Signing documents
How to sign a PDF without Adobe Acrobat
Add a visible signature, initials and date to a PDF in your browser, and understand the difference between an electronic and digital signature.
Confirm which kind of signature is required
Many routine documents accept a visible electronic signature: a drawn mark, typed name or signature image placed on the page. Other workflows require a certificate-based digital signature, identity verification or a specific signing platform.
Ask the recipient when the requirement is unclear. Paperuna adds visible signature elements but does not issue certificates, verify identity or prove that the file remained unchanged afterward.
Prepare a safe signing copy
Read the complete document before signing and keep an unsigned original. Confirm that names, dates, amounts and attachments are correct. Avoid signing a page that could later be separated from unclear surrounding terms.
If you upload a signature image into the browser workspace, use a tightly cropped file with a clean background. Treat signature images as personal data and avoid leaving unnecessary copies in shared folders.
Place the signature accurately
Draw, type or choose the signature, then position and resize it within the intended field. Add initials or a date only where requested. Zoom in to ensure the mark does not obscure contractual text or sit outside the signature box.
Paperuna processes the PDF and signature locally. The downloaded result contains the visible mark as part of a new PDF file.
Review and deliver
Open the downloaded PDF separately and inspect every signed page. Confirm that the signature, initials and date remain clear at normal zoom and that the document still contains the expected number of pages.
Use the delivery method requested by the recipient. For high-value, regulated or disputed transactions, a dedicated signing service with audit records and identity controls may be more appropriate.
Hands-on practice
Practise signature placement
Use fictional data first, then repeat the workflow with your own document once you understand the result.
Common questions
Is a visible signature the same as a digital signature?
No. A certificate-based digital signature can provide tamper detection and certificate information; a visible electronic signature does not provide those assurances by itself.
Does Paperuna store my signature?
No. The signature and document are processed locally in the browser.
Try it privately
Put this guide into practice
Paperuna processes supported documents locally in your browser. Your file is not uploaded for processing.
Sign PDFThis guide provides general information, not legal, regulatory or professional advice. Review important outputs and keep an untouched copy of the original document.