X is for “X” as a Signature Mark

An AI generated image of a whimsical, yellow furred, anthropomorphic letter X. The X has googly eyes with curly eyelashes in the style of a Jim Henson Muppet.

In this reel, I talk about using “X” as a signature mark.

X is for “X” as a signature mark ✖️

Did you know that an “X” can legally function as a signature? An “X” (or similar mark) can be used in place of a traditional signature by someone who cannot write, as long as it’s properly witnessed and noted as “his mark” or “her mark.”

Why does this matter for small businesses and creatives? Because signatures are about intent, not handwriting flair. If your client, contractor, or team member signs with a mark instead of a full signature, that agreement can still be enforceable if executed correctly. ✅

Practical tips:

✖️ Make sure the person’s name is printed clearly near the mark

✖️ Include language like “John Doe, his mark”

✖️ Use a witness when appropriate, and follow your state’s rules

If your contracts come across all kinds of signatures (and marks!), it’s worth having them reviewed so you know what actually holds up.

Questions about whether your agreement is valid? This is exactly what I help with.

Leah Weinberg

Leah Weinberg – founder of Weinberg Legal – is an attorney, a recovering wedding planner, and the author of The Wedding Roller Coaster. She spent a decade planning weddings in and around New York City as the owner of Color Pop Events before returning to her roots as an attorney in 2023 so she could provide legal counsel for wedding and event professionals as well as other creative entrepreneurs who want to feel better equipped to weather the ups and downs of running a small business. Leah’s work and insights have been published online and in print with Vogue, the New York Times, People, CNN, CNBC, Bravo, Martha Stewart, and The Knot, among others.

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W is for Waiver