How to Fix the Greyed Out Signature Line in Microsoft Word

Several users have encountered a situation where the signature line in Microsoft Word is disabled, rendering digital signatures unusable. Fortunately, there are effective methods that may resolve this issue.

What causes the signature line to be disabled in Word?

This predicament usually arises if the document is either coauthored or had its editing rights restricted.

How to Fix the Grayed Out Signature Line in Microsoft Word?

As a first step, you might want to create a new document to see if you can successfully add a signature line. If you can, it indicates that the issue lies within the specific document rather than with Word itself.

1. Verify That the Document Isn’t Coauthored

1. If you are utilizing SharePoint, confirm that the document isn’t being edited by multiple individuals simultaneously.
2. Navigate to the Review tab and select Restrict Editing.
3. Then, choose Stop Protection.
4. You may need to input a password to unlock the document.

2. Insert the Signature Line Manually

1. Access the Insert tab and select Text Box. Pick your preferred design.
2. Position the text box where you would like your signature to appear.
3. Type several underscores within the text box.
4. Double-click the border of the text box and change the Shape Outline to No outline.

This method serves as a temporary solution, useful for handwritten signatures or when digitally signing documents without relying on Word’s built-in features.

Although the signature line being disabled in Microsoft Word is relatively rare, should it occur, ensure to eliminate protection and check that the document isn’t being coauthored.

Additionally, you can insert multiple signature lines in Word! We have a detailed guide available that walks you through the process.

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