Adding your signature to PDF documents doesn’t have to be a hassle or require expensive software. Whether you need to sign contracts, forms, or other important paperwork, there are several free options available that make the process quick and easy. This guide will walk you through some of the best free tools for signing PDFs, including both downloadable software and online services.
Method 1: Adobe Acrobat Reader DC
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is a widely-used, free PDF reader that includes a handy signature feature. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Download and install Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the official Adobe website. During installation, make sure to uncheck any optional offers you don’t want.
Step 2: Open your PDF document in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.
Step 3: Click on the “Fill & Sign” button in the right pane or select it from the Tools menu.
Step 4: Click the “Sign” button on the toolbar and choose “Add Signature.”
Step 5: You’ll see three options for creating your signature:
- Type: Enter your name and choose from four handwriting-style fonts.
- Draw: Use your mouse or touchpad to draw your signature freehand.
- Image: Upload an image of your signature (useful if you’ve scanned your signature before).
Step 6: After creating your signature, click “Apply” to add it to your document. You can resize and position it as needed.
Step 7: Save your signed PDF using the File menu.
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC also allows you to save your signature for future use, making it even quicker to sign documents in the future.
Method 2: Smallpdf Online Tool
If you prefer not to download software, Smallpdf offers a convenient online option for signing PDFs:
Step 1: Visit the Smallpdf eSign PDF page.
Step 2: Upload your PDF document from your computer, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
Step 3: On the right sidebar, click “Create Signature” or “Create Initials.”
Step 4: Choose from three options to create your signature:
- Draw: Use your mouse to draw your signature.
- Type: Enter your name and select a handwriting style.
- Upload: Upload an image of your signature.
Step 5: Once your signature is ready, drag and drop it onto the desired location in your PDF.
Step 6: Click “Finish & Sign” to complete the process and download your signed PDF.
Smallpdf’s free plan allows you to sign two documents per day, which is sufficient for occasional use. They also offer an option to invite other signers if you need multiple signatures on a document.
Method 3: Foxit Reader
Foxit Reader is another free PDF reader that includes signature functionality:
Step 1: Download and install Foxit Reader from their official website.
Step 2: Open your PDF in Foxit Reader.
Step 3: Go to the “Fill & Sign” tab and click on “Create Signature.”
Step 4: Choose from the following options to create your signature:
- Draw Signature: Use your mouse to draw your signature.
- Import Signature: Upload an image file of your signature.
- Type Signature: Type your name and select a font style.
- Paste Signature from Clipboard: If you’ve copied a signature image, you can paste it here.
Step 5: After creating your signature, save it for future use.
Step 6: Select your saved signature from the Fill & Sign tab and place it on your document.
Step 7: Adjust the size of your signature as needed, then save your signed PDF.
Foxit Reader allows you to create multiple signatures, giving you flexibility for different signing needs.
Method 4: Preview (for Mac users)
If you’re using a Mac, you can use the built-in Preview app to sign PDFs:
Step 1: Open your PDF in Preview.
Step 2: Click on the Markup Toolbar icon (it looks like a toolbox).
Step 3: Click on the signature button in the toolbar.
Step 4: Choose to create a signature using your trackpad, camera, or iPhone:
- Trackpad: Click “Click Here to Begin” and use your trackpad to draw your signature.
- Camera: Hold up a white piece of paper with your signature to your Mac’s camera.
- iPhone: Use your iPhone to draw your signature (requires Continuity Camera feature).
Step 5: Once you’ve created your signature, select it from the signature menu and place it on your document.
Step 6: Adjust the size and position of your signature as needed.
Step 7: Save your signed PDF.
Preview saves your signatures for future use, making it quick and easy to sign documents on your Mac.
Tips for Signing PDFs
Regardless of which method you choose, keep these tips in mind when signing PDFs:
- Always review the entire document before signing.
- Ensure your signature is clear and legible.
- If you’re using a drawn signature, practice a few times before adding it to your document.
- For important legal documents, check if an electronic signature is acceptable or if a physical signature is required.
- Keep your signed PDFs secure, especially if they contain sensitive information.
With these free tools at your disposal, you can easily sign PDFs without the need for expensive software or complicated processes. Choose the method that works best for your needs and operating system, and you’ll be signing documents digitally in no time.