Why do you see a “By” prior to a signature in a contract?

The “By” prior to a signature simply means that the signer is signing the document on behalf of a company and not on behalf of themselves. If someone signs a document without the “By” there are some interpretations that would put both the company and the signatory on the hook for liability under the agreement. So when signing as an officer of a company or on behalf of the company, make sure there is a “By” even if it is handwritten.

Here is an example:

ABC, INC.

By:______________________ (signature)