A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a highly secured key provided by certifying authority to validate and verify the identity of the person who holds the certificate. To produce signatures, digital signatures make use of public-key encryption methods.

A digital signature certificate (DSC) includes details such as the user's name, pin code, location, email address, certificate issue date, and certifying authority name.

Top 8 Benefits of Digital Signature Certificate

Saves Cost & Time

Many parties must sign an official contract, agreement, or document as it is being prepared. Earlier, papers had to be couriered to all parties and then waited for all signatures to be completed. However, owing to digital signature technology, the process of delivering and certifying papers or any other official paper online is quite fast. This technique saves time, and money, and is completed in a timely and efficient manner.

Enhanced Safety

When it comes to document security, the digital signature is superior to paper or ink signing. The digital signature software guarantees that the document is encrypted and protected from being tampered with or being misused.

Authentication

When operating an online business, it is useful in validating the personal data of the individual holder.

Data Integrity

Digitally signed documents cannot be changed or updated once they have been signed, making the data secure and safe. These certifications are often requested by government officers in order to recheck and validate company transactions.

The Authenticity of the Documents

The legitimacy of papers: 

Receivers of digitally signed documents can be confident in the signer's authenticity. They can act according to such papers without fear of the documents being faked.

Enhanced Customer Service

Everything is digitised today since we live in the digital era.  As a result, a large number of transactions are completed online using personal mobile phones or desktops. Most consumers nowadays demand a digital signature, which is a relatively straightforward practice that also helps to sustain client loyalty.

Efficiency of Business

In comparison to the benefits, the cost of incorporating e-sign into work processes is quite cheap. E-signatures are ideal for organisations of every size and form since they reduce contract turn - around time and workflow time.

No Forgery

There is no better level of protection than signing a document or piece of paper. Because they are supported by a unique digital identity based on established Public Key Infrastructure norms, digital signatures reduce the possibility of falsification

The Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is used to verify its validity. A Digital Certificate or signature gives solid confirmation that the invoice was produced by a verified sender and that the information was not modified in transit. Digitally signed invoices include user identities such as place, time stamp, contract, name, and reason.

How to apply for the Digital Signature Certificate online?

The approved individual affixes a Digital Signature Certificate to papers provided in electronic form. It assures that the papers sent electronically are secure and legitimate. All papers filed on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website have a DSC assigned to them. DSC is used to authenticate online payments such as business or LLP incorporation and income tax e-filing.

Certifying Authority (CA) has been designated by the Controller of Certifying Authority to issue DSC. Class 3 DSC can only be issued by chartered accountants.

Digital Signature Certificate Procedure

Step 1: Login and choose your type of company

Go to the homepage of a Certifying Authority in India that is authorised to issue Digital Certificates. You will be sent to the Digital Certification Services area after you have entered the website. Now, under the 'Digital Certification Services' section, select the sort of entity for whom you want a DSC: 'person or organisation,' for example.

Select the 'individual' option if you're applying for a DSC for yourself. The DSC Registration Form will display in a new tab.  

Step 2: Fill in the necessary information

• The DSC's class.
• Validity.
• Sign just or sign and encrypt.
• Name of applicant and contact information
• The address of your home.
• Identity & GST Number Proof Documents Specifications
• Declaration.
• As evidence of identification, use this document.
• As evidence of address, present this document.
• Officer of Attestation
• Payment Information.

After filling out all of the required information, you must attach a current image and sign the statement. Make sure the form is totally filled out. Make a copy of the final form and keep it safe.

Step 3: Identity Proof and Address Proof

An attesting officer must attest to the supporting document presented as confirmation of identity and residence. Ensure that the attesting officer's signature and seal are clearly visible on the accompanying evidence papers.

STEP 4: DSC Reimbursement

A demand draft or check in the name of the Local Registration Authority where you will submit your application for verification must be acquired for payment of the DSC application. By looking for a Certifying Authority certified to generate Digital Signature Certificates online, you may learn more about the Local Registration Authority in your city.

Step 5: Post the required documents

• Supporting paperwork for Identity Proof and Address Proof confirmed by the attesting official.

• Payment will be made by either method of demand draft or cheque.
• For further processing, address the attached letter to the Local Registration Authority & mail it to the LRA's authorised location.

You have successfully finished the application procedure for your Digital Signature Certificate after completing the above-mentioned stages by filling out the DSC Form and supplying the appropriate papers and payment.

Different Classes of Digital Signature Certificate

The individual or corporation must pick the class on purpose when applying for the certificate. The following are the different types of digital signature certificate classes you can look for:

Class 1: Companies are not permitted to utilise this. It just confirms people's names and email addresses.

Class 2: This is required by businesses and other organisations. A Class 2 digital signature certificate (DSC) checks a person's identification against a trustworthy database that has been pre-verified. However, beginning of January 1, 2021, the Controller of Certifying Authority has ordered that Class 2 Certificates be replaced with Class 3 Certificates.

Class 3: Individuals or companies interested in participating in auction sites or tenders must have this class. It is the most progressive and safe type of digital signature certificate available. In order to acquire this, the applicant must appear in front of the registration authority.

What are the requirements for Digital Signature Certificate applications?

• The candidate must submit a completed DSC Application form. Anyone requesting a Digital Signature Certificate must complete an Application Form for online submission & certifying authority verification of personal information.

• Make a photo of the ID proof.
• Creating the Address Verification Proof

Conclusion

Government agencies have embraced digital signatures as a result of the e-commerce boom, and it is now a legal necessity for many e-forms to be digitally signed by the authorised person. As a result, both persons and businesses must get a digital signature. A digital signature certificate (DSC) verifies the holder's identity. It functions similarly to a PAN card or a passport, allowing the possessor to establish his identity.

Online legal India provides you with the service of a Digital Signature Certificate at a reasonable price. Our experts are here to help you out to file for the digital signature certificate registration online and also to provide you with the best services.