Edit and Sign PDF Forms on Your iPad
Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 11:44AM 
Some of you have asked me how to sign PDF forms on the iPad. There are a variety of ways to accomplish this, but the easiest method that I’ve found is using the PDF Expert app. PDF Expert is not free. It costs $9.99 but is well worth it. In addition to allowing you to add signatures, PDF Expert allows you to fill out forms, annotate, highlight, and make notes.
The first step is to download and install PDF Expert from the Apple App store. After it’s installed add the PDFs you plan to use to your device. Use iTunes to sync them from your computer or e-mail them to yourself and save them on your iPad.
One nice feature in PDF Expert is its built-in file sharing capabilities which allow you to connect to your iPad and transfer files from your computer via Wi-Fi. The PDFs you download need to be editable. If you aren’t sure if they are, contact the person or group who created the PDF and ask.
Once your PDFs are downloaded to your device, open them from within PDF Expert. Since the document is editable, you’ll be able to tap any field and the on-screen keyboard will appear allowing you to enter information.
To add your signature to PDF Expert, tap the pen icon located in the top menu. Use your finger to write your signature or, to be more precise, purchase an iPad stylus. There are many out there to choose from – do an Internet search, read reviews and decide which would be best for your needs. Once you write your signature, tap “Save”.
To sign the form, tap on the signature field and select “Signature”. You’ll be given the options of “My Signature” or “Customer Signature”. Selecting “My Signature” will insert your previously saved signature. Selecting “Customer Signature” will bring up a screen allowing for your client to enter a one-time signature. Your client’s signature will be saved on the form but not in the program. After all are added, tap the rectangle with an arrow icon found in the top menu. Select “Save a Copy” as to not overwrite the original. Once saved, you can e-mail or print the form directly from your iPad.
That’s it. Now enjoy the freedom of filling out forms on the go!
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