A simple electronic signature (SES) is the most common and accessible way to sign documents online. It allows individuals and businesses to approve contracts, HR forms, or agreements without printing or scanning—saving time, reducing costs, and simplifying workflows.
Unlike advanced or qualified e-signatures, a simple electronic signature focuses on speed and ease of use. This makes it especially useful for freelancers, SMEs, and teams that need to finalize documents remotely in just a few clicks.
In this guide, you will learn:
- The different types of electronic signatures (simple, advanced, qualified)
- Step-by-step instructions to create a simple electronic signature
- The best tool for signing online
- Whether simple e-signatures are legally binding in the UK
Whether you are an independent professional closing deals or a business leader looking for the right tool, this article will help you understand the essentials and choose the solution that fits your needs.
Try Yousign's simple electronic signature
What is an Electronic Signature?
An electronic signature (e-signature) is a digital way of showing agreement to the contents of a document. Instead of signing a contract with pen and paper, you can now sign electronically using your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
At its core, an e-signature serves the same purpose as a handwritten one. It is used to:
- Prove identity
- Show consent
- Confirm intent
The main difference lies in how it is created, verified, and stored. Electronic signatures are often backed by secure technologies such as encryption, digital certificates, and audit trails that record every step of the signing process.
Good to know:
A simple electronic signature is the most common type of e-signature and is widely used for everyday contracts and HR documents. Tools like Yousign make it easy for businesses of all sizes to implement compliant and secure e-signatures.
How Electronic Signatures Work
- The signer opens the document on a digital platform.
- The signature is created (typed name, drawn signature, or uploaded image).
- The platform attaches metadata such as date, time, IP address, and authentication details.
- The completed document is stored securely, ensuring it cannot be altered without detection.
Types of Electronic Signatures
There are three types of electronic signatures, each offering a different level of security and legal recognition under international and EU regulations.
1. Simple Electronic Signature (SES)
The Simple Electronic Signature (SES) is the most common and accessible type of e-signature.
- Definition: Any basic electronic method of showing agreement.
- Examples: typing your name, clicking “I agree,” or pasting a scanned image of your handwritten signature.
- Use cases: Everyday contracts, HR forms, and low-risk documents.
2. Advanced Electronic Signature (AES)
The Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) adds more security and a stronger link to the signer.
- Definition: A signature uniquely linked to the signer and capable of identifying them.
- Technology: Often relies on digital certificates and cryptographic methods.
- Use cases: Sensitive business transactions such as financial agreements, medical documents, or compliance-heavy industries.
- Legal recognition: More robust than SES, with higher evidential value in case of disputes.
3. Qualified Electronic Signature (QES)
The Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) is the highest level of e-signature, particularly under the EU’s eIDAS Regulation.
- Definition: A signature created using a qualified certificate issued by a trusted provider.
- Legal recognition: Legally equivalent to a handwritten signature in the European Union.
- Use cases: High-value contracts, notarial deeds, cross-border agreements, or government-related processes.
Comparison Table: SES vs AES vs QES
Type of e-signature | Level of security | Legal recognition | Typical use cases |
|---|---|---|---|
SES (Simple) | Basic | Legally valid, but less secure | Everyday agreements, NDAs, HR forms |
AES (Advanced) | High | Strong legal standing | Sensitive contracts, regulated industries |
QES (Qualified) | Very high | Equivalent to handwritten signature (EU) | Real estate, notarial acts, high-value deals |
Important:
While all three types are considered legally binding in many jurisdictions, the required level often depends on the type of document and local regulations.
How to Create a Simple Electronic Signature
Creating a simple electronic signature (SES) with Yousign is straightforward, secure, and designed for both individuals and teams. The platform makes it easy to sign documents online in just a few steps—without technical barriers or complicated setups.
Step-by-Step: Creating an E-Signature with Yousign
- Upload your document
- Add signature fields
- Invite signers
- Sign electronically
- Receive a legally binding document
Once all parties have signed, Yousign generates an audit trail that certifies the signer’s identity, date, and time of the signature.
The document is archived securely, ensuring its integrity over time.
Important:
Unlike free signature generators, Yousign ensures that every signature is legally binding under the EU eIDAS regulation. This means your simple electronic signature is not just convenient, but also compliant with European law.
Are Electronic Signatures Legally Binding in the UK?
Yes, electronic signatures are legally binding in the UK, but the exact requirements depend on the type of document and the legal context.
Legal Framework in the UK
- Electronic Communications Act 2000: this act confirms that electronic signatures are legally valid and enforceable.
- UK eIDAS Regulation: post-Brexit, the UK retained and adapted the EU’s eIDAS framework. It outlines three levels of e-signatures: simple, advanced and qualified.
- Legal Effect and Admissibility: under Article 25 of UK eIDAS and supported by the Electronic Communications Act, an e-signature cannot be denied legal recognition solely because it’s electronic. Moreover, it’s admissible as evidence in legal proceedings.
- Guidance from the Law Commission: in a 2019 report, the Law Commission confirmed that English law allows electronic signatures—even for documents with statutory signature requirements—as long as the signatory intended to authenticate the document.
- Jurisdictional Differences: England and Wales follow a flexible approach: a simple electronic signature is often sufficient, unless specific formalities are legally required (e.g., for deeds or wills).
Summary Table
Legal Basis | Key Points |
|---|---|
Electronic Communications Act | Validates electronic signatures as enforceable |
UK eIDAS Regulation | Defines three types: SES, AES, QES |
Admissibility in Court | E-signatures cannot be dismissed just for being electronic; they’re admissible |
Law Commission Guidance | SES broadly acceptable if signer intends to authenticate |
Formal Requirements Exceptions | Certain documents (e.g., wills, deeds) may still need specific formalities |
Why This Matters for You
For most everyday contracts (e.g., NDAs, HR forms, commercial agreements), a Simple Electronic Signature (SES) is generally sufficient under UK law. This aligns with Yousign’s straightforward, user-friendly approach, while still ensuring legal enforceability.
However, for high-stakes or formal transactions—such as deeds, wills, real estate transfers, or statutory filings—you may need to consider Advanced (AES) or Qualified (QES) signatures, particularly if heightened identity assurance or regulation demands it.
All in all, electronic signatures offer both peace of mind and legal robustness—especially when executed via a trusted, compliant platform like Yousign.
Benefits of Using Electronic Signatures
Switching from handwritten signatures to electronic signatures is more than just a matter of convenience. It brings measurable advantages for individuals, businesses, and teams of all sizes.
1. Save Time and Close Deals Faster
- Documents can be signed and returned instantly, without printing, scanning, or posting.
- Ideal for remote work and distributed teams.
- Eliminates common delays in approval processes.
2. Reduce Costs
- No need for paper, ink, printers, or couriers.
- Cuts administrative overhead by digitising workflows.
- Especially impactful for businesses managing large volumes of contracts.
3. Improve Security and Compliance
- E-signature platforms like Yousign encrypt documents and provide detailed audit trails.
- Protects against fraud and tampering.
- Ensures compliance with UK and EU legal frameworks, including UK eIDAS.
4. Enhance the User Experience
- Clients, employees, and partners can sign documents anywhere, on any device.
- No technical expertise required—just a secure link and a few clicks.
- Offers a professional and modern way of handling agreements.
5. Environmentally Friendly
- Reduces reliance on paper, printing, and shipping.
- Helps organisations meet sustainability goals.
Good to know:
According to the UK Law Commission, electronic signatures are legally valid and admissible in court—so using them doesn’t just improve efficiency, it also provides legal assurance when backed by a trusted provider like Yousign.
Try Yousign free for 14 days and experience how electronic signatures can simplify your agreements while keeping them legally secure.
The Best Tool for Electronic Signatures
With many e-signature solutions available today, it can be difficult to choose the right one. However, for businesses and professionals looking for a secure, user-friendly, and legally compliant platform, Yousign stands out as one of the best options.
Why Choose Yousign?
- Legally binding
Every signature made with Yousign complies with the EU eIDAS regulation, ensuring that your documents are recognized as legally valid across Europe. - Simplicity and ease of use
The platform is designed for smooth adoption: upload a document, add signature fields, and sign in just a few clicks—no technical expertise required. - Security you can trust
Yousign provides strong authentication, document encryption, and a detailed audit trail for every signature, protecting both your business and your signers. - Collaboration and workflow
Beyond individual signing, Yousign makes it easy for teams to manage approvals, track progress, and collaborate on important agreements. - Scalable for all needs
Whether you’re a freelancer sending out contracts or a large organization managing high volumes of signatures, Yousign adapts to your needs.
Security: How to Ensure Your Electronic Signatures are Safe
While electronic signatures are designed to make signing faster and easier, security is a critical factor. Not all solutions provide the same level of protection, and choosing the right provider is key to ensuring your agreements remain private, authentic, and legally enforceable.
Key Security Features of Trusted E-Signature Solutions
- Encryption : documents are encrypted during transfer and storage, making them unreadable to unauthorised parties.
- Authentication: signers can be identified using multi-factor authentication (MFA), email verification, or SMS codes. This ensures only the intended recipient can access and sign the document.
- Audit Trails: every action in the signing process (viewing, signing, time, IP address) is recorded. Provides non-repudiation, meaning a signer cannot later deny their involvement.
- Tamper-Proofing: after signing, the document is sealed digitally to prevent modifications. Any change would invalidate the signature.
- Regulatory Compliance: in the UK, compliance with the UK eIDAS Regulation ensures that signatures are legally recognised. Trusted providers like Yousign also comply with GDPR for data protection.
How Yousign Protects Your Signatures
Yousign combines all of the above measures to keep your documents safe:
- Strong end-to-end encryption.
- Audit trails attached to every signed document.
- Secure storage in Europe, compliant with GDPR.
- Full adherence to UK eIDAS, guaranteeing legal recognition in the UK and across Europe.
Important:
Free or uncertified online signature generators may not offer encryption or legal proof of the signing process. For any business-critical agreement, always use a certified e-signature provider like Yousign.
Yousign offers a 14-day free trial, so you can test its features and see how digital signing can simplify your processes before committing.
FAQ: Electronic Signatures
What are electronic signatures and how do they work?
An electronic signature (e-signature) is a digital way to sign a document and confirm agreement. Instead of writing on paper, you sign electronically by typing your name, drawing a signature, or clicking to approve. Platforms like Yousign secure the process with encryption, identity checks, and an audit trail that records when and by whom the document was signed.
What are the benefits of using e-signatures over traditional signatures?
E-signatures save time and money by removing the need for printing, scanning, and mailing. They also offer stronger security through authentication and tamper-proof technology, and they’re legally recognised under UK law. Plus, they enable remote signing, making them ideal for today’s digital workplace.
Which electronic signature tool is the best for my needs?
The best tool depends on your priorities—whether it’s legal compliance, ease of use, or team collaboration. In the UK and Europe, Yousign is a leading choice because it combines simplicity, security, and compliance with UK eIDAS regulations, ensuring every signature is legally valid.
Are electronic signatures legally binding?
Yes. In the UK, electronic signatures are recognised under the Electronic Communications Act 2000 and the UK eIDAS Regulation. They are admissible in court and enforceable in most everyday contracts. However, some documents, such as deeds or wills, may still require additional formalities.
How do I ensure the security of my electronic signatures?
To keep e-signatures safe, always use a trusted provider that offers:
- Encryption to protect your documents.
- Audit trails to prove who signed and when.
- Authentication methods like email or SMS verification.
- Regulatory compliance with UK eIDAS and GDPR.
With Yousign, every signed document includes a proof file and a secure digital seal, giving you confidence that your contracts are protected.
