What Are Facsimile Signatures?
A facsimile signature is a reproduction of your manual signature that can be saved electronically or by engraving, imprinting or stamping. The use of facsimile signatures facilitates the affairs of government personnel or any officials, as an authorized officer’s facsimile signature has the same weight as his manual signature. Facsimile signatures are legal, although they may not be acceptable on all government or private-sector documents.
Time-Saver
Government institutions, universities and private companies allow their personnel to attain facsimile signatures. A company’s employee who works in the payroll department may sign many checks on a daily basis. Similarly, university professors go through many documents daily that need their signature. Additionally, government personnel and agents have many documents that require their signatures daily. Thus, using a stamp that carries the signature may save time and facilitate their affairs.
Mechanical or Electronic
Facsimile signatures are produced mechanically with rubber stamps, imprinting or engraving, and they also can be used electronically. For example, you may use the copy of your signature that you have saved electronically when signing letters or any documents that are on your computer.
Liability Questions
Private institutions such as banks and commercial companies may hold their customers liable in the case of an unauthorized use of a facsimile signature. Thus, when dealing with an organization that you will do business with on a regular basis -- such as your bank -- request another security check to go along with the facsimile signature. You may agree on a three-digit number password to be printed on top of the facsimile signature.
Security Issues
Those who use facsimile signature must be keen on protecting themselves from fraud. You must secure a safe storage for your facsimile signature, whether the signature is on a stamp or saved electronically. In the case of a missing facsimile signature, report your facsimile signature stolen to the parties that you deal with immediately.
Writer Bio
Adam Benks is a writer in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. His articles specialize in food, travel, business and technology. Benks has published work for Merimex Corporation. He holds a college diploma in business administration and is currently working on his Bachelor of Arts.
