How to Collect E-signatures in Google Docs

E-signatures have become essential for modern teams, freelancers, and remote workers. Fortunately, with Google Docs and a few powerful add-ons, you can collect signatures, track status, and streamline your approval processes without printing a single page.

✍️ Why Use E-signatures in Docs?

Speed: Send documents for signing in seconds
Legality: Compliant with global standards like eIDAS and ESIGN Act
Traceability: Receive notifications when the document is viewed, signed, or modified

🔧 Step-by-Step Setup

1. Choose Your Add-on

Some popular e-signature add-ons:

HelloSign (now Dropbox Sign)
DocuSign
SignRequest
PandaDoc

Each integrates directly into the Google Docs sidebar and provides drag-and-drop signature fields.

2. Install from Workspace Marketplace

Visit https://workspace.google.com/marketplace
Search for your preferred signature tool
Click “Install” and grant permissions

3. Add Signature Fields

Open a document
Go to Extensions > [Add-on Name] > Start
Select the signer(s)
Place signature fields in the document
Send for signing

🔒 Security & Compliance

All tools mentioned offer:

Encrypted storage
Full audit trails
Legally binding signatures

Caution:

Always check the privacy policy and permissions requested by the add-on. Only use trusted providers with verified badges in the Marketplace.

📦 Use Cases

Freelance contracts
Employee onboarding
NDA agreements
Sales agreements
School permission slips

🧠 Pro Tips

Use a template document and duplicate it for faster workflows
Combine with Google Forms and Form Publisher to create document workflows
Use Google Sheets to track signing statuses via APIs or integrations

✅ Summary

You no longer need external apps to collect digital signatures. By using the right add-on, Google Docs becomes a powerful e-signature tool — simple, legal, and scalable.

Explore more workflow-enhancing tools at AddonsHunt.com.