Quick Start

Get up and running with API Sign in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through creating your first template and sending your first contract for signature.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • An API Sign account
  • Access to the dashboard
  • Basic understanding of digital contracts

Step 1: Create Your First Template

Templates are reusable document structures that you can use to generate contracts. Let's create a simple service agreement template.

  1. Navigate to the Templates section in your dashboard
  2. Click "New Template"
  3. Choose a template name (e.g., "Service Agreement")
  4. Add your document content with placeholders for dynamic data

Adding Template Variables

Template variables allow you to customize documents for each contract. Use the {{variable_name}} syntax:

This Service Agreement is between {{client_name}} and {{service_provider}}.
The services will be provided from {{start_date}} to {{end_date}}.
Total compensation: {{total_amount}}

Adding Signature Fields

Add signature fields where parties need to sign:

  1. Click "Add Field" in the template editor
  2. Select "Signature Field"
  3. Position it where the signature should appear
  4. Assign it to a signer role (e.g., "Client", "Service Provider")

Step 2: Create a Contract from Your Template

Once your template is ready:

  1. Go to Contracts → "New Contract"
  2. Select your template
  3. Fill in the template variables:
    • Client Name: "Acme Corporation"
    • Service Provider: "Your Company"
    • Start Date: "2024-01-01"
    • End Date: "2024-12-31"
    • Total Amount: "$10,000"

Step 3: Add Signers

Specify who needs to sign the contract:

  1. Click "Add Signer"
  2. Enter the signer's details:
    • Name
    • Email address
    • Role (must match your template's signature field assignments)

Step 4: Send for Signature

  1. Review your contract in the preview
  2. Click "Send for Signature"
  3. Signers will receive an email with a link to sign the document

Step 5: Track Progress

Monitor your contract's status in real-time:

  • Draft: Contract is being prepared
  • Sent: Waiting for signatures
  • Partially Signed: Some parties have signed
  • Completed: All parties have signed
  • Expired: Signing deadline has passed

Next Steps

Now that you've created your first contract, explore these advanced features:

Common Issues

Contract Not Sending

  • Verify all signers have valid email addresses
  • Check that all required fields are completed
  • Ensure template has at least one signature field

Signers Can't Access Contract

  • Check spam/junk folders
  • Verify the signing link hasn't expired
  • Confirm the email address is correct

Need help? Check our FAQ or contact support.