Creating a fillable PDF in DocuSign involves a few steps, but it's a powerful way to streamline your document signing process. DocuSign's platform allows you to create, send, and manage agreements, and adding fillable fields to your PDFs is a key feature that enhances this functionality. Let's dive into the process.
Before we begin, ensure you have a DocuSign account and that you're familiar with the basics of the platform. If you haven't already, sign up for an account and explore the dashboard to get a feel for the interface.
Preparing Your PDF
DocuSign supports a variety of file types, but for fillable fields, you'll need to start with a PDF. If your document isn't already a PDF, you can convert it using various tools available online. Ensure your PDF is clean and doesn't have any security restrictions that could prevent DocuSign from adding fields.
Once your PDF is ready, it's time to add the fillable fields. DocuSign uses Anchor Tags to place fields in your document. These tags are added to the PDF using a text editor or a PDF editing tool. The most common fields you'll add are text, checkbox, radio button, and signature fields.
Adding Text Fields
Text fields allow signers to input information into your document. To add a text field, you'll need to insert an anchor tag into your PDF. The format for a text field anchor tag is: . Replace "field_name" with a unique name for your field. For example, .
You can also specify the size of the field using the "size" attribute. For instance, will create a text field that is 30 characters wide. Place this tag where you want the field to appear in your document.
Adding Checkbox and Radio Button Fields
Checkbox and radio button fields allow signers to select one or more options. The anchor tags for these fields are slightly different. For a checkbox, use: . For a radio button, use: . Replace the placeholders with appropriate values.
For radio buttons, ensure that all buttons in a group have the same "group_name" but different "option_value" attributes. This ensures that only one option can be selected. Place these tags where you want the fields to appear in your document.
Uploading Your PDF to DocuSign
Once you've added all the necessary fields to your PDF, it's time to upload it to DocuSign. Log in to your account and navigate to the "Prepare" tab. Click on "Upload a Document" and select the PDF you've prepared.
DocuSign will then scan your document for anchor tags and add fields based on the tags you've included. You can review and adjust the fields as needed before sending your document for signature.
Placing Fields in DocuSign
DocuSign will automatically place fields based on the anchor tags you've included in your PDF. However, you can also manually place fields using the "Place Fields" tool. This is useful if you want to add fields that aren't based on anchor tags or if you need to adjust the position of a field.
To use this tool, select the "Place Fields" option from the toolbar. You can then drag and drop fields onto your document. DocuSign offers a variety of field types, including text, checkbox, radio button, and signature fields, as well as special fields like date, initials, and list fields.
Sending Your Document for Signature
Once you're satisfied with the placement of your fields, it's time to send your document for signature. Click on the "Send" button and follow the prompts to add recipients and customize your envelope settings.
DocuSign will then send your document to the recipients you've specified. They can fill out the fields and sign the document using any device with an internet connection.
And there you have it! Creating a fillable PDF in DocuSign is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your document signing workflow. With a little practice, you'll be creating and sending fillable documents like a pro. Happy signing!