération Suisse
Confederazione Svizzera
Confederaziun Svizra
Swiss Confederation
Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency
