Identity verification
Identity verification is the process of confirming that the person signing a document is the person they claim to be, before or while they sign.
Updated November 5, 2026 · 1 min read
On this page
Common methods
- Email: only the person who controls the inbox gets the signing link.
- Access code: a code delivered separately, so a forwarded email isn't enough on its own.
- One-time code by text message: proves control of a phone number.
- Knowledge-based questions: see knowledge-based authentication.
- ID document check: a photo of a driver's license or passport, often matched to a selfie.
- In person: you see the person and their ID while they sign.
Why it matters
A signature has to be attributable to a person. The more a document is worth, or the likelier it is to be disputed, the more proof you want of who signed. A lawn-care renewal needs little; a large loan needs much more. Match the check to the risk instead of putting every signer through the strongest one.
In SignMaster
Signing links go to each signer's own email, and you can add an access code. SignMaster doesn't send text messages or run ID checks. For the strongest check, use in-person signing on your device and look at their ID. An Attachment field can collect a photo of an ID for your records, but you review it yourself.