Is a signature added with FileCrisp legally valid?

FileCrisp places an image overlay on the PDF — this is an image-based signature. For most everyday documents (contracts, forms, letters), this is sufficient. For legally binding electronic signatures with audit trails, you need a dedicated e-signature platform like DocuSign or Adobe Sign.

How do I create a signature image for FileCrisp?

Sign your name on white paper, photograph it, and remove the background (a phone photo editing app or FileCrisp's convert tool can help). Or use a drawing app to create a digital signature. Save as PNG with a transparent background.

Can I add a signature to multiple pages?

Currently FileCrisp places the signature on a specific page and position. For multi-page documents, you can process each signed page individually.

Does the signed PDF look different from the original?

Only where the signature is placed. The rest of the PDF is unchanged — text, links, and formatting are all preserved.

Can I sign a password-protected PDF?

No. FileCrisp cannot modify encrypted PDFs. Unlock the PDF first using your PDF application, then add the signature.

Document ToolsMay 20266 min read

Add Signature to PDF
Free — No Adobe Required.

Adobe Acrobat Pro costs $24/month just to sign PDFs. FileCrisp lets you place your signature image on any PDF — free, in your browser, with no upload and no account.

How FileCrisp compares

FileCrispFreeNeverNo

Adobe Acrobat Pro$24/monthCloud uploadRequired

DocuSign$10–$45/monthCloud uploadRequired

ToolCostFile uploadAccount

Sign PDF Free

Cost to sign a PDF

FileCrisp is completely free, forever

Files uploaded to any server

Your documents stay on your device

Account required

No sign-up, no login, just open and sign

Watch out

Legal note: Image-based signatures are accepted for most everyday documents. For contracts requiring a verified e-signature with audit trail (real estate, legal agreements), use a dedicated e-signature service.

How to Sign a PDF in 3 Steps

No Adobe Acrobat. No account. No upload.

Upload your PDF and signature image

Drop your PDF and your signature image (PNG with transparent background works best) onto FileCrisp. Both files stay in your browser.

PNG with transparency = cleanest result

Position your signature

Drag your signature to the right location on the page. Resize as needed. FileCrisp shows a preview so you can see exactly where the signature will appear before rendering.

Preview before downloading

Download your signed PDF

Click Sign and download. Your PDF now has the signature embedded — fully compatible with any PDF reader, email attachment, or document system.

Compatible with all PDF readers

Add your signature to any PDF — free

Upload PDF + signature image, position, download. Nothing leaves your browser.

Free forever

No uploads · 100% private

Sign PDF Free

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know — answered plainly.

Sign PDFs Free — No Adobe Required

Upload, position, download. Private, instant, and completely free.

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Files stay on your device

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Add Signature to PDFFree — No Adobe Required.