What is an electronic signature?

Electronic Signature or e-signature refers to a digital method of obtaining a person's signature on an electronic document, such as a contract or agreement. It is an electronic equivalent of a paper-based or wet-ink signature. 

In contrast to traditional paper-based signatures, e-signature offers several advantages, such as convenience, speed, and cost savings. In addition, it allows for remote signing, eliminating the need for physical presence, printing, scanning, and mailing of documents. 

Electronic signatures are recognized as legally valid in the US under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (E-SIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA). Both acts establish a legal framework for using electronic signatures and records in commercial and consumer transactions, allowing electronic signatures to have the same legal standing on most documents as paper-based signatures.