How to Sign an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) PDF Online

Getting Asked to Sign an NDA? Here's What to Do

Non-disclosure agreements are one of the most commonly signed business documents. Whether you're starting a new job, freelancing for a client, discussing a business partnership, or interviewing at a company, you'll likely encounter an NDA.

Most NDAs arrive as PDF files via email. Here's how to sign and return them quickly.

How to Sign an NDA PDF

1. Read the NDA carefully before signing (see checklist below)
2. Open sigpdf.com in your browser
3. Upload the NDA PDF
4. Click "Add Signature" — draw or type your signature
5. Place your signature on the designated signature line
6. Use "Add Text" to fill in your name, title, and company (if required)
7. Use "Add Date" to add the signing date
8. Download and email the signed NDA back

The whole process takes under 2 minutes.

What to Check Before Signing an NDA

Before you sign any NDA, check these key clauses:

1. Scope of Confidential Information

What exactly is considered confidential? A well-drafted NDA should clearly define what information is covered. Watch out for overly broad language like "all information shared between the parties" — this could restrict you from using general industry knowledge.

2. Duration

How long does the NDA last? Common terms range from 1 to 5 years. Some NDAs are perpetual (no end date) — these are generally more restrictive and should be reviewed more carefully.

3. Exclusions

Standard NDAs should exclude:

• Information that's already public
• Information you already knew before the NDA
• Information you independently developed
• Information you received from a third party without restriction

If these exclusions are missing, ask for them to be added.

4. Mutual vs. One-Way

• Mutual NDA: Both parties agree not to share each other's confidential information. Fairer and more common in partnerships.
• One-way NDA: Only you are restricted. Common when working for a company or client. Not inherently unfair, but know what you're agreeing to.

5. Non-Compete Clauses

Some NDAs include hidden non-compete or non-solicitation clauses. These can prevent you from working with competitors or hiring the other party's employees. Read carefully.

6. Jurisdiction and Governing Law

Which state or country's laws govern the NDA? This matters if there's ever a dispute.

Are Electronically Signed NDAs Legally Enforceable?

Yes. NDAs signed with electronic signatures are legally binding under:

• US: ESIGN Act and UETA — electronic signatures have the same legal effect as wet-ink signatures for contracts
• EU: eIDAS Regulation — simple electronic signatures are valid for NDAs
• UK: Electronic Communications Act 2000

NDAs are standard commercial contracts. They do not fall under any exception to e-signature laws. Major companies (Google, Microsoft, Salesforce) routinely use electronic signatures for NDAs.

Tips for Professional NDA Signing

• Use a consistent signature — sign the same way you would on paper
• Use blue or black ink — SigPDF lets you choose signature color. Black is standard, blue is traditional for originals
• Include the date — always date your signature
• Fill in all blanks — company name, title, address, etc.
• Save a copy — always keep a copy of the signed NDA for your records
• Respond promptly — signing and returning an NDA quickly shows professionalism

Sign Your NDA Now

Got an NDA to sign? Open SigPDF and return it signed in under 2 minutes. Your document stays private — it's processed entirely in your browser.

Sign Your NDA →