Are typed signatures legally binding?
Yes. Typed signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act (US), eIDAS (EU), and similar laws worldwide. As long as the signer intends to sign and the signature is associated with the document, it carries the same legal weight as a handwritten signature.
Typed signatures — where someone types their name into a signature field — are 100% legally binding for the vast majority of contracts. The ESIGN Act of 2000 explicitly states that 'a signature, contract, or other record relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form.'
What makes a typed signature valid:
1. Intent to sign — the signer must intend the typing to be their signature (not just typing their name in a 'name' field). 2. Consent to electronic signing — both parties must agree to use e-signatures (usually built into the platform's terms). 3. Association with the record — the signature must be linked to the specific document signed. 4. Record retention — the signed document and audit trail must be preserved.
Typed signatures are commonly used for: NDAs, freelance contracts, employment offers, terms of service acceptance, vendor agreements, lease agreements (most states).
Where typed signatures are NOT enough:
- Wills and trusts — most states require wet ink + witnesses + notarization.
- Divorce/family law documents — varies by state.
- Certain real estate deeds — varies by state.
- Powers of attorney — many states require notarization.
Best practice for high-value contracts: use a drawn (canvas) signature instead of typed. Drawn signatures look more like wet-ink signatures and are harder to dispute. iContract supports both — typed for speed, drawn for high-value contracts.
The legal reality: a typed signature on a contract is just as enforceable as a wet-ink signature, as long as the audit trail is preserved.
Create your own contract in 2 minutes
iContract drafts a custom, legally sound agreement for free. Start drafting →