How to Sign a Word Document

Updated December 2025 • 6 min read

Need to add your signature to a Microsoft Word document? This guide covers multiple methods to electronically sign .docx files, from using Word's built-in features to online signing tools.

Method 1: Convert to PDF and Sign Online (Recommended)

Why This Method?

Converting to PDF ensures your signature can't be easily removed or the document altered. This is the most secure and professional approach.

  1. In Word, go to File → Save As → Choose PDF format
  2. Go to Signatly's Sign PDF tool
  3. Upload the PDF
  4. Add your signature
  5. Download the signed PDF

Method 2: Insert Signature Image in Word

Steps:

  1. Create your signature image (or use Signatly's Signature Creator)
  2. In Word, click Insert → Pictures
  3. Select your signature image file
  4. Resize and position on the signature line
  5. Right-click image → Wrap Text → In Front of Text (for better positioning)

Note: Anyone with the document can remove this signature, so it's less secure than PDF signing.

Method 3: Use Word's Signature Line Feature

Steps:

  1. Go to Insert → Signature Line
  2. Fill in the signature details (name, title, email)
  3. Click OK to insert the signature placeholder
  4. Double-click the signature line to sign
  5. Type, draw, or select a signature image

Requires: Microsoft 365 or recent Word versions

Which Method Should You Use?

Sign Word Documents Securely

Convert to PDF and sign online for the most professional result.

Sign Document Now