Wet Signature vs Electronic Signatures: What are the differences?

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.
what is wet signature

Wet signatures 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.

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.

When should you use a wet signature?

  • Notarized documents

  • Deeds of trust or wills

  • Mortgages and other real estate transactions

  • Marriage licenses

Electronic signatures definition

By definition, an electronic signature, is a digital method of signing documents that replaces the traditional wet signature. Electronic signatures use secure, encrypted technology to verify a signer's identity and intent, ensuring that the document remains authentic and tamper-evident.

While they are legally binding and hold the same weight as wet signatures under global regulations and standards, there are instances where a wet signature may still be required.

When should you use an esignature?

  • Business contracts and service agreements

  • Purchase orders and invoices

  • Employment and HR documents

  • Consent forms and digital authorizations

What is the difference between wet and electronic signatures?

For many years, electronic signatures that adhere to ESIGN and UETA guidelines have been accepted as legally equivalent to traditional handwritten (wet) signatures in the United States. Their acceptance has expanded globally under regulations like the EU’s eIDAS and Switzerland's ZertES, enabling individuals and businesses to execute binding agreements online with speed and security. Unlike a physical signature made with pen and ink, an electronic signature is applied digitally, ensuring that a contract or record retains its legal authority regardless of its format.

While the terms "electronic" and "digital" signatures are often used interchangeably, they differ significantly from the conventional wet signature in their creation and application.

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.

Are wet signatures more secure than eSignatures?

Digital signatures provide a stronger layer of security than traditional wet signatures since they are far more resistant to forgery. In contrast, paper documents bearing wet signatures can be misplaced, altered, or damaged—challenges that are magnified in environments with large volumes and increased human error.

Platforms like Sign.Plus improve this process by ensuring secure storage and issuing a certificate of completion for each signed document, which logs essential details such as names, IP addresses, and devices used. With every step recorded in an unchangeable manner, electronic signature solutions have become the most secure method for executing contracts today.

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Why are companies shifting from wet signatures to digital 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

Want to eSign documents or send documents for signature?

Start the free trial now and enjoy all the benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another name for wet ink signatures?
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Occasionally, a "wet signature" is known under various names, most commonly as a handwritten signature,  physical signature or traditional signature.
Can a wet signature be electronic?
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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?
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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.

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