Verified

What Does It Mean When an Envelope Has Expired?

Updated

When an envelope expires, it means the deadline to sign the document has passed. Once this date passes, the signature process is locked and the invitation links become inactive.  

However, depending on your role, this can easily be fixed without starting over from scratch.

Why Do Envelopes Expire?

When a sender creates a new signing transaction, they have the option to set a specific expiration date. This serves two main purposes:  

  • Contract Deadlines: Ensures agreements are signed within a specific, legally binding timeframe (e.g., an insurance offer or employment contract valid for 14 days).

  • Security & Privacy: Minimizes the window of time that open signature links are active in an inbox, protecting sensitive personal data.

What Should I Do Next?

If You Are the Recipient (The Signer)

You will not be able to open or sign the document using the expired link in your email.  

  • The Fix: Reach out directly to the person or company who sent you the document. Ask them to extend the signing deadline in their Archive so you can complete the process.

If You Are the Sender

Good news: you do not need to recreate a brand-new envelope or re-upload your documents.

  • The Fix: Simply navigate to your Verified Dashboard or Archive, find the expired envelope, and extend the expiration date directly from the document's settings. This will instantly reactivate the original signing links for your recipients.

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