One federal law for the whole country
The federal ESIGN Act, passed in 2000, gives an electronic signature the same legal effect as a signature in ink for most documents, in every state. Every state also recognizes electronic signatures under its own law, and most base theirs on the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act.
A few documents have special rules
Wills and trusts, some family law papers, court filings, certain official notices, and documents that must be notarized or recorded can have their own rules. Your state's page explains more.
Questions people ask
Are electronic signatures legal in every state?
Yes. Electronic signatures are recognized in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. for most business and personal documents.
What law makes electronic signatures legal?
The federal ESIGN Act applies nationwide, and each state recognizes electronic signatures under its own law as well.
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This page is general information, not legal advice. Carta Ink does not give legal advice. Please talk with an attorney about your specific documents.