Guide · Updated September 2026
How to Send a Document for Signature
Emailing a PDF and asking someone to sign it works, but it is hard to track and leaves little evidence. An e-signature service handles sending, reminders and records for you.
Step by step
- Finalize the document. Make sure the content is final and export it as a PDF so the layout stays fixed.
- Choose a service. Pick an e-signature service that records an audit trail. eSignSimple's sending feature is in early access.
- Add signers. Enter each signer's name and email address. Set a signing order if one person must sign before another.
- Place fields. Add signature, date and text fields where each signer needs to act.
- Send and track. Send the document. Signers receive an email link, and you can see who has viewed and signed.
- Store the signed copy. Download the completed document together with its audit trail and keep them with your records.
The simple email method
If you only need a quick signature from someone you trust, you can email a PDF and ask them to sign it with Preview, the Files app or Acrobat Reader and send it back. You will not get a formal record of when and how it was signed.
Need a document first?
eSignSimple offers contract templates, such as NDAs and freelance agreements, that you can fill in before sending.
Frequently asked questions
Does the signer need an account?
With most e-signature services, including eSignSimple, signers sign through an emailed link without creating an account.
What is an audit trail?
A log of events, such as sent, viewed and signed, with timestamps, that serves as evidence of the signing process.
Can I send to multiple signers?
Yes. Add each signer and, if needed, the order they sign in.
Get your next document signed today.
Start with 5 free documents a month. No card needed.