In the United States, electronic signatures are legally binding in nearly all states. Businesses and individuals can enter into contracts and sign documents electronically without worrying about the signature’s validity.
However, a few states, like New York, have alternative laws addressing electronic signatures. As a result, it is vital to know the laws in your state before relying on an electronic signature.
New York has the Electronic Signatures and Records Act (ERSA), which has a legal framework for the state’s digital signatures. The act provides digital signatures with the same legal authority as handwritten signatures. In 2000, it was passed and exempted legal documents like those related to the individual’s property upon their death.
Fortunately, it is relatively easy to determine whether electronic signatures are legal in your state. The National Conference of State Legislatures website and Ballot Pedia, an online encyclopedia for American politics, provide a helpful list of states that have enacted laws specifically recognizing electronic signatures.
In addition, many states have signed onto the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), which provides a uniform legal framework for electronic signatures across the country. As long as you know the laws in your state, you should have no problem using electronic signatures.