What Are Wet Signatures?

A wet signature is a physical mark made by an individual on a document (usually paper), typically using wet ink, to signify agreement or consent. Wet signatures have been the traditional method of authentication for centuries, used in contracts, legal documents, deeds of trust, and other formal contracts. 

They are particularly valuable in situations where handwritten verification, retrieval or notarization is required, such as government filings or real estate transactions. While digital alternatives are now widely accepted, wet signatures remain crucial in industries and jurisdictions where electronic signatures are not legally binding.

Before moving forward, here are the key aspects of wet signatures:

• They have universal acceptance across industries and legal frameworks, ensuring compliance with formal agreements.
• Adds personal authentication by requiring the signatories's physical presence, reducing the risk of fraud.
• Suitable for notarization where official witnessing is mandatory, such as Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)-validated processes.

How do you add a wet signature to a PDF?

Adding a wet signature to a PDF involves the following steps:

Prepare and distribute the document

Start by preparing the PDF with all necessary fields clearly outlined, such as signature lines and date sections. Ensure the document is complete and accurate, as changes post-signature may render it invalid. Print the PDF and distribute physical copies (paper documents) to all parties who need to sign.

Obtain signatures

Each party should sign the printed document in their designated areas using a pen. Wet signatures are typically handwritten and unique to the individual, ensuring authenticity. Ensure that the signing process is conducted in an organized and timely manner.

Witness and Notarize (if necessary)

For legal or formal agreements, such as deeds of trust, a witness or certificate of authority may be required. Arrange for their presence during signing to validate the signatures. Stamp and notarization add an extra security layer and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Collect and store the signed documents

After all parties have signed, collect the signed copies. Scan them into a PDF format to create a digital backup while preserving the hard copy for official records. Store the documents securely in a system that ensures easy access and protection against unauthorized modifications.

How do wet signatures differ from electronic and digitally native signatures?

Wet signatures, electronic signatures, and digitally native signatures serve the same purpose of verifying consent but differ significantly in process and application.

Wet signatures involve physically signing a document with ink and are typically used when tangible proof of agreement is required. It requires the signer's presence and is widely accepted in jurisdictions where physical authentication is mandatory. However, the process can be time-consuming and inconvenient, especially when parties are present across a wide geographic region.

Electronic signatures, on the other hand, are digital representations of a handwritten signature. These signatures can be created through various methods, such as typing your name, drawing your signature on a screen, or clicking to accept terms and conditions. Electronic signatures offer the benefit of speed and convenience, allowing documents to be signed and exchanged instantly over the Internet.

Digitally native signatures are a subset of electronic signatures but with an added layer of security. They leverage cryptographic technologies to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the signature, making it virtually tamper-proof. This is crucial for legal and financial documents where security is paramount.

Which are the industries with wet signature requirements?

Despite the widespread adoption of electronic signatures, several industries in the US still require wet signatures for their legal significance and authenticity. The legal and financial sectors often mandate wet signatures for documents such as wills, property deeds, and certain contracts to ensure their validity and prevent fraudulent activities. 

In the healthcare industry, patient consent forms, HIPAA-compliant medical records, and other sensitive documents are frequently needed to protect patient privacy and maintain legal integrity.

Government agencies also frequently require wet signatures for official documents, including court orders, notarized forms, and various permits to uphold their legal standing. In the real estate sector, transactions such as deeds, mortgages, and leases typically rely on wet signatures to guarantee the enforceability and legitimacy of the agreements.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of wet signatures?

Advantages of wet signatures: 

• Universally Recognized: Wet signatures are widely accepted across industries and jurisdictions, ensuring compliance in legal and formal agreements.
• Formality: Wet signatures add a level of formality and personal touch, especially in important transactions like real estate deals or legal agreements.
• Security: They can be more difficult to forge than electronic signatures and often include additional elements such as witness signatures or notary seals.

Disadvantages of wet signatures: 

• Inconvenience: The need for physical presence or postal services to exchange documents can delay transactions, especially when parties are located far apart.
• Storage and Management: Physical documents require secure storage space and can be subject to risks like loss, damage, or misplacement.
• Environmental Impact: The use of paper and ink contributes to environmental waste, which is a concern in today's eco-conscious world.

How can businesses transition from wet signatures to digital solutions?

Transitioning from wet signatures to digital solutions involves the following strategic steps: 

• Start by identifying repetitive signature-dependent processes, such as contracts, approvals, or agreements, that can be digitized. 
• Evaluate and select reliable electronic signature platforms, ensuring they comply with relevant legal standards like the ESIGN Act in the US.
• Train employees to adopt these tools effectively and educate stakeholders on the security and convenience offered by digital signatures. Providing clear guidelines and support can help ease this transition. 
• Integrate digital signature solutions with the existing systems to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. Establish a centralized system for managing digital documents, ensuring easy access and robust security.

How does Zomentum help with transitioning to electronic signatures?

Zomentum offers a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to transition from wet signatures to electronic signatures. Our electronic signature software is designed to streamline document signing processes, making them faster, more secure, and environmentally friendly. With intuitive interfaces and customizable templates, Zomentum allows your company to create, sign, and manage documents seamlessly.

Our platform also offers real-time tracking and notifications, making sure that you are always informed about the status of your documents. Additionally, Zomentum's automated workflows and centralized document management help reduce administrative overhead and improve efficiency. 

Want to give it a try? Book a demo here.