Electronic Signatures — Valid, Binding, And Worth The Clarity (Video)

Electronic signatures have become a standard part of doing business, especially in remote and hybrid environments. For faith-based organizations, they offer convenience and efficiency—but also raise important legal and operational questions.

Are E-Signatures Legally Valid?

Yes. Under laws like the U.S. ESIGN Act and UETA, electronic signatures are generally just as enforceable as handwritten ones. That means contracts, waivers, donation agreements, and employment documents signed electronically are legally binding—if done correctly.

Common E-Signature Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Lack of Clarity
   Not all e-signatures are created equal. A typed name in an email may not carry the same weight as a secure, timestamped signature through a platform like DocuSign or Adobe Sign.
2. Missing Consent
   Parties must agree to conduct business electronically. This consent should be documented, especially for sensitive agreements.
3. Poor Recordkeeping
   Faith-based organizations must retain signed documents in a secure, accessible format. Losing access to signed records can create legal headaches.
4. Inadequate Authentication
   If you can't prove who signed the document, you may struggle to enforce it. Use platforms that verify identity through email, IP address, or multi-factor authentication.

E-Signature Best Practices for Faith-Based Organizations

• Use Trusted Platforms: Choose e-signature tools that offer encryption, audit trails, and compliance with legal standards.
• Document Consent: Include a clause in your agreements stating that all parties consent to electronic signatures.
• Train Staff: Ensure employees understand when and how to use e-signatures appropriately.
• Update Policies: Include e-signature protocols in your document management and data retention policies.

Stewardship and Integrity

Faith-based organizations are built on trust. Using electronic signatures responsibly reflects a commitment to transparency, accountability, and good stewardship of resources and relationships.

Final Thought: Electronic signatures are powerful tools—but they must be used with care. With the right systems and policies in place, faith-based organizations can embrace digital efficiency without compromising legal integrity.

See our two-minute video

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.