Spanish Phrase
Hace falta una firma.
Meaning
The sentence means “A signature is needed.” It states that a document, form, or any piece of paperwork cannot be completed until someone signs it.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are checking a form, a contract, or any official paper and you notice that a signature is still missing. It works both in spoken requests and in written notes on the document.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hacefaltaunafirma.
Impersonal expression "Hace falta"
"Hace falta" is an impersonal construction meaning "it is necessary / needed". It is followed by a noun phrase that indicates what is required.
Indefinite article "una"
When the required item is not specific, the indefinite article "una" (a / one) is used before the noun.
Noun "firma"
"Firma" means "signature". It is a feminine singular noun, so the article must agree in gender and number.
🗨In Conversation
¿Ya está todo listo para enviar el contrato?
Is everything ready to send the contract?
Casi, pero hace falta una firma.
Almost, but a signature is still needed.
✕Common Mistakes
Hay falta una firma.
"Hay" is not used with "falta"; the correct impersonal form is "Hace falta".
Hace falta firma.
The noun needs its article: "una firma".
Hace falta una firmar.
"Firmar" is a verb; you need the noun "firma" after "falta".
↔Alternatives
Se necesita una firma.
A signature is needed.
Falta una firma.
A signature is missing.
Es necesario que firmes.
It is necessary that you sign.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries, official paperwork often requires multiple signatures (e.g., a client and a witness). "Hace falta" sounds a bit more conversational than the more formal "Se necesita". When you are in a formal setting, you might prefer "Se requiere una firma". Also, remember that the verb "faltar" can be used with or without the article: "Falta una firma" is perfectly natural, but "Hace falta una firma" adds a slight emphasis on the necessity.