How to e-sign via text message (with SignTime)

E-sign via text message is changing the way agreements are completed. Instead of relying on email or physical documents, senders can reach recipients directly on their mobile devices. This method makes signing faster, more convenient, and easier to track.

Platforms that support SMS e-signing, including SignTime, offer multiple options for signatures, such as hand-drawn, typed, or hanko. Automated reminders and notifications ensure that agreements are completed on time. Businesses and individuals alike are discovering that text-based signing reduces delays and improves the overall signing experience.

With e-sign via text message, documents move quickly from sender to signer, making it a practical solution for busy teams and remote recipients. The process combines convenience with security, giving both parties confidence that signatures are valid and properly recorded.

See why businesses are rushing to SignTime’s feature-packed contract repository system.

What does e-sign via text messages mean?

E-sign via text messages allows a document to be signed directly on a mobile device using a link sent via SMS. Instead of printing, scanning, or emailing documents, recipients can click the link and complete their signature instantly.

The process is simple: the sender uploads the document, designates signature fields, and sends a secure SMS to the recipient. The recipient then opens the link, reviews the document, and adds their signature using a hand-drawn, typed, or hanko option.

This method is secure and legally recognized under electronic signature laws. Each signature is tracked and verified, creating an audit trail that ensures authenticity. Text-based e-signatures offer speed, convenience, and reliability for both senders and recipients.

How to send documents for SMS e-signing

Sending documents for SMS e-signing is straightforward and designed for efficiency. By using a mobile-first approach, senders can reach recipients instantly and reduce delays associated with traditional signing methods.

• Prepare the document: Upload the file to your e-signature platform and add any necessary signature, date, or initial fields. Make sure all required information is clearly marked.
• Send via SMS: Enter the recipient’s mobile phone number and send a secure link to the document. The recipient receives the message immediately on their Android or iPhone and can access the document from their phone.
  

Many platforms also allow tracking of delivery and signature status. This ensures that senders know when recipients have opened the document and completed their signature. SMS e-signing streamlines communication and keeps the signing process moving efficiently.

Signing process on the recipient side

Once the recipient receives the SMS link, completing the signature is quick and intuitive. The link opens the document on a mobile device, where the signer can review all content before signing.

Recipients can choose their preferred signature method, including hand-drawn, typed, or hanko. The platform guides them through required fields to ensure nothing is missed.

After signing, the recipient confirms completion, and the signed document is automatically sent back to the sender. This process eliminates the need for printing or scanning and provides both parties with a secure, legally recognized record of the agreement.

Security and compliance considerations

E-signatures via text message are designed to meet legal and regulatory requirements. Platforms use encryption to protect documents during transmission and storage, ensuring sensitive information remains secure.

Signer authentication confirms the identity of the person signing, while an audit trail records each step of the signing process. This provides a clear record of when the document was sent, opened, and signed.

Using SMS for e-signing can be as secure as traditional email-based signatures when proper safeguards are in place. Businesses can confidently rely on text-based e-signatures for contracts, agreements, and approvals without compromising compliance or security.

Common use cases for SMS e-signatures

SMS e-signatures are useful in many situations where speed, convenience, and mobile accessibility are important. They allow businesses and individuals to complete agreements without delays or unnecessary steps.

• Real estate agreements: Agents and clients can sign contracts including leases quickly while in the field, avoiding the need for in-person meetings.
• Employment forms: HR teams can distribute offer letters, onboarding documents, and policy acknowledgements for remote or on-site employees.
• Approvals and authorizations: Managers can sign off on purchase orders, budgets, or project approvals directly from their phones.
• Remote workforce documentation: Teams working from different locations can complete agreements efficiently without printing or scanning.
• Quick acknowledgements: Customers or partners can confirm receipts, acknowledgements, or consent forms instantly through SMS.
  

SMS e-signing helps reduce turnaround times and keeps processes moving smoothly, making it a practical solution for modern businesses.

Benefits of using SMS for e-signing

Using SMS for e-signatures offers numerous advantages for both senders and recipients. Text-based signing combines convenience, speed, and security to make the process more efficient than traditional methods.

• Faster turnaround: SMS e-signing allows agreements to be completed in minutes.
• Better customer experience: Signers can complete documents conveniently on any mobile device.
• Reduced errors: SMS guides the signer through required fields to prevent mistakes.
• Higher completion rates: SMS messages tend to be opened and acted on faster than emails.
• Accessibility: Signers can complete documents without needing a computer.
• Less paperwork: Reduces printing, scanning, and physical storage needs.
• Multiple signature types: Supports hand-drawn, typed, and mobile-optimized signatures.
• Automated reminders: Notifications reduce delays and forgotten signatures.
• Compliance and audit trails: Clear records ensure legal validity and traceability.
• Seamless integration: Works easily with contract management systems.
• Remote efficiency: Teams can complete agreements quickly from anywhere.
• Eco-friendly: Minimizes paper usage and promotes sustainability.
  

These benefits show why SMS e-signing is becoming a preferred choice for modern businesses and organizations seeking faster, more reliable signing methods.

How to e-sign via text with SignTime

Signing documents via text message with SignTime is simple and designed to be intuitive. The platform guides both senders and recipients through every step, ensuring the document is prepared correctly, delivered securely, and signed efficiently.

1. Log in to your SignTime account and select the document you want to send for e-signing.
2. Prepare the document by adding signature fields, date fields, and any other required information.
3. Choose the recipient and enter their mobile phone number to send the signature request via SMS.
4. Customize the message that accompanies the SMS link, if desired, to provide context for the signer.
5. Send the document, and SignTime will deliver an SMS with a secure link to the recipient.
6. The recipient clicks the link, reviews the document, and selects their preferred signature method, including hand-drawn, typed, or hanko.
7. Once the recipient signs, SignTime automatically confirms completion and updates the status in your account.
8. Download, store, or share the completed document as needed, with SignTime maintaining a full audit trail.

Collect e-signatures via text with SignTime

SMS e-signatures streamline the signing process, making it faster, more convenient, and easier to track. Both senders and recipients benefit from mobile access, multiple signature options, and automated reminders.

SignTime provides a secure, mobile-ready platform that supports hand-drawn, typed, and hanko signatures. The system ensures compliance, maintains full audit trails, and integrates seamlessly with contract management workflows.

By using SignTime to collect e-signatures via text message, businesses can reduce delays, improve customer experience, and manage agreements efficiently from anywhere. 

Download our brochure to see whether SignTime might be a fit for your organization.