Federal legislation in the United States in 2000 opened the door for electronic signatures (e-signatures) as a valid substitute for "wet" paper-based signatures. In addition to streamlining the application process, e-signature and its companion technology, secure electronic documents, create an audit trail that facilitates process transparency and regulatory compliance for product suitability. US insurers investing in straight-through processing capabilities and working with their distribution partners to facilitate e-signature technology will experience long-term competitive and operational advantage.