Introduction
If you’ve ever received a PDF document that needed to be signed, you know how frustrating it can be to print it out, sign it manually, and scan it back in. But did you know that you can sign a PDF for free? In this article, we’ll show you five simple methods for signing a PDF document without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking to sign a document quickly or add a digital signature, we’ve got you covered.
5 Free and Easy Ways to Sign a PDF Document
Signing a PDF is easier than you might think. Here are five free and easy options to choose from:
Option 1: Using Adobe Acrobat Reader
Adobe Acrobat Reader is a popular free PDF reader that also allows you to sign PDFs. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open your PDF document with Adobe Acrobat Reader.
2. Click on the “Fill & Sign” button in the right-hand pane.
3. Click on the “Sign” button.
4. Choose whether you want to add your signature, type your signature, or draw your signature.
5. Place your signature on the document wherever you like.
6. Save your signed PDF document.
Pros: Adobe Acrobat Reader is a widely recognized and trusted PDF reader that offers a simple way to sign documents.
Cons: You must create an Adobe account to sign PDFs, and some features may only be available with a paid subscription.
Option 2: Using Preview on Mac
If you’re using a Mac, you can sign a PDF using the Preview app that comes pre-installed on your computer. Here’s how:
1. Open your PDF document with Preview.
2. Click on the “Markup” icon in the top toolbar.
3. Click on the “Sign” icon in the toolbar.
4. Choose whether you want to add your signature, type your signature, or draw your signature.
5. Place your signature on the document wherever you like.
6. Save your signed PDF document.
Pros: Preview is already installed on your Mac and offers a straightforward way to sign documents.
Cons: Preview may not be as feature-rich as some other options covered in this article.
Option 3: Using Smallpdf.com
Smallpdf.com is a free online service that offers a wide range of PDF tools, including a way to sign PDF documents. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open Smallpdf.com in your web browser.
2. Click on “Sign PDF” in the menu.
3. Upload your PDF document.
4. Choose whether you want to add your signature, type your signature, or draw your signature.
5. Place your signature on the document wherever you like.
6. Save your signed PDF document.
Pros: Smallpdf.com is easy to use and doesn’t require any downloads or installations.
Cons: You need an internet connection to use Smallpdf.com, and files may be limited in size if you’re not using the paid version.
Option 4: Using DocHub.com
DocHub.com is another free online service that allows you to sign PDF documents. Here’s how to get started:
1. Open DocHub.com in your web browser.
2. Click on “New Document” and upload your PDF file.
3. Click on “Sign” in the toolbar on the right-hand side.
4. Choose whether you want to add your signature, type your signature, or draw your signature.
5. Place your signature on the document wherever you like.
6. Save your signed PDF document.
Pros: DocHub.com offers a secure and efficient way to sign documents.
Cons: Some features may only be available with a paid subscription.
Option 5: Using SignNow.com
SignNow.com is a popular online service that offers a way to sign PDF documents for free. Here’s how to use it:
1. Open SignNow.com in your web browser.
2. Click on “Upload Document” and select the PDF file you want to sign.
3. Choose whether you want to add your signature, type your signature, or draw your signature.
4. Place your signature on the document wherever you like.
5. Save your signed PDF document.
Pros: SignNow.com is a widely recognized and trusted service that offers an easy way to sign PDFs.
Cons: Like some of the other options on this list, some features may only be available with a paid subscription.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Signing PDFs for Free
Now that you know your options, here’s a detailed guide on how to sign a PDF document using each of the methods covered above.
Step 1: Open your PDF document
Regardless of which method you choose, the first step is to open your PDF document. Make sure you have the file you want to sign saved on your computer or accessible through a cloud-based service like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Step 2: Choose your preferred method of signing
Next, choose the method you want to use to sign your PDF. You can either use one of the five options covered in the previous section of this article or explore some of the other free or paid options available online.
Step 3: Add your signature
Once you’ve chosen your method, it’s time to add your signature. You’ll either be prompted to upload an image of your signature or create one using your mouse or touchscreen.
Step 4: Save your signed PDF
After you’ve added your signature, save your signed PDF document to your computer or preferred cloud-based service. You can now send it off to its intended recipient with ease.
Sign and Send: Simple Tools for Signing PDFs Without Spending a Dime
In addition to signing PDFs, there are other tools available to help you send signed documents securely. Here are three options to consider:
Option 1: Using Gmail with DocuSign
If you have a Gmail account, you can use DocuSign to sign and send documents from your email. Here’s how:
1. Open Gmail and create a new email.
2. Click on the “DocuSign” icon in the toolbar.
3. Upload your PDF document and add your signature.
4. Send your signed document as an attachment.
Option 2: Using HelloSign
HelloSign is a free tool that allows you to sign documents online. Here’s how to use it:
1. Go to HelloSign.com and click on “Get Started” for free.
2. Upload your PDF document.
3. Add your signature.
4. Save your signed document and send it off.
Option 3: Using SignRequest
SignRequest is another free tool that allows you to sign documents online. Here’s how to use it:
1. Go to SignRequest.com and create a free account.
2. Upload your PDF document.
3. Add your signature.
4. Save your signed document and send it off.
Options for Signing PDFs with a Digital Signature Without Breaking the Bank
In addition to traditional signatures, digital signatures are also an option for signing PDF documents. Here are three affordable options to consider:
Explanation of digital signatures and their benefits
A digital signature is a secure way to sign a document using a digital certificate instead of a handwritten signature. They’re often used in a professional setting and offer several benefits, including faster processing times, increased security, and reduced paper waste.
Option 1: Using DigiCert
DigiCert is a trusted provider of digital certificates and offers an affordable digital signature option. Here’s how to get started:
1. Go to DigiCert.com and choose the digital signature option that works for you.
2. Follow the instructions to create an account and upload your PDF document.
3. Add your digital signature.
4. Save your signed document and send it off.
Option 2: Using GlobalSign
GlobalSign is another reputable provider of digital certificates. Here’s how to use it:
1. Go to GlobalSign.com and follow the instructions to purchase a digital signature.
2. Create an account and upload your PDF document.
3. Add your digital signature.
4. Save your signed document and send it off.
Option 3: Using Comodo
Comodo is a leading provider of digital signatures and offers an affordable solution. Here’s how to get started:
1. Go to Comodo.com and choose the digital signature option that works for you.
2. Follow the instructions to create an account and upload your PDF document.
3. Add your digital signature.
4. Save your signed document and send it off.
No-Cost Solutions for Signing Your PDFs – What You Need to Know
Recap the all the options covered in the article. Be sure to offer tips for choosing the right option for your needs and additional resources for signing PDFs for free, such as blogs, forums or user groups, and social media communities.
Conclusion
Signing a PDF doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these simple and free options, you can sign your documents quickly and easily without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or digital signature, there’s an option out there that’s right for you.
