Are facsimile signatures legal and binding, and if so, which apps are best to use? Facsimile signature applications let you sign and send documents online. However, fax with eSignatures aren’t valid in all instances.
Here’s what you need to know about facsimile signatures and our list of top apps for secure fax signing.
Best Facsimile Signature Applications
What Is a Facsimile Signature?
So what does facsimile signature mean — what are facsimile signatures and why is it even important to have an app for them?
A facsimile signature is an electronic signature that you can use in an online faxing application. Usually, legal documents include a facsimile signature clause that allows you to use a facsimile or electronic signature in place of a handwritten signature. This electronic signature clause makes the facsimile signature legal and binding. Using an app makes it easier and faster for you to sign and send legal documents online.
5 Best Facsimile Signature Apps
1. iFax
iFax is one of the fastest and most secure ways to send and sign documents. An innovator in online faxing, iFax is the world’s first facsimile app, setting the standard for effortless on-the-go faxing. It’s hard to find another HIPAA-compliant fax app with the same e-signature and fax features at an affordable price.
Other facsimile applications won’t include digital signature capability in their platform or will ask you to pay for this additional feature, but iFax is integrated into its platform.
2. Dropbox Fax
Dropbox Fax is one of the more well-known facsimile apps in the market, primarily because of the popularity of cloud storage provider Dropbox. Dropbox acquired HelloFax and HelloSign and now includes faxing and digital signatures in its list of services.
However, you would need to subscribe separately to Dropbox Sign if you want to use this feature. Once you do, Dropbox Fax makes it easy to upload your document, fill it out, and sign it.
3. eFax
eFax is another big name in facsimile signature applications. Looking at the facsimile signature examples on its website, the app allows you to sign documents in two ways–by taking a photo of your signature or by signing with your finger. You can then drag and drop your signature on your document and save it for other documents.
Just note that eFax requires a setup fee and may have higher per page and monthly fees than iFax.
4. WiseFax
WiseFax is a reliable facsimile signature app that lets you sign documents electronically. Like iFax, it lets you sign and fax from a PC, Mac, mobile phone, or tablet without installing any third-party apps.
All you need to do is upload your document to WiseFax, click on the page you want to sign, and use the signature tool to add a facsimile signature. You can type your name, draw your signature, or import or scan your signature. WiseFax’s pricing is pay-as-you-go and will save you on costs if you only fax occasionally.
5. mFax
mFax is part Documo’s suite of document workflow software, which also includes mSign and mDrive. With mFax, you can send secure and signed documents. However, you would need a separate subscription to mSign to use facsimile signatures.
mSign allows you to draw, type, or choose a signature to match your handwriting. mSign and mFax can cost quite a bit, especially if you’re a business or enterprise user. You would need to pay per user for mSign.
Best Practices When Using Facsimile Signatures
When using facsimile signatures, follow these best practices:
Check jurisdiction laws
Verify that using facsimile signatures is legally valid in your area or the type of agreement. An electronic signature may not be considered legal in some instances. Some documents, such as wills, will still require you to provide a handwritten signature.
Include a clear facsimile signature clause
The document should explicitly state that both signatories agree to use facsimile signatures instead of physical signatures. It should also specify that the electronic signature is legally equivalent to the handwritten one.
Choose a secure facsimile app
Not all facsimile applications have the same features. For instance, iFax provides HIPAA compliance with a business associate agreement in its Professional plan. It also includes encryption, audit trails, and authentication. This gives you confidence that sensitive healthcare documents can be sent securely, as long as you as the user also knows how to maintain HIPAA compliance.
Store documents securely
Using a secure facsimile signature app is only one of the steps of sending documents securely. Afterward, your facsimiles should be kept in secure data storage. Furthermore, your cloud storage should be backed up. Use its auditing or monitoring tools to ensure your information stays safe.
Sign and Fax a Document Without a Fax Machine
Signing faxes serves multiple purposes, such as ensuring document integrity during transmission. It’s best to do it online if you want a more secure, convenient, and faster way to fax signed documents.
With iFax, you can send facsimiles without a fax machine and completely skip the process of scanning ink signatures and printing.
Sign up for an iFax account today to experience the difference.
