How to Turn Off Your Automatic Email Signature in Gmail

You have the option to include a signature — or not

Gmail : Illustration
Chesnot / Getty Images
by Heinz Tschabitscher
An independent writer who has reviewed hundreds of email programs and services since 1997.
Updated April 09, 2019

Gmail allows you to include custom signatures — text and/or image signoffs appended to the end of emails — automatically. If you'd like to turn this feature off, the process is very simple.

To stop Gmail from automatically adding a signature to every email you compose:

  1. Click the Settings gear icon (⚙) in Gmail's navigation bar.

    Click the Settings gear (⚙) in your Gmail's navigation bar.
    Click the Settings gear (⚙) in your Gmail's navigation bar. Google, Inc.

  2. Select Settings from the menu that has appeared.

  3. Go to the General tab.

  4. Make sure No Signature is selected under Signature. Gmail will save any signatures you have set up for your accounts; you do not have to re-enter them when you turn on email signatures again.

    Select Gmail signature options

  5. Click Save Changes.

Signature Best Practices

If you turn your email signature back on, ensure that it follows best practices:

  • Keep it simple. Aim for just a few sentences.
  • Remember that embedded images may get lost in forwards and replies. Don't put essential information in graphic format.
  • Think carefully about the personal information you include. You never know to whom a message will be forwarded.
  • Separate it. Traditionally, signatures consist of three or fewer lines separated from the body by a line consisting of just three hyphens.
  • Reconsider including quotes and opinions. Quotes about hot-button social or political issues might not be well-received by all recipients.