Yes — in most cases, a settlement agreement can be signed electronically, and this is now very common. An electronic signature is generally just as valid as a handwritten one.
How does signing electronically work?
Your employer, or their solicitors, will usually send the agreement to you through an e-signing platform (such as SignIT, DocuSign or Adobe Sign), or ask you to sign and return it by email. You will typically sign once you have received independent advice on the terms and effect of the agreement, and your adviser will usually sign the adviser's certificate electronically too.
Electronic signing fits well with a fully remote advice service, as the whole process can usually be completed without printing, posting or attending an in-person meeting. Our article on how long settlement agreement advice takes explains the typical timeline.
Worth checking
Before you sign, check that you are signing the final agreed version, that any changes agreed during negotiation have been included, and keep a copy of the fully signed agreement for your records.
Is an electronically signed settlement agreement legally binding?
Generally, yes. Once a settlement agreement has been validly signed by both parties, and the legal requirements, including receiving independent advice, have been met, it is typically legally binding whether it was signed electronically or by hand. Occasionally, an employer may ask for a handwritten signature instead, so it is worth following the instructions you are given.
Can I sign a settlement agreement on my phone?
Usually, yes. Most e-signing platforms work on a phone, tablet or computer, so you can review and sign the agreement wherever you are.
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Get in touch →This article provides a high-level overview for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
Should you choose to formally instruct us, legal services will be provided by Nexa Law Limited. Employment Settlement Solicitor is a trading name of RJB Legal Services Ltd, a limited company registered in England and Wales with number 17353836. RJB Legal Services Ltd does not provide legal advice. RJB Legal Services is a consultant practice of Nexa Law Limited, a limited company registered in England and Wales with number 10209198, which is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under SRA number 633024.