How to Fax from Google Docs

In the digital age, we rely heavily on email and online communication, but there are still times when faxing is necessary. Sending a fax used to require a dedicated machine, but with the advent of online fax services, it's easier than ever to send and receive faxes from your computer. In this article, we'll explore how to fax with Google Docs and whether it's the right choice for you.

What is Google Docs?

Google Docs is a free, web-based word processing program offered by Google. With Google Docs, users can create and edit text documents, spreadsheets, and presentations online. The program allows multiple people to collaborate on a document in real time, making it a popular choice for businesses and individuals alike.

How Can I Use Google Docs to Send and Receive Faxes?

While Google Docs itself doesn't offer a built-in faxing feature, there are add-ons available that allow you to send faxes directly from the program. These add-ons typically connect with online fax services, such as eFax and RingCentral Fax. An add-on allows you to send faxes from Google Docs and receive faxes directly in your email inbox. To use it, you need to create an online fax account and sign in through the add-on. You can then upload the document you want to fax from Google Docs and enter the recipient's fax number. The service will convert the document to a fax and send it to the recipient.

Another option is to use an online fax service that offers a web interface. Many of these services allow you to upload documents and send faxes directly through the web interface, without needing to download any software or add-ons. Some popular online fax services include eFax, RingCentral Fax, MyFax, and Nextiva vFAX.

​​You will be able to receive and save ​the faxes you receive on Google Drive.  At the moment of creating your account with a service, link ​your virtual fax number to your Gmail address. ​Once you do that, you can start receiving fax from email, from where you can save it to your virtual drive with just a click on the attachment button.

Do I Need to Download or Install any Apps to Use Google Docs for Faxing?

Yes, to fax directly from the Google service, you'll need to install an add-on that connects with an online fax service. The process is typically simple and only requires a few steps. Once the add-on is installed, you'll be able to send faxes directly from Google Docs.

Can I Fax from Google Docs Directly?

Yes, it is possible to fax a Google document directly from within the program. Once you've installed an add-on that connects with an online fax service, you can select the document you want to send and enter the recipient's fax number. The document will be converted to a fax and sent through the online service.

To fax a document in Google Drive, you will need to install an add-on that connects with an online fax service. Once installed, you can select the document you want to fax, choose the option to send it as a fax, and enter the recipient's fax number. The document will be converted to a fax and sent through the online service.

Can I Also Use a Fax Service to Fax from Gmail?

Yes, it is possible to send a fax ​through Gmail using an online fax service. Some services offer the ability to send a fax via email, allowing you to attach the document you want to send and enter the recipient's fax number in the email address field. The document will be converted to a fax and sent through the online service.

Faxing a Google Docs Document Using a Fax Machine

If you have a fax machine lying around an want to send a Docs file as fax, you can always do it the old-school way. Print it and run it through the fax machine!

While online faxing has become a popular and convenient option, traditional fax machines are still in use in many offices. If you need to send or receive faxes frequently, it may be worth investing in a dedicated fax machine. However, if you only need to send a fax occasionally, online faxing is a simpler and more convenient option.

Benefits of Using Fax via Google Docs

Online fax services offer several benefits over traditional faxing, including:

• No need for a dedicated fax machine or phone line
• No need to print out and manually send documents
• Ability to send and receive faxes from anywhere with an internet connection
• More secure than traditional faxing

How Do I Send a Fax with Google Docs?

The process for sending a fax with Google Docs may vary depending on the add-on you've installed and the online fax service you're using. However, in general, you'll need to:

1. Install an add-on that connects with an online fax service
2. Select the document you want to fax
3. Choose the option to send it as a fax
4. Enter the recipient's fax number
5. Attach the document to the fax
6. Send the fax

How Do I Enter the Recipient's Fax Number?

The recipient's fax number can typically be entered directly into the add-on you've installed. Some services may also allow you to enter the number via email or through a web interface.

Do I Need to Have a Google Account to Send a Fax?

No, while Docs is a service offered by Google, you don't need a Google account to use an online fax service. However, some ​Google fax services may require you to create an account to use their service.

FAQ

What Information Do I Need for the Recipient's Fax?

Before sending a fax, you'll need to know the recipient's fax number. You may also want to include a cover page with the fax, which should include your name, contact information, and a brief message or description of the faxed document.

Do I Need to Attach the Document to the Fax?

Yes, you will need to attach the document you want to fax to the fax itself. This can typically be done through the add-on you've installed that connects with the online fax service.

How Do I Confirm That My Fax Has Been Sent?

Most online fax services offer a confirmation that the fax has been sent. You may also be able to check the status of the fax through the service's website or app.