The Struggle of Inaccessible Signatures for Blind Users
It's the end of a long workday, and I've arrived at the task I'm dreading the most. For most people, that would be a long, boring meeting or tedious work. While those are dreadful, one nightmare awaits me: a ten-page form requiring a signature at the end.
Filling out the form is the easy part. I've spent the last fifteen minutes completing it, wondering if I'll regret this. And then, bam. Here it is. The last page. It requires me to draw a signature on my screen.
With a screen reader, I can't edit the field. I can't draw my signature.
Now I'm stuck. Either I have to start from scratch and show up early for my appointment to fill out the forms in person, or I need sighted help. I close my laptop in frustration.
"Not again."
Contents of Accessible Digital Signature Solutions
Practical Solutions for Digital Signatures
Inaccessible signature fields are an inconvenience faced by the blind every day. We find them on government websites, doctors' offices, and even when signing up for recreational activities. Thankfully, there are three main ways to sign forms accessibly, and they improve the process for all users, not just the blind.
Checkbox Attestation (Fast and User-Friendly)
The first option is a checkbox attestation. Instead of asking someone to draw a signature, the form simply includes a checkbox and a typed name field. When a user checks the box and types their name, they legally agree to the document just as if they had signed it by hand. It's simple, fast, and works seamlessly with screen readers. Better yet, it removes unnecessary steps for everyone, sighted or blind.
PIN or Password Authentication (Secure and Accessible)
The second option is PIN or password authentication. Instead of signing by hand, the user enters a secure code to verify their identity and intent. This method is especially common in healthcare and financial settings where security matters most. It's already used by services like FAFSA and the IRS, where a login or PIN serves as a legal signature. It's just as legally binding as a handwritten signature and is fully accessible if the fields are labeled correctly. Plus, it offers an extra layer of protection by tying the signature to something only the user should know.
Uploading a Signature Image (Traditional with Flexibility)
The third option is uploading an image of a handwritten signature. Instead of drawing on a screen, the user can upload a photo or scanned copy of their real signature. As long as the upload button is labeled correctly, the process is fully accessible with a screen reader. This method keeps the traditional "signature look" that some organizations still want while avoiding the technical barriers of drawing one. It’s a simple workaround that respects both accessibility and tradition.
Comparing Signature Methods: What’s Most Accessible?
Though this method is accessible when buttons are labeled correctly, it is the least blind-friendly option of the three. First, a blind person must take a high-quality picture of their signature, either with sighted assistance or possibly with an app. Beyond that, it challenges users who struggle to use technology to select and upload the file. Nevertheless, it is still a major improvement over trying to write a signature with a touchscreen.
Are Drawn Signatures Really Secure?
But isn't writing a signature with a finger or stylus more secure?
No. First, no digital signature can stand on its own. The person accepting the signature must be able to verify identity and intent under the law. This is accomplished by recording the date and time, IP address, login credentials, and other authentication details. Second, digitally captured signatures vary widely depending on the hardware and software used. People often write their signatures differently on paper than on a screen. Various organizations are working to improve methods for capturing digital signatures, but for now, the most accurate way to create a digital signature that can withstand forensic analysis is to tightly control the software and hardware used by the signer.
Move Forward with Accessible Signatures
Blind people should not have to worry about reaching the end of long forms only to encounter a roadblock, especially when that barrier is legally meaningless. We should not have to rely on sighted assistance when it is possible to independently sign the form. Why should we have to disclose our private health information to a receptionist, sometimes within earshot of other patients? Especially in healthcare, this can jeopardize our health if we are nervous about disclosing certain conditions out loud.
This is just one example of the barriers inaccessible signature fields create. It's time to move on to practical solutions that respect privacy, independence, and the basic right to complete a form without unnecessary roadblocks. Better options already exist. It's time to use them.
More Resources on Digital Accessibility
If you're committed to making your digital content accessible to everyone, we have more resources for you:
How to Make Your Word Documents Accessible – Step-by-step guidance on creating accessible documents that everyone can use.
The Ultimate ADA Compliance Employer Checklist – Ensure your workplace meets ADA standards and fosters an inclusive environment.
Digital Accessibility Compliance Part 3: Bridging Skills Gaps – Learn how to equip your team with the skills needed for ongoing accessibility compliance.
Looking for more insights? Explore our full collection of accessibility guides on the AccessAbility Officer Blog.