Which eSign Method Do You Need?
Answer 6 quick questions to find the right electronic signature method for your document. Takes under 60 seconds.
Question 1 of 6
What type of document do you need to sign?
Understanding Electronic Signatures in Indian Law
Indian law recognises multiple forms of electronic signatures, each with different legal standing, use cases, and costs. Choosing the wrong type can mean wasted money on a DSC you don't need, or using an eSign method that isn't accepted for your specific filing.
The 3 Types of Electronic Signatures in India
1. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), IT Act Section 3
A DSC is a cryptographic key pair stored on a USB token, issued by a CCA-licensed Certifying Authority. It is governed by Section 3 of the IT Act, 2000. Required for MCA filings, ITR (companies), GST, SEBI, and government e-tenders. Cost: ₹500-₹2,000/year.
2. Aadhaar eSign, IT Act Section 3A
Aadhaar eSign uses your Aadhaar number and OTP to electronically sign documents. Governed by Section 3A of the IT Act and the IT (Electronic Signature) Rules, 2015. No USB token needed. Valid for all private and business documents. SignYu offers this at ₹15/signature.
3. Handwritten Signature (Physical)
The traditional pen-on-paper signature. Still required for documents excluded under Schedule I of the IT Act: wills, negotiable instruments, powers of attorney for immovable property sale, trusts, and registered sale deeds.
Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| DSC Token | ₹500-₹2,000/year | MCA, ITR, GST, SEBI filings |
| Enterprise eSign | ₹750-₹5,000/month | 100+ docs/month, API integration |
| SignYu (Aadhaar eSign) | ₹15/signature | Individuals, SMBs, occasional signing |
When Is Each Method Legally Required?
DSC is mandatory for: MCA/ROC company filings, Income Tax Returns (companies and auditors), GST registration and returns (certain entities), SEBI filings, RBI compliance, and government e-tenders.
Aadhaar eSign is valid for: Rent agreements, NDAs, offer letters, vendor contracts, affidavits, consent forms, partnership deeds, loan agreements (non-negotiable), insurance forms, HR documents, and all other private/business agreements not listed in Schedule I of the IT Act.
Physical signature required for: Wills, negotiable instruments (cheques, promissory notes), powers of attorney for immovable property sale, trusts under the Indian Trusts Act, and registered sale deeds.
Not sure about your specific document? Check our FAQ or contact our team.