Q: Can I edit my signature in the PDF afterwards?

It depends on what type of signature was used. 1. Handwritten signature (inserted image, mouse/finger drawing) Yes. As long as the PDF is not finally locked or certified, you can change, move, or replace a handwritten signature at any time. From a legal perspective, this type of signature is not considered a digital signature in the legal sense, but only as a visual mark. 2. Simple or advanced electronic signature (AES) Limited. The signature can only be deleted or replaced if the PDF has not been finally signed or the security settings allow it. After saving, every change becomes visible in the signature verification log, which may affect the legal integrity. 3. Qualified electronic signature (QES) No. A QES is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature and is cryptographically sealed when signing. Any change to the document – including moving or deleting the signature – immediately invalidates the QES. The document can no longer be edited without destroying the entire signature. If you have further questions, you can contact support anytime. ilovepdf.com/en/contact

Question 1

Is uploading my PDF for signing secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, usage is completely free. No registration is required, there are no hidden costs and PDFs are created without watermarks. More information can be found here: ilovepdf.com/en/help/security

Question 2

Are my files saved after upload or automatically deleted?

Accepted Answer

All files you upload are protected throughout the entire process. They are used solely to create your requested output file (e.g. PDF file), and all data is always transmitted encrypted.

If you do not delete them manually, the system automatically and permanently deletes your files after no more than 2 hours. This excludes third-party access. There is no permanent storage. More information can be found here: ilovepdf.com/en/help/legal

Question 3

Can I upload and insert a handwritten signature?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can upload a photo of your signature. Depending on the platform you use for signing, you can also sign directly with your mouse, a stylus, or your finger on the screen.

Question 4

Can I have multiple people sign online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can place multiple signatures, invite additional signers, or insert text and date fields.

Question 5

How can I insert my name, date, or initials into the PDF?

Accepted Answer

You have numerous options for optional fields. Free text input, date, name, initials, and more. You can simply place the optional fields freely on your PDF document via "drag and drop".

Question 6

Does PDF signing also work on mobile, tablet, Mac, or PC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the Mobile App for free on your phone at ilovepdf.com/en/mobile (iOS / Android). The tool also works directly in the internet browser on your phone and tablet.

Another option is to convert your documents offline , meaning not via the online service, but locally on your device. This option is available for Mac and Windows: ilovepdf.com/en/desktop You can also download the iLovePDF app from the Microsoft Store.

Question 7

Can I edit my signature in the PDF afterwards?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what type of signature was used.

1. Handwritten signature (inserted image, mouse/finger drawing)
Yes. As long as the PDF is not finally locked or certified, you can change, move, or replace a handwritten signature at any time. From a legal perspective, this type of signature is not considered a digital signature in the legal sense, but only as a visual mark.

2. Simple or advanced electronic signature (AES)
Limited. The signature can only be deleted or replaced if the PDF has not been finally signed or the security settings allow it. After saving, every change becomes visible in the signature verification log, which may affect the legal integrity.

3. Qualified electronic signature (QES)
No. A QES is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature and is cryptographically sealed when signing. Any change to the document – including moving or deleting the signature – immediately invalidates the QES. The document can no longer be edited without destroying the entire signature.

If you have further questions, you can contact support anytime. ilovepdf.com/en/contact

Question 8

Why can't I sign certain PDFs?

Accepted Answer

Possible reasons:
– PDF is password-protected
– PDF is certified
– PDF contains restrictions (“no changes allowed”)
– PDF comes from a scanner with a locked security profile

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