Creating Your First Document Request

Learn how to create secure document requests that clients can easily respond to while maintaining the highest security standards.

Before You Begin

Ensure you have:

• ✅ Completed your account setup
• ✅ Professional profile configured
• ✅ Client's email address ready

Step 1: Opening the Request Modal

From your dashboard, locate the primary action button:

• Click "Request Documents" or "+ New Request"
• The request creation modal will open

Quick Access Options

You can also create requests from:

• Navigation menu > "New Request"
• Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + N (when on dashboard)

Step 2: Setting Up Client Details

Client Information Required

• Full Name: Client's complete name as it should appear
• Email Address: Where the secure link will be sent
• Description (Optional): Internal note about this request

Best Practices for Client Details

• Use formal names: "Mr. John Smith" rather than "John"
• Verify email: Double-check spelling to avoid delivery issues
• Clear descriptions: Help you identify the request later

Step 3: Configuring Request Settings

Upload Window

Choose how long clients have to upload documents:

• 24 hours: Urgent requests
• 48 hours: Standard timeframe
• 72 hours: Complex document gathering
• 168 hours (1 week): Maximum flexibility

Download Window

Set how long documents remain available after upload:

• 24 hours: Highly sensitive documents
• 72 hours: Standard business documents
• 168 hours: Maximum accessibility

Security Settings

• File types: PDF, JPG, PNG automatically accepted
• Size limits: 10MB per file maximum
• Encryption: AES-256 automatically applied
• Malware scanning: Real-time protection enabled

Step 4: Personalizing the Message

Default Message Template

FileSeal provides a professional template, but you can customise:

"Hello [Client Name],

I need you to securely upload some documents. Please use the secure link below to upload your files safely.

This link is unique to you and will expire after [timeframe] for security."

Customization Tips

• Add specific document requirements
• Include your contact information
• Explain why you need these documents
• Set clear expectations about timeframes

Step 5: Sharing the Secure Link

Automatic Email Delivery

When you create the request:

1. Client receives professional email immediately
2. Email includes secure upload link
3. Clear instructions provided automatically
4. Your professional branding included

Manual Sharing Options

You can also:

• Copy the secure link to share via other channels
• Share the link through your practice management system
• Include in existing email conversations

Step 6: Monitoring Request Status

Dashboard Tracking

Your request appears immediately on the dashboard with status:

• 🟡 Pending: Link sent, awaiting upload
• 🔵 Sealed: Documents uploaded, ready for download
• 🔴 Expired: Time limit exceeded

Email Notifications

You'll receive alerts when:

• Client uploads documents
• Request is about to expire
• Technical issues occur

What Your Client Sees

Understanding the client experience helps you support them:

Professional Email

• Clear subject line with your name/firm
• FileSeal security explanation
• Simple upload instructions
• Prominent "Upload Documents" button

Upload Interface

• Clean, professional design
• Drag-and-drop file upload
• Real-time progress indicators
• Security confirmation messages

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Client Can't Find Email

• Check their spam/junk folders
• Resend from your dashboard
• Share link manually if needed

Upload Errors

• Verify file types (PDF, JPG, PNG only)
• Check file sizes (under 10MB each)
• Try different browser if issues persist

Security Concerns

• Explain FileSeal's encryption to clients
• Share security documentation if requested
• Emphasize one-time access protection

Advanced Request Features

Bulk Requests

For multiple clients:

• Create template messages
• Use consistent settings
• Track all requests from dashboard

Request Modifications

After creation, you can:

• Extend expiry times
• Cancel active requests
• Resend notification emails

---

Next Steps: Learn about the complete document workflow or explore security features.