Learn how to make a PDF invoice with fillable fields and e-signature options. Create and send professional PDF invoices in minutes.

Making a PDF invoice is a simple way to streamline your billing flow. You can create a template and reuse it for many clients or projects. On your clients’ end, a PDF invoice is easy to complete and return digitally.

In this guide, you will learn how to structure your invoice, add fillable fields, and share it using a secure browser-based tool like PDF.net. You will also find useful tips for customizing your PDF invoice to reinforce your brand identity.

A PDF invoice needs to include detailed business information and client information. It must also have itemized services, payment details, and invoice specifics.

Invoice specifics include a unique identification number, an issue date, and a payment date. It can also have purchase order numbers provided by clients.

You can make a PDF invoice easily using PDF.net. Upload it, add fillable fields, including a signature line, save an editable file, and send it to your client.

PDF invoices are viewable across devices and platforms, so you can count on them to display accurate details to your clients every time. They are also more secure.

Essential Elements Every PDF Invoice Must Include

Before making a PDF invoice template, you will need to know what it needs to be legally valid, clear to clients, and compatible with payment systems. Let’s explore that in detail now.

#1. Business Information and Branding Requirements

Any relevant tax and registration ID numbers

This section will go under your “Invoice” header. It serves as your professional identity, so it is important to provide precise details.

They will help clients recognize your business easily and indirectly build trust. It is also recommended to 

 alongside your logo to enhance consistency and make your PDF invoice more polished across different platforms.

Client details for a PDF invoice include their:

Contact information (Phone number and email)

Right beneath that, add essential invoice specifics, such as the 

Every invoice should have a unique identifier for you and your client to track and refer back to in the future if needed. Also, include 

provided by your client. These details will ensure that your PDF invoice remains professional and minimize the chances of delays and misunderstandings.

#3. Itemized Services and Payment Information

You need to list all services or products provided in an itemized format when you make a PDF invoice. This just means that each item should have its own line along with a 

description, quantity, rate, and total amount

. Customers will be able to understand exactly what they are paying for.

subtotal, any taxes or discounts, and the final total

. Do not forget to include your preferred payment methods, bank details, or links to payment platforms. If you have any notes or reminders, you can add them at the end.

You can create your PDF invoice with PDF.net in just a few steps. Although it might seem a bit intimidating, 

PDF.net will do the heavy lifting for you

You can start from a PDF invoice template or upload a document created in Word, Excel, or Google Docs — PDF.net will automatically convert it into a fillable PDF. Once uploaded, your file will open in a browser with a suite of tools.

#2. Add Fillable Fields for Client Information

Next, add fillable fields in PDF for client information by clicking the 

function on the toolbar at the top of the page.

Choose from eight options and place them where they are needed. PDF.net offers:

All options are fully customizable, so make sure you label them clearly to avoid confusion. In this step, you can select your specific colors and fonts for branding.

Do not forget to include a signature line at the bottom when making your PDF invoice. This will enable your client to approve and authorize the payment formally. Choose the 

and then click anywhere on the screen to insert the signature line. You can resize and customize the signature style as needed.

Once you have added all the necessary fields to make a PDF invoice, save your document as a 

. PDF.net lets you do this in just a few clicks, preserving all fields and formatting exactly as designed. This also allows you to reopen and revise it later to update details or reuse it as a template for other clients.

The final step is to send the PDF invoice over to your clients. They can open the invoice and, if necessary, digitally sign the PDF directly in the browser. There is no need to look for other digital signature tools. PDF.net offers three methods upon clicking on the 

Your customer can enter their name and create a signature with a ready-made font. They can also change the color.

Your customer can handwrite their signature using a mouse or trackpad. They can also adjust the thickness of their strokes.

Your customer can drag and drop a signature image (JPG or PNG) from their device.

When the signature is inserted, your client can resize and reposition it as needed. To protect their signature, they can also lock the file.

Why PDF Invoices Are Essential for Modern Business

A major benefit of making a PDF invoice is that no matter what device or platform your client uses to view it, the invoice looks exactly as you intended. This 

consistency reinforces your business’s professionalism

 and ensures no essential details are lost due to display issues.

Security is another reason why it is necessary to know how to create PDF invoices. You can 

restrict editing and add password protection

 to protect sensitive information. Unless you grant permission, a PDF invoice is uneditable and, thus, suitable for 

. It also meets legal requirements for businesses to retain accurate records of transactions.

Beyond Invoicing: Other Essential PDF.net Tools


Aside from making a PDF invoice, you can 

use PDF.net’s built-in features to manage digital documents efficiently

. For example, you can create, edit, merge, and 

, and comments to collaborate with others directly inside the file. The fillable forms you use to create a PDF invoice are also useful for creating onboarding documents, registration sheets, and order forms.

If you are working with sensitive information, you will be glad to know that 

 and automatically deletes files after processing

. And the best part is that you can do all this from your browser. You will not have to download or sign up for an account.

Now that you know how to create a PDF invoice, you can 

take control of how your business communicates and presents itself to clients

. A polished invoice helps build trust and ensures all details are easy to understand.

With a handy tool like PDF.net, creating and sending PDF invoices takes just minutes

. You can make, customize, and send invoices directly from your browser. Explore its features to streamline your process and leave a polished impression every time.

#1. Can clients fill out and sign PDF invoices on their mobile devices?

Yes, clients can fill out and sign PDF invoices on their mobile devices

. Most modern PDF invoices are mobile-friendly and can be filled out or signed on smartphones and tablets. PDF.net supports electronic signatures across mobile browsers.

#2. Are PDF invoices legally binding for business transactions?

Yes, PDF invoices are legally binding for business transactions

 if they include electronic signatures. E-signed PDFs are valid under the 

#3. How can I ensure my PDF invoice template works with different accounting software?

To ensure your PDF invoice template works with different accounting software, 

use a standard layout with clearly labeled fields

. Convert the invoice to PDF with PDF.net to make it easier to integrate with platforms that support PDF imports.

#4. What should I do if clients have trouble opening or filling out my PDF invoice?

If clients have trouble opening or filling out your PDF invoice, 

ask them to reopen it with a trusted PDF viewer or browser like PDF.net

. You can also test before sending your invoice in PDF format to ensure all fields work properly.

How to Make a PDF Invoice: Create Simple Invoices in Minutes

Understand what the ESIGN Act is, how it came to be, and how it ensures electronic signatures are legally valid across the U.S.

The ESIGN Act is a U.S. federal law that grants electronic signatures the same legal validity as handwritten signatures

. ESIGN is short for Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act.

It applies to transactions in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, so it is foundational for digital contracts, agreements, and forms. This article covers the purpose of the ESIGN Act and explains how it works with state laws and how tools like PDF.net can help you use e-sign documents legally.

The ESIGN Act is a U.S. federal law that gives electronic signatures the same legal validity as handwritten signatures for transactions in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce.

The act is combined with UETA and ESRA on the state level to provide individuals and businesses with a comprehensive legal framework regarding the matter.

Under this law, an electronic signature must meet specific requirements, such as the intent to sign, disclosure of rights, and record retention, to be legally binding.

Some documents, including wills and court orders, cannot be signed electronically.

You can use PDF.net to sign documents digitally, complying with the ESIGN Act; it also offers tools to convert, merge, compress, and protect PDF files.

The ESIGN Act was introduced after the UETA in 1999, with the purpose to resolve legal uncertainty amidst the growth of digital transactions. It went into effect in 2000 and has worked in tandem with the UETA ever since.

The Legislative History Behind Electronic Signature Laws

By the late 1990s, the growth of the Internet and e-commerce revealed major limitations in existing signature laws. Businesses frequently encountered legal uncertainty because state laws varied drastically, and this dampened economic prosperity.

In 1999, the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA) was introduced as a model for recognizing electronic signatures and records at the state level. However, because digital commerce continued to grow across state boundaries, Congress acted to establish a national standard.

President Bill Clinton signed the ESIGN Act

, which went into effect on October 1, 2000. 

The purpose of the ESIGN Act was to validate electronic signatures for transactions that occur in or affect interstate or foreign commerce.

“A signature, contract, or other record relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form.” (Section 101 (a)(1))

“A contract relating to such transaction may not be denied legal effect, validity, or enforceability solely because an electronic signature or electronic record was used in its formation.” (Section 101 (a)(2))

This means the ESIGN Act ensures that an electronic signature, or e-signature, carries the same legal weight as a handwritten one. However, certain requirements must be met. These include

 intent to sign, consent to conduct business electronically, and reliable record retention.

The ESIGN Act defines an “electronic signature” as an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or logically associated with a contract or other record that has been adopted or executed by a person with the intent to sign and record. (Section 106 (5))

Furthermore, a digital signature using public key encryption technology or an appellation of a person’s name at the end of an email would still qualify as an electronic signature. This is true as long as the signer adopted or executed the “symbol,” and it identified the signer.

Federal vs. State Jurisdiction and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act

While ESIGN is a federal law, it works with the UETA

, which has been adopted by 49 states. According to the UETA,

“If a law requires a record to be in writing, an electronic record satisfies the law.” (Section 107-12A)

“If a law requires a signature, an electronic signature satisfies the law.”

New York is the exception, but it maintains its own set of e-signature rules under 

the Electronic Signatures and Records Act (ESRA)

The UETA is different from the ESIGN Act in that it is a model state law. This means that every state in the U.S. can adopt and tailor it to their specific legal requirements. However, each state is still required to have some type of law that regulates the 

Together, the UETA and the ESIGN Act establish a uniform framework for electronic transactions in the United States. This way, they give businesses and consumers legal certainty when using e-signatures.

To comply with the ESIGN Act, you must meet several conditions and understand how ESIGN works in real-world digital transactions.

the ESIGN Act requires affirmative consent.

 Before any PDF document is signed, the person signing has to clearly agree to conduct business electronically. They must also be informed of disclosures outlining their rights, which include the rights to:

Request a paper version of the electronically signed document

Understand the fees associated with requesting paper versions of records

Understand the hardware or software needed to access electronic records

 Any electronic record, defined as a contract or other record created, generated, sent, communicated, received, or stored electronically (Section 106 (4)), must accurately reflect the original document and remain accessible to all authorized parties.

The document must also be reproducible in a legible format

, such as a signed PDF, and retained for the legally required period.

The ESIGN Act allows for the use of “electronic agents,” such as a computer program, an electronic, or another automated signature tool, as long as the signature can be attributed to a person.

If you are wondering whether there are some documents where electronic signatures are not accepted, the answer is yes.

 Some documents are explicitly excluded, which means they can’t be signed electronically under ESIGN

Court orders, notices, or official court documents like briefs and pleadings required for court proceedings

Legal notices involving adoption, divorce, or other family law matters

Notices of utility service termination, such as those for water, heat, and power

Recalls of products, notices of products’ material failures, and documents required for handling hazardous materials like pesticides

Cancellations of health or life insurance benefits (Excluding annuities)

In the context of insurance, the purpose of the ESIGN Act is to streamline digital interactions between providers and policyholders. It allows insurance companies to obtain consent, deliver policies, and collect signatures electronically. However, it still needs to meet the requirements outlined above.

An insurance agent or broker that enters into an electronically signed contract may not be held liable for any deficiency in the electronic procedures agreed upon by the parties. This applies as long as the agent or broker has not been negligent, reckless, or tortious and did not deviate from the procedures.

, acknowledged, verified, or signed under oath, it can be done electronically. The notary can e-sign it, and it will be legally binding as long as all the other necessary information, like commission details or dates, is included.

PDF.net provides tools to help you sign documents in a manner consistent with the requirements of the ESIGN Act. 

It is a browser-based tool that you can use to sign PDF documents electronically.

 It allows you to type, draw, or upload your signature, which makes your signature clearly attributable.

Even before signing, PDF.net emphasizes your consent by requiring interactions, like uploading the document and converting it to a valid format. Although not a full electronic consent disclosure, this demonstrates an indirect, good-faith effort toward meeting that obligation.

After signing, you can download and store your document in a reproducible format, preferably PDF. It is also possible to password-protect it and share it with the other party involved by changing PDF access permissions. This ensures that electronic records remain accurate and accessible throughout the retention period.

PDF.net also uses secure connections and deletes files after a short period, helping reduce exposure to unauthorized access. While these features do not equate to full digital certificate authentication, they support the ESIGN Act’s emphasis on data integrity and confidentiality. 

Therefore, it is the best way to sign PDFs legally and efficiently.

Does PDF.net Comply With International e-Signature Regulations?

PDF.net’s features comply with general international e-signature regulations, even though it does not currently advertise full compliance with specific international frameworks. This online PDF editor tool is designed to be simple and accessible. It offers e-signature tools that reflect many of the baseline standards found in global e-signature laws.

For example, it enables basic electronic signing, where a user types, draws, or uploads a signature onto a document. This satisfies the legal definition of a simple e-signature in many countries as long as attribution can be established.

PDF.net also involves specific signature actions, like properly placing the signature in its field to prove that the signer willingly participated in the transaction. Moreover, signed documents can be downloaded, stored, and reproduced in 

, which aligns with most international standards for record retention.

In terms of security, PDF.net uses encrypted 

 to protect data and deletes uploaded documents shortly after processing. 

So, users managing documents across different regions and seeking a straightforward way to sign a PDF can rely on our software with zero worries.

How To Sign Documents With PDF.net: Step by Step

 documents without downloading any software. 

Uploading your document directly onto the platform to start. All you need to do is drag and drop it in.

Use the built-in tool to convert your document into a compatible format before signing. PDF.net supports input files in various formats, including DOC, DOCX, JPG, and PNG.

You can type, draw, or upload your signature and place it where needed once your document is uploaded and the PDF becomes signable.

With PDF.net, you can easily manage financial documents, contracts, and forms. You will have peace of mind knowing that 

your e-signature is safe to use when handled through a secure platform like PDF.net.

PDF.net – Your Secure Online PDF Editor

PDF.net offers a suite of PDF editing tools to help you manage your digital documents.

Besides signing, you can rearrange, delete, or rotate pages and even 

 or fillable form fields. These tools are especially helpful for preparing contracts, reviewing forms, and updating papers without having to reprint, scan, and digitize anything.

It is also possible to merge, split, and 

 for faster sharing. You can easily take charge of many tasks that streamline your workflow with just this one browser-based platform.

If you are looking to edit, convert, or manage PDFs quickly and securely, 

Understanding what the ESIGN Act is can help you navigate digital transactions easily and securely

. This U.S. federal law gives electronic signatures the same legal status as handwritten signatures; however, certain requirements must be met.

As online agreements become more and more common, 

tools like PDF.net simplify the process of signing and managing documents. 

Now that you are informed of your rights and responsibilities under the ESIGN Act, you can stay compliant while also benefiting from the convenience of electronic signatures!

#1. Are electronic signatures created under the ESIGN Act accepted in all 50 states?

Electronic signatures created under the ESIGN Act are 

 49 states also follow UETA, which works in tandem with the ESIGN Act. New York follows ESRA, which is a separate state law, but similarly validates the legality of e-signatures.

#2. What types of documents cannot be signed electronically under the ESIGN Act?

The types of documents that cannot be signed electronically under the ESIGN Act include 

wills, codicils, testamentary trusts, legal notices involving family law matters, utility shut-off notices, court notices and orders, cancellations of health and life insurance benefits, and recalls of products, notices of products’ material failures, and records involving hazardous material.

#3. How does the ESIGN Act protect consumers in electronic transactions?

The ESIGN Act protects consumers in electronic transactions by 

 Consumers must agree to sign documents electronically and get details about their rights, like how to request paper copies, how to withdraw consent, and how to access hardware or software for their electronic records.

#4. Can businesses be held liable for improper electronic signature implementation?

for improper implementation of electronic signatures. Consequences for violating the ESIGN Act include both compliance risks and reputational risks.

ESIGN Act: Digital Signature Laws in America Explained

Learn how to store legal documents safely with physical and digital methods and get tips for security, access, and long-term protection. 

Knowing how to store legal documents properly is essential for protecting your identity, finances, and important life decisions. Without secure storage, documents like living trusts and wills, property records, and contracts can be lost, damaged, or accessed by unauthorized people.

So, regardless of whether you are organizing personal files or preparing for emergencies, 

the right storage practices can make all the difference

. In this guide, you will learn how to store legal documents both physically and digitally, what types of records require long-term protection, and how to keep them safe, searchable, and legally accessible.

Personal identification documents, property and financial documents, and professional legal documents need to be stored safely.

Using locked safes and cabinets and keeping your paperwork away from temperature fluctuations are important when storing legal documents at home.

Storing legal documents digitally involves scanning documents carefully, organizing them, and implementing security measures to protect them.

Follow retention best practices for different document types and review your storage system regularly to keep it organized and up to date.

Use PDF.net to password-protect, split, compress, and manage your legal documents safely and conveniently online.

Essential Legal Documents That Require Secure Storage

Keeping legal documents protected and organized helps ensure you have access to them when needed and that they remain valid and usable over time. Here are the most important types of legal documents that should always be stored securely:

Personal identification documents include 

birth certificates, Social Security cards, passports, marriage certificates, and driver’s licenses

. They are essential for verifying identity, proving citizenship, applying for government benefits, and completing financial and legal transactions.

The consequences of losing or damaging these documents extend far beyond inconvenience. If this happens, you may face complications in replacing lost ID cards, applying for government services, accessing financial information, and traveling.

The interconnected nature of our identification system means that misplacing one document often creates a cascade of problems, as many replacement processes require other forms of ID as proof. This is why proper storage of personal identification documents is of paramount importance.

#2. Property and Financial Legal Documents

Property and financial legal documents establish ownership, financial obligations, and legal rights and can be difficult and expensive to replace if damaged or lost. They include 

deeds, titles, mortgage papers, loan agreements, closing statements, insurance policies, and tax records

The IRS may request these documents during tax audits, which generally cover a 3-year assessment period. Estate attorneys also require access to property deeds and financial records during probate proceedings to establish asset ownership.

For business owners and professionals, this category includes 

business licenses, contracts, intellectual property filings, and employee agreements

. Such documents establish your legal operating authority, define contractual relationships, protect proprietary assets, document employment terms and conditions, and much more.

Losing these documents creates specific legal and financial risks. For example, operating without business licenses can result in fines, lawsuits, and forced business shutdowns.

Blog

How to Make a PDF Invoice: Create Simple Invoices in Minutes

ESIGN Act: Digital Signature Laws in America Explained

How to Store Legal Documents: Do’s, Don’ts, and Best Practices

Do Banks Accept Electronic Signatures? All You Need to Know

How to Optimize PDF for Web: Tips for Faster Loading Docs

What Is Data Residency? Understanding Digital Data Location

Who Keeps the Bill of Sale? Buyer & Seller Obligation Explained

How to Sign Documents on Android (PDFs, Word, and More)

Differences Between Electronic & Digital Signature + Usage Tips