/s/ Signature Example: How to Create & Use in 2025

An /s/ signature is a type of electronic signature where a name is typed between slashes, like /John Doe/, to validate documents without a handwritten signature. This method is widely accepted by government agencies, including the USPTO, for its efficiency and legal standing. To create one, simply type your name between slashes on the signature line of an electronic document. Use /s/ signatures in digital communications to expedite processes and ensure compliance with legal standards. They are particularly useful in scenarios where traditional signatures are impractical, providing a quick and secure way to sign documents electronically.

What is an /s/ signature?

An S-signature, including conformed signatures, occurs when a signer types (or uses other non-handwritten means) their name between two forward slashes on the signature line of a document. This allows, in certain cases, bypassing the need for an actual signature. Conformed signatures are a type of S-signature, but instead of typing the name between two forward slashes, /s/ is placed before the typed name.

S-signature: /John Doe/

Conformed signature: /S/ John Doe

Why use an /s/ signature?

An S-signature is accepted in a wide range of situations and speeds up the process of signing documents, like other electronic signatures. Many government agencies accept S-signatures when other types of electronic signatures may not qualify and wet signatures would usually be required. Notably, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) accepts S-signatures for correspondence and signing as an inventor.

Other government agencies that accept electronic signatures include:

• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Social Security Administration (SSA)

• Federal Communication Commission
• U.S. International Trade Commission
• Federal Trade Commission
• Etc.

Note: This list isn’t comprehensive and there are many more government agencies that accept S-signatures on legally binding documents.

Ease of use

Creating an S-signature is easy as long as you have a way to type on the document. It can be done without complex software and will allow you to get business done quickly irrespective of how technically inclined you or the other person is.

Speed

Modern business is moving faster and faster. Electronic signatures allow you to sign documents and return them to the sender within minutes. You’re able to cut out many cumbersome processes associated with faxed or emailed contracts.

Convenience

Even though there’s a clear business case for using S-signatures and other forms of electronic signatures, many people decided to make the switch because of convenience. The convenience it affords is often directly correlated to a higher close rate.

You’re able to sign documents from your mobile phone, on your laptop, or when you’re out of the office. This is due to the fact that you don’t have to print out a document, sign it, and then send it back to the person who sent it to you (or your clients don’t have to repeat a similar process).

Drawbacks of basic /s/ signatures

The major drawback of an S-signature that can be created in something like Microsoft Word is a lack of security and an audit trail. If the document is challenged in court, it would be difficult to prove that you’re the one that signed or that the recipient signed using an S-signature.

You can avoid this by using our online signature maker, the electronic signature tool from Bonsai. It’ll create the audit trail, secure your identity, and even add document hashing on your behalf. This will ensure the validity of your document and will prevent it from being challenged on the grounds that it’s an s-signature.

Even better, you can upload a wet signature and append it to documents that you sign through UsefulSignatures. In either instance, UsefulSignatures will help you avoid one of the major drawbacks of using S-signatures or conformed signatures on important documents.

Requirements for an /s/ signature

S-signatures can be used in a wide range of circumstances but they need to meet certain criteria as set out by 37 CFR 1.4(d)(2). If these criteria aren’t met then it’s possible that the conformed signature will be rejected.

1. It should only have letters or Arabic numbers. It can also include proper punctuation.
2. It should be between forward slashes /name/
3. The typed or mechanically produced signature between forward slashes should be placed right next to or below the S-signature so it’s possible to identify the signer.
4. If it’s related to a patent then the patent registration number should be placed within the forward slashes or adjacent to the signature.

How to use an /s/ signature

What is an /s/ signature and when to use it

An /s/ signature is a simple way to sign electronic documents by typing “/s/” followed by your name. It serves as a legally recognized digital signature in many contexts, especially for contracts and agreements sent via email or online platforms. This method is often used when you cannot physically sign a document but still need to confirm your approval.

Freelancers and small business owners frequently use /s/ signatures for quick approvals or when working with clients remotely. For example, if you receive a contract by email, replying with “/s/ Jane Doe” at the end of your message can indicate your consent without printing or scanning. However, it’s important to confirm that the recipient accepts this form of signature to avoid disputes.

To ensure your /s/ signature is valid, check state-specific electronic signature laws such as the ESIGN Act in the U.S., which generally recognizes typed signatures. Using /s/ is practical for informal agreements or initial approvals but may not replace notarized signatures for legal filings.

How to add an /s/ signature to your documents

Adding an /s/ signature is straightforward. Simply type “/s/” followed by your full name exactly as you would sign on paper. For example, “/s/ John Smith.” Place this at the end of your email or document where a signature is required. This clearly indicates your intent to sign electronically.

When using PDF editors like Adobe Acrobat or HelloBonsai, you can insert the /s/ signature in a text box or directly in the signature field if the platform supports it. This method is especially useful when you want to keep the document digital without printing. Remember to save a copy of the signed document for your records.

For contracts sent via email, include the /s/ signature in your reply message. For example, after stating your acceptance, end the email with “/s/ Your Name.” This creates a timestamped record of your signature, which can be helpful if any questions arise later.

Best practices to ensure /s/ signatures are legally valid

To make sure your /s/ signature holds up legally, always confirm that all parties agree to use electronic signatures. Using platforms like HelloBonsai or Adobe Sign can help by providing audit trails and timestamps that support the signature’s authenticity. These tools also comply with the ESIGN Act and UETA regulations.

Include a clear statement in your documents or emails indicating that typing “/s/” plus your name constitutes your signature. For example, you might write, “By typing /s/ Jane Doe, I agree to the terms outlined above.” This explicit consent reduces the risk of misunderstandings.

Keep thorough records of all signed documents and communications. If you operate in states with specific e-signature rules, such as California or New York, review those laws to ensure compliance. Taking these steps will protect you and your business in case the signature’s validity is ever challenged.

Examples of /s/ signatures

1. /John Doe/ John Doe
2. /John Doe/ Reg No. #12345 John Doe
3. /John doe #12345/ John Doe
4. /s/ John Doe Reg No. #12345
5. /John Doe/

John Doe

These are just a few examples of S-signatures and how they should be formatted. Of course, there are other forms that may be considered acceptable and if you prefer those, you’re free to use them.

When to use /s/ signatures?

There are many instances when S-signatures are used and preferred. The following list isn’t exhaustive but can give you an idea of when and how to use S-signatures:

• Contract approvals
• Remote client agreements
• Informal consent confirmations
• Email approvals
• Initial sign-offs on proposals

• Federal circuit court of appeals
• Ninth circuit
• Eleventh circuit
• Second circuit
• Fourth circuit
• D.C. court of appeals
• Some district courts like Central District of California and the District of Columbia
• The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• Federal Trade Commission
• Federal communications commission

S-signatures are a form of electronic signature that makes it possible to sign a wider range of documents without the need for a wet signature or cumbersome signing processes. They’re versatile, easy to make, and convenient for most people. They do have a few drawbacks related to security and authentication but by using a signature tool like our online signature maker, you’ll be protected from most issues. Get started with our electronic signature solution today and start using S-signatures to complete documents faster.

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