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Template merge fields not working for PowerForm envelopes

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We have several envelope templates with merged fields in the DocuSign email alert. For example, the subject line for the email alert is: Please Sign: {signer email address}. We use a PowerForm with each of these templates.

We created the templates and PowerForms in 2022. In September 2024, I noticed that the merged fields were not appearing in the email subject when the template was initiated via PowerForm. 

I submitted a support ticket (case # ********) and after several weeks, this was their response:

We have explored several workarounds to meet your needs, but unfortunately, the existing behavior of Docusign with power forms does not allow for the intended functionality. While the merge field works seamlessly for standard envelope sends, it seems we have hit a roadblock with the power form setup.

They suggested I post to this forum so developers could use as a “new feature” idea. However, it’s not a new feature; it used to work. Also, there are DocuSign “how to” articles on this very topic, and it explicitly states that it works when using PowerForm (exception being custom fields, which a sender email address is not). 

Here is the article on merge fields:

https://support.docusign.com/s/document-item?language=en_US&rsc_301&bundleId=xry1643227563338&topicId=bat1578456393880.html&_LANG=enus

 

So, my question is: are you sure, DocuSign, that this is a “roadblock”? Or is this a known bug? Or should another technician review my case? 

Best answer by abcraych

Thank you, Melanie! The technician took another look and recommended creating a new PowerForm for the same template. He suggested, also, removing the name and email from signers on the template, but that ended up not being necessary. 

For others running into this issue, here are the suggested steps:

1. Open the template you want to use for the PowerForm creation.

2. Select the "Edit" option, leading you to the recipients' page.

3. Ensure that all recipient fields have their roles typed in, but please ensure that only the contact whose information is used as a merged field includes a name and email address. (Poster note: I left multiple signer names and emails in tact)

4. Once you’ve made these adjustments, please click "Save."

5. Return to the same template, and click on the three dots on the far right to select "Create PowerForm."

6. Finally, in the lower right corner, click "Create." This will provide you with the PowerForm URL, which you can then copy and send to your recipients for them to fill out.


 

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Community Moderator
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Hello ​@abcraych,

Thank you for contacting us, and welcome to the DocuSign Community! We are excited to have you here and eager to share our knowledge with you.

I acknowledge the problem you’re facing with the merged fields not showing up in the email subject line when using PowerForms. I truly apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

You are right. This functionality is indeed available in PowerForms, so we need to investigate further to understand why it isn’t working in your situation. I have reached out to the expert managing your case. If you do not receive a response within 24 hours, please let me know.

Note: Some advanced features and options are supported only in specific Docusign plans. Your account plan might not support some of the options discussed in this help topic. Contact your account administrator for more information about which options are available for your account. Or, visit our Plans and Pricing web page for more details on the features included with your plan. Compare eSignature plans & pricing.

 

Best regards,

Melanie | Docusign Community Moderator

"Select as Best" below if you find the answer a valid solution to your issue

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  • abcraychNewcomer
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  • March 19, 2025

Thank you, Melanie! The technician took another look and recommended creating a new PowerForm for the same template. He suggested, also, removing the name and email from signers on the template, but that ended up not being necessary. 

For others running into this issue, here are the suggested steps:

1. Open the template you want to use for the PowerForm creation.

2. Select the "Edit" option, leading you to the recipients' page.

3. Ensure that all recipient fields have their roles typed in, but please ensure that only the contact whose information is used as a merged field includes a name and email address. (Poster note: I left multiple signer names and emails in tact)

4. Once you’ve made these adjustments, please click "Save."

5. Return to the same template, and click on the three dots on the far right to select "Create PowerForm."

6. Finally, in the lower right corner, click "Create." This will provide you with the PowerForm URL, which you can then copy and send to your recipients for them to fill out.


 

M
Community Moderator
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Hello ​@abcraych,

I appreciate the update and your insightful contributions and I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. Favor, may you please mark your answer as the "Best Answer ✅" by clicking “Select as Best.” It helps other community members who might have similar questions. Thank you and have a great one!

 

 

Best regards,

Melanie | Docusign Community Moderator

"Select as Best" below if you find the answer a valid solution to your issue

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