Microsoft 365 Adds Handwritten Signatures to eSignature Feature

Microsoft is enhancing its eSignature for Microsoft 365 service with a new handwritten signature capability that lets users draw their signatures directly on PDF documents using a stylus, touch, or mouse. The feature, rolling out worldwide this week, eliminates the need to print, sign, and scan documents, offering a more personal and authentic signing experience.

The new "Draw" tab appears in the signature panel when users receive a signing request. Users can write their signature in a drawing field, choose different pen colors for customization, and clear mistakes with a single button press. The signature is then placed directly into the PDF document.

How the feature works

When you receive a signing request:

• Open the PDF as usual
• Click to sign and notice the new "Draw" tab
• Write your signature using a stylus, touch, or mouse
• Customize with different pen colors
• Clear and retry as needed
• Click "Done" to place the signature
• Fill remaining fields and submit

The system automatically reuses your drawn signature across multiple fields assigned to you, eliminating the need to redraw for each instance.

Availability and setup

The drawn signatures capability is rolling out worldwide on Microsoft 365 public cloud (excluding Indonesia) and should reach all tenants by mid-May 2026. The feature is enabled by default for all eSignature users - no administrative action is required.

Admins can verify eSignature is enabled under "Pay-as-you-go services" in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center. The service is also available for testing through June 2026, with up to five free signing requests per month for tenants with pay-as-you-go billing enabled.

This update addresses user feedback requesting more natural signing experiences, particularly for official documents like company policies and sales contracts where a handwritten signature adds authenticity and personal touch that typed signatures cannot match.