Confirm what kind of signature is required
Some organizations accept a drawn or typed visible signature. Others require identity verification, a named e-sign platform, or a certificate-backed digital signature. Follow the recipient’s instructions.
Visible electronic signature workflow
Sign a PDF on an iPhone in Safari
When a form accepts an ordinary visible electronic signature, you can place one on the PDF directly from Safari without creating a BetterThanPDF account.
Open Sign PDF →Open the PDF and position the signature
Choose the document, select the target page, create or upload the signature, and place it carefully. Pinch/zoom or use landscape orientation if you need more room for accurate placement.
Review before sending
Open the downloaded file and verify the signature is on the correct page and does not cover a date field, initials box, checkbox, or nearby text.
Know the legal/technical limitation
BetterThanPDF creates a visible signature mark. It does not prove identity, create a cryptographic certificate, provide an audit trail, or guarantee acceptance by the recipient.
Before you finish
If the form includes several signature or initial fields, complete them methodically and review the entire document afterward rather than checking only the visible signature area. A visible signature can be placed correctly while another required date, checkbox, or initial remains blank. The receiving organization’s requirements always take precedence over the convenience of a browser-based signing tool.
Questions about this task
Does the signature upload to BetterThanPDF?
Supported signing occurs locally in the browser rather than sending document contents to BetterThanPDF.
Is this the same as DocuSign or a certificate signature?
No. It is a visible electronic signature tool, not a certificate-backed signing service.
Should I keep the unsigned PDF?
Yes. Retain the original and the completed copy.