Which date goes next to your signature?
The date next to your signature is the date you signed — today. Not the start date, not the date on the letter. Here's why, and what to do when a document asks for other dates.
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Watch out for
Backdating
Writing an earlier date to mislead someone can be unlawful. If something should apply from an earlier date, say so in the text instead.
Future dates
Don't date a signature in the future.
Blank date boxes
Fill them — blank boxes invite questions.
Getting dates right
Three different dates, three different boxes.
1
Signing date
The day you actually sign — today.
2
Effective date
When the agreement starts; usually written in the text.
3
Document date
The date the document was drafted; don't change it.
Effective date earlier than signing?
That's common and fine when it's written openly: 'This agreement is effective as of 1 March 2026' — while the signatures carry the real dates they were made.
Questions
What if I sign after midnight?+
Use the date of when you sign.
Do both parties need the same date?+
No — each dates their own signature.
What does it cost?+
Free to try. Downloading your signed PDF costs €2.99 a month or €24.99 a year, and you can cancel anytime.