How to Request Signatures Online and Get Documents Signed Faster

Need someone to sign a document quickly? Instead of printing paperwork or sending scanned copies back and forth, you can request signatures online in just a few minutes.

Whether you're sending a contract, PDF, agreement, or approval form, electronic signature tools make it easy to request signatures remotely, track signing progress, and get documents signed faster.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• how to request a signature on a PDF or Word document
• how to send contracts for online signing
• best practices for sending documents for signature
• tips to speed up the signing process using eSignatures

How to Request a Signature on PDF

PDF is a file format that captures all the elements of a printed document as an image. You can easily view, print, or forward PDF files, making this a preferred format for business and legal communications.

Here's how to request a signature for a PDF file:

1. Open the form using Acrobat Reader. Go to Sign Tab, then Request E-signatures.

2. When the Fill & Sign window is displayed, upload the document.

3. Once uploaded, a window will pop out asking you to type in the names or email addresses of the other signatories.

4. Choose Specify where to sign. Your document will load in Adobe Sign. The document is now ready for you to add fields that you want the signers to fill in or sign.

5. After you have placed all desired fields in the document, click Send. The document is sent to the recipients for their signatures.

Related Article: How to sign a PDF on any device

How to Request a Signature on MS Word

To request a signature on Microsoft Word, follow these steps:

1. Open the document in Word.
2. Click on the Insert tab. Then, click on the Signature Line button. A pop-up window will appear where you can add the signer's name, title, and email address.
3. Once you're done, click the OK button. The signature line will appear on your document.
4. To send a request, save the document to your device and attach it to an email. Or you can do it this way: On the File tab, click Share. In the To: box, under Recipients, enter the signers' email addresses.
5. Click Send on your email. The document will be sent to the recipients as an attachment.

While Word and Adobe Acrobat can handle basic signature requests, dedicated eSignature platforms provide a faster and more streamlined way to send documents for signing online.

Related Article: How to add a signature in Word

How to Send Contracts for Online Signing

Sending contracts online allows businesses to speed up approvals, reduce paperwork, and collect legally binding signatures remotely. Instead of mailing printed contracts or waiting for scanned copies, you can send agreements electronically and allow signers to complete them from any device.

Most eSignature platforms allow you to send contracts for online signing in just a few steps:

1. Upload your contract

Start by uploading your PDF, Word document, or agreement file. You can also create a document from scratch or use a customizable template.

2. Add your signers

Enter the signer’s name and email address. If multiple people need to sign, you can add additional recipients and set the signing order.

3. Add signature and form fields

Drag and drop signature fields, initials, date fields, and text boxes into the document so signers know exactly where to complete the form.

4. Set deadlines and reminders

To get contracts signed faster, set due dates and automatic reminders. This helps prevent delays and keeps signers accountable.

5. Send the signature request

Once everything is ready, send the document electronically. Your signers will receive an email with a secure link to review and sign the contract online.

Once your online signing process is in place, the next step is improving turnaround times and reducing approval delays.

Why Use an eSignature App for Signature Requests?

Electronic signatures are legally recognized in many countries and are commonly used for contracts, agreements, onboarding forms, and approvals. Many eSignature platforms also provide audit trails and signer verification to help support compliance requirements. These platforms help businesses streamline approvals, reduce paperwork, and improve document security.

Faster workflows

eSignature apps automate repetitive tasks like reminders, notifications, and document routing, helping businesses speed up approvals and reduce manual work.

Better document tracking and storage

Digital documents are easier to organize, access, and monitor. Many eSignature platforms include cloud storage, audit trails, and real-time tracking so you can see when documents are viewed and signed.

Improved security and compliance

Electronic signature tools use encryption, identity verification, and authentication measures to help protect sensitive documents from tampering or unauthorized access. Some providers also support compliance standards like HIPAA.

Mobile-friendly signing

Recipients can review and sign documents from their computer, phone, or tablet, making it easier to complete agreements remotely.

How to Get Documents Signed Faster with Electronic Signatures

Waiting days or weeks for signatures can slow down approvals, delay payments, and create unnecessary bottlenecks. Fortunately, there are several ways to speed up the document signing process and reduce turnaround time.

Here are some proven ways to speed up document approvals:

Use templates for recurring documents

Creating templates for contracts, agreements, and forms helps eliminate repetitive work. Instead of building documents from scratch every time, you can quickly customize existing templates and send them for signature in minutes.

Set clear deadlines

Adding due dates creates urgency and encourages signers to prioritize your request. When possible, communicate expected turnaround times before sending the document.

Enable automatic reminders

People often forget to complete signature requests. Automatic reminder emails help reduce delays without requiring constant manual follow-ups.

Keep communication responsive

Questions, revisions, and clarifications can slow down the signing process. Responding quickly helps avoid unnecessary back-and-forth and keeps approvals moving forward.

Switch to electronic signatures

Traditional signing methods — printing, scanning, mailing, or faxing — take significantly longer than online signing. eSignatures allow recipients to sign documents instantly from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Use document tracking tools

Tracking tools let you see when recipients open, review, and complete documents. Real-time visibility helps you follow up more effectively and identify delays early.

Best Practices for Sending Documents for Signature

Sending a document for signature may seem straightforward, but small mistakes can delay approvals and reduce completion rates. Following a few best practices can help ensure a smoother signing experience for everyone involved.

Write a clear subject line

Your email subject line should immediately explain what the signer needs to do. For example:

• Signature Required: Employment Agreement
• Please Review and Sign Contract
• Action Needed: NDA Signature Request

Clear subject lines improve open rates and help prevent your request from being overlooked.

Explain what the signer needs to do

Include a short message explaining:

• what the document is
• why it needs to be signed
• when it’s due

Providing context helps recipients complete the request faster.

Assign fields correctly

Before sending the document, double-check that all signature fields, initials, and form fields are assigned to the correct recipients. Incorrect assignments can delay the process.

Make documents mobile-friendly

Many recipients review and sign documents from their phones. Using an eSignature platform that supports mobile signing helps improve completion rates.

Review documents before sending

Typos, incorrect names, or missing information often lead to revisions and delays. Reviewing documents carefully before sending can help avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.

How to Request a Signature Using Fill

Requesting signatures online is the simplest way to get a document signed. All you need is an eSignature service like Fill. This contract management software allows you to create and ask for legally binding digital signatures. Fill will help you maximize efficiency by automating the entire process — from building a digital form and asking for signatures to tracking a document’s status.

Send documents for signature is easy with Fill. You can do it in three simple steps:

1. Upload your document or use a template

If you already have a Word or PDF document, you can upload it to Fill in seconds. We support formats such as PDF, DOC, and DOCX. You can also choose from our template gallery and customize one according to your needs. These ready-made forms cater to different industries, including construction, healthcare, real estate, and human resources.

2. Add the signers and signing order

Next, add the signatories. After you add the signers, specify where you want your signers to fill and sign. You can also set a completion date and indicate the order you want them to sign. Drag and drop the required fields and prefill certain sections to speed up the process.

3. Send the signature request

When you're done, click Send. Fill will do the rest for you. You will get in-app and email notifications as soon as the signature request is sent, viewed, and completed.

What are you waiting for? Sign up for a 7-day free trial today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request a signature on a PDF?

You can request a signature on a PDF using tools like Adobe Acrobat or an eSignature platform such as Fill. Upload the PDF, add signature fields, enter the signer’s email address, and send the request online.

How do I request signatures from multiple people?

Most eSignature platforms allow you to add multiple signers, assign signing order, and track each recipient’s progress in real time.

What’s the fastest way to get documents signed?

The fastest way to get documents signed is to use electronic signatures. Online signing tools allow recipients to review and sign documents instantly from any device.

Can I send contracts for online signing?

Yes. Electronic signature platforms allow you to send contracts online, track progress in real time, and collect legally binding signatures remotely.

How do I send a document for electronic signature?

Upload the document to an eSignature platform, add the signer’s details, place signature fields, and send the request by email.

Are electronic signatures legally valid?

In many countries, electronic signatures are legally recognized and enforceable when they meet applicable legal requirements.