How to Ask Someone to Sign a Document

Need someone to sign a contract, PDF, or agreement? A signature request is crucial to the signing process and below are professional and polite ways to ask for a signature — including email templates, “please sign and return” examples, and tips for requesting signatures online.

Let’s look at best practices to help you craft the perfect request and get vital documents signed on time.

To politely ask someone to sign a document, briefly explain the purpose of the document, provide clear signing instructions, and use courteous language such as “Please review and sign at your convenience” or “Could you kindly sign and return the attached document?”

Signature Request Email Templates

Whether you're requesting approval for a contract, agreement, or PDF, these email templates can help you ask for signatures professionally.

General signature request

Hi [Name],

Please review and sign the attached document at your convenience.

Let me know if you have any questions before signing.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

Urgent signature request

Hi [Name],

Could you please review and sign the attached document by [date] so we can proceed with the next steps?

Please let me know if anything needs clarification.

Best,
[Your Name]

“Please sign and return” email

Hi [Name],

Please sign and return the attached document at your earliest convenience.

Once signed, we’ll finalize the process immediately.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

Common Phrases to Use in Signature Requests

Getting someone to sign a contract does not have to be complicated. In many cases, it's simply a matter of explaining the terms of the agreement and addressing any concerns that the other party may have. However, there are times when you may need to use persuasive techniques to get someone to sign on the dotted line.

Here are common phrases you can use to help you stay professional while asking someone to sign a document:

Please sign and return phrases

1. Kindly sign and return the attached document.
2. We need your signature to proceed further. Please sign and return after reviewing the document.
3. I'd be grateful if you could sign and return the attached documents.
4. Please review and sign the enclosed document(s) to move forward.
5. Can you please sign and return the document?
6. We'd appreciate your signature on this document. Kindly return the signed copy at your convenience.
7. We respectfully request that you sign and return the attached file.
8. Your signature will finalize this agreement/contract. I look forward to receiving your signed copy.
9. Kindly sign and return both copies to complete the process.
10. Please sign and return the enclosed copies as soon as possible.

Other phrases

1. This document needs your signature.
2. We need your approval on this.
3. Can you sign to confirm?
4. I look forward to receiving your signature.
5. Could you please sign here?
6. Sign here to approve.
7. Please sign if you agree.
8. Please accept our proposal by signing below.
9. Could I trouble you for a signature?

Best Practices When Asking Someone to Sign a Document

Aside from using the sample phrases we provide, there are other things to consider when asking for signatures. Remember: your goal is to get the other party to agree to the terms of the contract, not to pressure them into signing the agreement without consideration for their time.

Be respectful and straightforward

Being direct and courteous is best when asking someone to sign a document. Briefly explain why you need their signature and how the document will benefit the signer. Avoid using imperative phrases like "you must sign" or "I must have your signature." Using polite language is always a good idea when asking for a signature.

Set due dates

Make sure to specify how soon you need the signature and how much time the other party needs to review the document. Depending on the type of contract, you may wish to give the signer a few days’ lead time. However, signatories may take several weeks to review and sign financial or real estate contracts. You may also mention the consequences of missing the deadline for signing the document.

Add a personalized message

Avoid sending generic messages when asking someone to sign a document. Making your request personalized shows that you're willing to take the time and effort to ensure your message is understood. Seeing their name will help the signer feel more comfortable and at ease with what they’re signing.

Provide clear instructions

Make sure that the other party knows how to sign the document. Explain the steps on how they'll sign, scan, or return the documents. Include additional instructions, especially if they are unfamiliar with using a digital signature app.

Automate the signature process

Using an automated signature request system can make the sign and return process. This way, you can track who has signed your contract and who has not yet completed the document. You'll no longer need to send out requests for signatures manually. Automation also covers receiving alerts, so you're always aware of how far along the process is.

How to Request a Signature on Paper

Obtaining a signature in a non-digital format may be necessary under certain circumstances.

1. In person

Requesting in person adds an element of formality and personalization, as you're engaging with the other party directly. It also allows you to make last-minute clarifications about the document. Also, some documents, such as wills or marriage contracts, require an in-person signature.

2. By mail

This is the traditional way of requesting signatures. The printed document is sent via registered mail to the other party. It usually includes a written message asking the signatory to return it after signing. This method can take days or weeks, depending on how long the mail reaches the signatories and how long they need to review the content.

How to Request an Electronic Signature Online

Electronic signatures are one of the fastest ways to get documents signed. You can ask people to sign documents online using electronic signature apps like Fill. Online signing requires electronic signatures, which are considered valid in most countries. With an eSignature platform like Fill, you can:

• upload contracts and PDFs
• send documents for signature via email
• track signing status in real time
• send reminders automatically
• collect legally binding eSignatures online

You can request a signature online via email, a web link, or a contract management app.

Signature request via email

You can send the document via email and request a signature. The recipient will receive them as an attachment. The other party will need an electronic signature app or tool to sign if you request a signature online. If they don't already have one, you can suggest an app like Fill.

Signature request through a web link

If you’re using an online form, you can generate a unique URL and send that with your signature request. File-sharing platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive are excellent choices for this. Upload the file and get the link from the sharing settings, then share the link with your recipient.

Signature request through an app

This is the most efficient way to send and request electronic signatures. A contract management app like Fill will allow you to upload your document and send it directly to the recipient. They can sign and return the document effortlessly after reviewing the contract.

How to Ask Someone to Sign a PDF

If you're requesting a signature on a PDF file, make sure:

• the signature fields are clearly marked
• the recipient knows how to sign the PDF
• the instructions are simple

You can either:

• attach the PDF to an email
• send a signing link through an eSignature app
• use cloud-sharing tools like Google Drive or Dropbox

Related guides:

• How to Sign a PDF
• How to Sign a PDF on iPhone or iPad
• How to Sign a PDF on Android
• How to Sign a PDF on Mac
• How to Create a Signature in PDF Using Windows

How to Request a Signature for Word or Google Docs

You can also request signatures for Word documents or Google Docs.

For Word files:

• insert a signature line
• convert the document to PDF
• use an eSignature app for easier signing

For Google Docs:

• use built-in add-ons
• export as PDF
• send the document through an online signing tool

Helpful resources:

• How to Insert a Signature in Word
• How to Sign Documents in Google Docs

How to Ask Someone to Sign a Document on Mobile

Many people now review and sign documents from their phones or tablets.

If your recipient is signing on mobile:

• keep instructions short
• use mobile-friendly signing links
• avoid requiring downloads whenever possible

Related guides:

• How to Sign Documents on Your iPhone
• How to Sign Documents on Android
• How to Sign Documents on an iPad
• How to Sign Documents on Your Mac
• How to Sign Documents Online for Free

Request Signatures Using Fill

Collecting electronic signatures is the quickest way to get documents signed. You can do this with Fill. All of the signing processes are made easy with its features where you can:

• Customize contract templates: Document signing is much faster since you no longer have to write contracts from scratch.
• Receive real-time notifications: Know immediately when the document is signed and if changes were made in the document.
• Enable the Decline to Sign option: Allow signers to formally reject a document when necessary, keeping the process transparent and ensuring clear communication.
• Collect legally-binding signatures: No more worries about compliance with regulations such as HIPAA, GLBA, ESIGN, and UETA.
• Integrate with other productivity tools: Add document management and electronic signature functionality seamlessly to your existing apps and services.

Experience how easy it is to request eSignatures with Fill. Sign up now and get started!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you politely ask someone to sign a document?

Politely explain the purpose of the document, provide signing instructions, and use courteous phrases such as:

• “Please review and sign at your convenience.”
• “Could you kindly sign and return the attached document?”
• “We’d appreciate your signature to proceed.”

What is the best way to ask for a signature by email?

The best approach is to keep the email short, professional, and specific. Mention:

• what the document is
• why the signature is needed
• when you need it signed
• how to complete the signing process

How do you ask someone to sign and return a document?

You can say:

“Please sign and return the attached document at your earliest convenience.”

Or:

“Kindly review, sign, and send back the attached agreement.”

How do I request an electronic signature?

Upload the document into an eSignature platform, add the signer’s email address, and send the signing request. The recipient will receive a secure link where they can review and sign online.