"Print Docusign Document Before Signing: A Step-by-Step Guide"

When you need a document signed, DocuSign is an excellent choice due to its security and ease of use. However, there might be instances where you'd like to print a DocuSign document before signing. This could be for your convenience, to review the document in-depth, or to share a hard copy with others. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this.

Before we delve into the printing process, it's crucial to understand that DocuSign operates digitally, and printing a document doesn't alter its eSignature legality. Any eSignature obtained after printing and signing remains legally binding. Now, let's explore how to print a DocuSign document before signing.

Accessing Your DocuSign Document

First, you need to access your DocuSign document. This can be done via email invitation, from your DocuSign account, or even from within your organization's Document Cloud account.

The process remains largely the same across all platforms. You'll receive an email invitation with a unique link, clicking on which will take you to the DocuSign screen with your document ready for signing.

From Email Invitation

When you receive a DocuSign email invitation, locate the unique signing link and click on it. This will lead you to the DocuSign website where your document is displayed.

Alternatively, you can also click on the 'View and Sign' button in the email to access your document.

From DocuSign or Document Cloud Account

If you've received a reminder or notification from DocuSign, accessing your document is just as straightforward. Click on the document link provided in the notification to access your DocuSign document.

In your DocuSign or Document Cloud account, locate the document, and click on it to open. The process remains the same across different account types.

Printing the DocuSign Document

Once you've accessed your document, the next step is to print it. DocuSign allows you to print documents in different formats to cater to your specific needs.

Here's how you can print a DocuSign document in various formats:

Printing as a PDF

Most users prefer printing DocuSign documents as PDFs. This format retains the document's original layout and appearance, ensuring that signature and fillable fields are preserved. To print as a PDF:

1. Click on the 'Print' button located at the top-right corner of the DocuSign web page. 2. A pop-up will appear where you can choose to print your document as a PDF. Select 'Print as PDF'. 3. Choose the location where you want to save your PDF file using the 'Save as' dialogue box that appears. 4. Click 'Save' to save your document as a PDF file.

Printing as a Hard Copy

If you prefer a physical copy, you can print your DocuSign document directly as a hard copy. Here's how:

1. Click on the 'Print' button at the top-right corner of the DocuSign web page. 2. In the print pop-up, select your printer settings, such as paper size, orientation (portrait or landscape), and other options specific to your printer. 3. Once you've configured your printer settings, click 'Print' to print your document as a hard copy.

Printing with Signature and Fillable Fields

It's crucial to note that when printing a DocuSign document, it's not possible to print it with active signature and fields. Any fillable fields or signature tags in your document will not be functional in the printed version.

However, if you need to sign and fill out your document manually, you can print it with signature and fillable fields disabled. Here's how:

1. Access your DocuSign document. 2. Click on the 'Print' button. 3. In the print pop-up, ensure that the 'Full page' radio button is selected under the 'Layout' section. 4. Click 'Print' to print your document with all active elements disabled.

Reviewing and Signing the Printed DocuSign Document

Once you've printed out your DocuSign document, you can review it as needed. If you've printed it as a PDF, you can review it digitally using a PDF viewer software. If you've printed it as a hard copy, review it physically.

Once you're satisfied with the content, you can sign the document. If you've printed the document with signature and fillable fields, manually sign and fill out the document using a pen. If you've printed it without active elements, you'll need to return to the DocuSign platform to sign and fill out the document digitally.

DocuSign's top priority is security and speed, which makes it an ideal tool for document signing. However, the option to print documents allows for added flexibility, catering to individual preferences and requirements. Now that you know how to print a DocuSign document before signing, you can make the most of this robust eSignature platform.