Summary<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nA signing-ready document needs these checks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Confirm the final content, page order, and recipient details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Add signature, initials, date, and other form fields.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Assign every field and require essential responses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Review routing, reminders, and delivery settings before sending.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The sections below break preparation into easy steps, starting with the document itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What does preparing a document for signing mean?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nPreparation connects the agreement, the people signing it, and the information each must provide. A printed signature line identifies a location; an interactive signature field gives a recipient a place to sign electronically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, HR can prepare an offer letter with employee and employer signature fields. A sales team can assign customer details and acceptance fields to the buyer, followed by a company countersignature. Keep signed contracts with their supporting records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What should you check before uploading your PDF?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHave the approved PDF file, recipient email addresses, a DocHub account, and an internet connection ready. This online tool works in a browser on your computer or mobile device, with no software installation required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check names, amounts, dates, attachments, page orientation, and blank spaces. Resolve contract edits before requesting signatures, and retain an unsigned original. For sensitive files, confirm that uploading and sharing comply with your organization\u2019s security and retention policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How do you prepare a PDF for electronic signature in DocHub?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFollow these steps to prepare the fields and recipients before sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Upload and review the document<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sign in to DocHub and select + New Document <\/strong>to upload your PDF from your device or supported cloud storage. You can also drag and drop a file into the upload area. If you convert Word documents or another supported format to PDF format, inspect every page before adding fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-20.png\")
In DocHub, select New Document<\/strong> from the dashboard to upload or create a document, then use Inbox<\/strong> and Sent<\/strong> to manage received and shared files.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n2. Add fillable fields<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Click Manage Fields<\/strong> or Edit Template<\/strong> for a template. Select a field type from the left column, then click the page to insert it. Drag fields into position and resize them without covering agreement text. Select an existing field to customize its settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDocHub supports Text<\/strong>, Paragraph<\/strong>, Checkbox<\/strong>, Radio Button<\/strong>, Dropdown menu<\/strong>, Image<\/strong>, Attachment<\/strong>, Signature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-16-1024x1024.png\")
In DocHub, add fillable fields such as text, checkboxes, dropdowns, attachments, signatures, initials, and dates directly to a document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor detailed field setup, follow the guide to adding fillable fields to a PDF<\/a>. For signing areas specifically, see adding signature fields and lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Assign fields and require essential information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To prepare PDF eSignature fields for a regular document, enter each person\u2019s email address on the People<\/strong> tab and assign each field to the correct signer. Templates use roles, including a default Client<\/strong> role, which you connect to recipients when sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-13.png\")
In DocHub, create recipient roles for a sign request and assign unassigned document fields to the appropriate role before sending the document for signature.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSignature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields are required by default. For more info on adding initials, see our guide: How to add initials to PDFs<\/a>. Other fields start as optional; select each essential field and enable Required<\/strong> so the signer must complete it before Finalize<\/strong>. Check assignments individually on multi-signer documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Create your own signature to sign a PDF<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you also need to sign, select the Sign <\/strong>tool and then Create your signature<\/strong>. Leave other people\u2019s signature fields for them to complete. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-21.png\")
In DocHub, open the Sign<\/strong> menu to create or manage your signature, request signatures from others, add a date stamp, or place a saved signature on the document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose a signing method that suits your device and preferred appearance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Phone:<\/strong> Scan the QR code or request a text link to use your phone as a signature pad.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-15-1024x584.png\")
In DocHub, create a signature by using your phone, drawing it, uploading an image, or typing it, then save it for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Draw:<\/strong> Create a drawn signature in the drawing area using your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-17-1024x770.png\")
In DocHub, draw your handwritten signature directly on the signature pad, then save it for reuse when signing documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Upload Image:<\/strong> Select Upload Signature<\/strong> to import an image of your handwritten signature.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-14-1024x298.png\")
In DocHub, use Upload Image<\/strong> to add an image of your handwritten signature or initials for use when signing documents.
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Type:<\/strong> Enter your name and select a style for your typed name.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-18-1024x762.png\")
In DocHub, use the Type<\/strong> option to enter your name and choose from several generated signature styles for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nA saved signature lets you add a signature to another document in just a few clicks. Place it where needed, then check its size. For a fuller walkthrough, see creating and adding signatures to PDFs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYou can also capture your signature image using a camera of your phone and DocHub mobile app. We have a separate blog article about capturing photos of signatures for PDF documents, please see it for more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Review recipients and send<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Open Prepare Sign Request<\/strong>, or select Request signatures from others<\/strong> from Sign<\/strong>. Add recipients, then confirm their email addresses and field assignments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"DocHub](\"https:\/\/www.dochub.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/image-19-1024x459.png\")
In DocHub, add each signer\u2019s details, configure signing options, and assign at least one field before sending the signature request.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose sequential signing when one person must finish before the next is notified, or All at once<\/strong> for independent responses. Review permissions, your email message, automated reminders, and Receives Final Copy<\/strong>, then select Send Request<\/strong>. Recipients can sign through their links without creating a DocHub account.<\/p>\n\n\n\nUse the detailed guide to requesting signatures<\/a> and the instructions for sending documents with reminders<\/a> for follow-up settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhich document signing workflow should you use?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nChoose tools according to who signs and how much preparation you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sections below break preparation into easy steps, starting with the document itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What does preparing a document for signing mean?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nPreparation connects the agreement, the people signing it, and the information each must provide. A printed signature line identifies a location; an interactive signature field gives a recipient a place to sign electronically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, HR can prepare an offer letter with employee and employer signature fields. A sales team can assign customer details and acceptance fields to the buyer, followed by a company countersignature. Keep signed contracts with their supporting records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What should you check before uploading your PDF?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHave the approved PDF file, recipient email addresses, a DocHub account, and an internet connection ready. This online tool works in a browser on your computer or mobile device, with no software installation required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check names, amounts, dates, attachments, page orientation, and blank spaces. Resolve contract edits before requesting signatures, and retain an unsigned original. For sensitive files, confirm that uploading and sharing comply with your organization\u2019s security and retention policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How do you prepare a PDF for electronic signature in DocHub?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFollow these steps to prepare the fields and recipients before sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Upload and review the document<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sign in to DocHub and select + New Document <\/strong>to upload your PDF from your device or supported cloud storage. You can also drag and drop a file into the upload area. If you convert Word documents or another supported format to PDF format, inspect every page before adding fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, select New Document<\/strong> from the dashboard to upload or create a document, then use Inbox<\/strong> and Sent<\/strong> to manage received and shared files.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n2. Add fillable fields<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Click Manage Fields<\/strong> or Edit Template<\/strong> for a template. Select a field type from the left column, then click the page to insert it. Drag fields into position and resize them without covering agreement text. Select an existing field to customize its settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDocHub supports Text<\/strong>, Paragraph<\/strong>, Checkbox<\/strong>, Radio Button<\/strong>, Dropdown menu<\/strong>, Image<\/strong>, Attachment<\/strong>, Signature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, add fillable fields such as text, checkboxes, dropdowns, attachments, signatures, initials, and dates directly to a document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor detailed field setup, follow the guide to adding fillable fields to a PDF<\/a>. For signing areas specifically, see adding signature fields and lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Assign fields and require essential information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To prepare PDF eSignature fields for a regular document, enter each person\u2019s email address on the People<\/strong> tab and assign each field to the correct signer. Templates use roles, including a default Client<\/strong> role, which you connect to recipients when sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, create recipient roles for a sign request and assign unassigned document fields to the appropriate role before sending the document for signature.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSignature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields are required by default. For more info on adding initials, see our guide: How to add initials to PDFs<\/a>. Other fields start as optional; select each essential field and enable Required<\/strong> so the signer must complete it before Finalize<\/strong>. Check assignments individually on multi-signer documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Create your own signature to sign a PDF<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you also need to sign, select the Sign <\/strong>tool and then Create your signature<\/strong>. Leave other people\u2019s signature fields for them to complete. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, open the Sign<\/strong> menu to create or manage your signature, request signatures from others, add a date stamp, or place a saved signature on the document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose a signing method that suits your device and preferred appearance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Phone:<\/strong> Scan the QR code or request a text link to use your phone as a signature pad.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, create a signature by using your phone, drawing it, uploading an image, or typing it, then save it for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Draw:<\/strong> Create a drawn signature in the drawing area using your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, draw your handwritten signature directly on the signature pad, then save it for reuse when signing documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Upload Image:<\/strong> Select Upload Signature<\/strong> to import an image of your handwritten signature.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, use Upload Image<\/strong> to add an image of your handwritten signature or initials for use when signing documents.
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Type:<\/strong> Enter your name and select a style for your typed name.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, use the Type<\/strong> option to enter your name and choose from several generated signature styles for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nA saved signature lets you add a signature to another document in just a few clicks. Place it where needed, then check its size. For a fuller walkthrough, see creating and adding signatures to PDFs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYou can also capture your signature image using a camera of your phone and DocHub mobile app. We have a separate blog article about capturing photos of signatures for PDF documents, please see it for more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Review recipients and send<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Open Prepare Sign Request<\/strong>, or select Request signatures from others<\/strong> from Sign<\/strong>. Add recipients, then confirm their email addresses and field assignments.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, add each signer\u2019s details, configure signing options, and assign at least one field before sending the signature request.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose sequential signing when one person must finish before the next is notified, or All at once<\/strong> for independent responses. Review permissions, your email message, automated reminders, and Receives Final Copy<\/strong>, then select Send Request<\/strong>. Recipients can sign through their links without creating a DocHub account.<\/p>\n\n\n\nUse the detailed guide to requesting signatures<\/a> and the instructions for sending documents with reminders<\/a> for follow-up settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhich document signing workflow should you use?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nChoose tools according to who signs and how much preparation you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have the approved PDF file, recipient email addresses, a DocHub account, and an internet connection ready. This online tool works in a browser on your computer or mobile device, with no software installation required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check names, amounts, dates, attachments, page orientation, and blank spaces. Resolve contract edits before requesting signatures, and retain an unsigned original. For sensitive files, confirm that uploading and sharing comply with your organization\u2019s security and retention policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How do you prepare a PDF for electronic signature in DocHub?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nFollow these steps to prepare the fields and recipients before sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Upload and review the document<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sign in to DocHub and select + New Document <\/strong>to upload your PDF from your device or supported cloud storage. You can also drag and drop a file into the upload area. If you convert Word documents or another supported format to PDF format, inspect every page before adding fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, select New Document<\/strong> from the dashboard to upload or create a document, then use Inbox<\/strong> and Sent<\/strong> to manage received and shared files.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n2. Add fillable fields<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Click Manage Fields<\/strong> or Edit Template<\/strong> for a template. Select a field type from the left column, then click the page to insert it. Drag fields into position and resize them without covering agreement text. Select an existing field to customize its settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDocHub supports Text<\/strong>, Paragraph<\/strong>, Checkbox<\/strong>, Radio Button<\/strong>, Dropdown menu<\/strong>, Image<\/strong>, Attachment<\/strong>, Signature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, add fillable fields such as text, checkboxes, dropdowns, attachments, signatures, initials, and dates directly to a document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor detailed field setup, follow the guide to adding fillable fields to a PDF<\/a>. For signing areas specifically, see adding signature fields and lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Assign fields and require essential information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To prepare PDF eSignature fields for a regular document, enter each person\u2019s email address on the People<\/strong> tab and assign each field to the correct signer. Templates use roles, including a default Client<\/strong> role, which you connect to recipients when sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, create recipient roles for a sign request and assign unassigned document fields to the appropriate role before sending the document for signature.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSignature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields are required by default. For more info on adding initials, see our guide: How to add initials to PDFs<\/a>. Other fields start as optional; select each essential field and enable Required<\/strong> so the signer must complete it before Finalize<\/strong>. Check assignments individually on multi-signer documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Create your own signature to sign a PDF<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you also need to sign, select the Sign <\/strong>tool and then Create your signature<\/strong>. Leave other people\u2019s signature fields for them to complete. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, open the Sign<\/strong> menu to create or manage your signature, request signatures from others, add a date stamp, or place a saved signature on the document.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose a signing method that suits your device and preferred appearance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Phone:<\/strong> Scan the QR code or request a text link to use your phone as a signature pad.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, create a signature by using your phone, drawing it, uploading an image, or typing it, then save it for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Draw:<\/strong> Create a drawn signature in the drawing area using your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, draw your handwritten signature directly on the signature pad, then save it for reuse when signing documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Upload Image:<\/strong> Select Upload Signature<\/strong> to import an image of your handwritten signature.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, use Upload Image<\/strong> to add an image of your handwritten signature or initials for use when signing documents.
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n- Type:<\/strong> Enter your name and select a style for your typed name.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In DocHub, use the Type<\/strong> option to enter your name and choose from several generated signature styles for use in documents.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nA saved signature lets you add a signature to another document in just a few clicks. Place it where needed, then check its size. For a fuller walkthrough, see creating and adding signatures to PDFs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYou can also capture your signature image using a camera of your phone and DocHub mobile app. We have a separate blog article about capturing photos of signatures for PDF documents, please see it for more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Review recipients and send<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Open Prepare Sign Request<\/strong>, or select Request signatures from others<\/strong> from Sign<\/strong>. Add recipients, then confirm their email addresses and field assignments.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn DocHub, add each signer\u2019s details, configure signing options, and assign at least one field before sending the signature request.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoose sequential signing when one person must finish before the next is notified, or All at once<\/strong> for independent responses. Review permissions, your email message, automated reminders, and Receives Final Copy<\/strong>, then select Send Request<\/strong>. Recipients can sign through their links without creating a DocHub account.<\/p>\n\n\n\nUse the detailed guide to requesting signatures<\/a> and the instructions for sending documents with reminders<\/a> for follow-up settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhich document signing workflow should you use?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nChoose tools according to who signs and how much preparation you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Add fillable fields<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Click Manage Fields<\/strong> or Edit Template<\/strong> for a template. Select a field type from the left column, then click the page to insert it. Drag fields into position and resize them without covering agreement text. Select an existing field to customize its settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n DocHub supports Text<\/strong>, Paragraph<\/strong>, Checkbox<\/strong>, Radio Button<\/strong>, Dropdown menu<\/strong>, Image<\/strong>, Attachment<\/strong>, Signature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For detailed field setup, follow the guide to adding fillable fields to a PDF<\/a>. For signing areas specifically, see adding signature fields and lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To prepare PDF eSignature fields for a regular document, enter each person\u2019s email address on the People<\/strong> tab and assign each field to the correct signer. Templates use roles, including a default Client<\/strong> role, which you connect to recipients when sending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Signature<\/strong>, Initials<\/strong>, and Auto Date<\/strong> fields are required by default. For more info on adding initials, see our guide: How to add initials to PDFs<\/a>. Other fields start as optional; select each essential field and enable Required<\/strong> so the signer must complete it before Finalize<\/strong>. Check assignments individually on multi-signer documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you also need to sign, select the Sign <\/strong>tool and then Create your signature<\/strong>. Leave other people\u2019s signature fields for them to complete. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose a signing method that suits your device and preferred appearance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n A saved signature lets you add a signature to another document in just a few clicks. Place it where needed, then check its size. For a fuller walkthrough, see creating and adding signatures to PDFs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also capture your signature image using a camera of your phone and DocHub mobile app. We have a separate blog article about capturing photos of signatures for PDF documents, please see it for more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Open Prepare Sign Request<\/strong>, or select Request signatures from others<\/strong> from Sign<\/strong>. Add recipients, then confirm their email addresses and field assignments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose sequential signing when one person must finish before the next is notified, or All at once<\/strong> for independent responses. Review permissions, your email message, automated reminders, and Receives Final Copy<\/strong>, then select Send Request<\/strong>. Recipients can sign through their links without creating a DocHub account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use the detailed guide to requesting signatures<\/a> and the instructions for sending documents with reminders<\/a> for follow-up settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choose tools according to who signs and how much preparation you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Assign fields and require essential information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Create your own signature to sign a PDF<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n
5. Review recipients and send<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Which document signing workflow should you use?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n