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Office Technology | Templates

3 Fax Cover Sheet Templates for Small Businesses (+ Free Download)

Published February 20, 2024

Published Feb 20, 2024

REVIEWED BY: Corey McCraw

WRITTEN BY: Silvana Peters

This article is part of a larger series on VoIP .

1. Standard Fax Cover Sheet Template

2. hipaa-compliant fax cover sheet template, 3. sensitive information fax cover sheet template.

• How to Customize & Use Fax Cover Sheet Templates

Why You Need a Fax Cover Sheet

Top cover sheet template design services, frequently asked questions (faqs), bottom line.

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All Fax Cover Sheet Templates

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💡 Quick Tip:

Take advantage of business phone systems that offer fax cover sheet templates to save time from making your own. RingCentral is a VoIP platform that offers various fax cover sheet themes for different occasions.

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A fax cover sheet protects the attached documents and provides more details about their contents or purpose. Fax cover letters are used in personal and business settings where faxes are still commonly used. It often contains critical information about the communication, such as the date, time, number of pages, and a short description or message. Our team created downloadable fax cover sheet templates to provide you with a professional and concise format.

Get inspiration and use our three free fax cover sheet templates to introduce the fax documents you’re sending and ensure your files reach the right person.

Fax cover sheets come in various themes and file types, but the most popular fax cover sheet example includes the standard template for speeding up communications, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant template for protecting patients’ privacy, and the sensitive information template for other highly confidential documents.

Fax cover sheets are particularly useful for businesses with shared fax machines or when the recipient isn’t expecting a faxed document. Download these printable fax cover sheet templates below and customize them according to your needs. We have also compiled a list of platforms that offer personalized cover sheet designs to help you get started.

The standard fax cover sheet template is perfect for sending faxes quickly and without fuss. It makes the subject and message the highlight of your cover sheet, prioritizing the contents of your fax and ensuring it gets to the right end destination. There’s enough space in this template for you to provide an overview of the vital information about the fax.

Download the standard fax cover sheet sample. Fill out the fields electronically or by hand. Print the cover sheet and make it the first page of your manually faxed document, or save it as the first page of your electronic document and fax it virtually.

Standard Fax Cover Sheet Template

To safeguard patients’ electronic protected health information (ePHI), faxes also require compliance with HIPAA. Our HIPAA-compliant fax cover sheet example is designed to protect information from accidentally being disclosed to unauthorized individuals, which would be a HIPAA violation.

If the fax is sent in error to an unauthorized third party, the cover sheet helps protect the information by preventing the accidental disclosure of the faxed document. Thanks to the information included on the HIPAA-compliant fax cover sheet, an unauthorized recipient will let the sender know they received the document in error without needing to read the rest of the content in the faxed document.

HIPAA-compliant fax cover sheets must include a disclaimer explaining that the fax’s content has ePHI. Senders must also explain to the recipient what steps to take to ensure the patient’s information remains confidential if the fax was received in error. We have included an example of the disclaimer needed at the base of our HIPAA-compliant sample fax cover sheet template.

HIPAA-compliant Fax Cover Sheet Template

In some ways, the sensitive information fax cover sheet template is similar to the HIPAA-compliant variation. Both fax cover sheets:

• Clearly label that the information within the fax is confidential
• Include a disclaimer that provides information on what to do with the fax if it is sent to an unintended recipient

The main difference between the two fax cover sheet examples is that the sensitive information cover sheet will likely not be used as a printable fax cover sheet for documents containing ePHI. Instead, it will contain business information you want to keep confidential. These include undisclosed partnerships, unannounced new product lines, confidential information about an employee or job candidate, or other information you don’t want to fall into the wrong hands.

Sensitive Information Fax Cover Sheet Template

How to Customize & Use Fax Cover Sheet Templates

Fax cover sheets cater to various business needs and occasions. Keep it simple by adding a space for the subject line and message, or customize it by downloading a free template to add your company name and logo. You can download and adjust any of these printable fax cover sheet templates for use when each is most appropriate.

Once downloaded, customize the MS Word template in Word, Google Docs, or other word processors. From the template, insert details such as your company logo and contact info for your business. Adding your logo helps recipients quickly recognize your business.

Here are the detailed instructions on how to go about the customizations:

For Google Docs

Download our template and open it in Google Docs. Since you are using a customizable template, you can replace our Fit Small Business logo using the right-click command “Replace Image.” Select the logo file in PNG, JPG, or GIF formats. Change the template’s name by clicking the file name at the top of the tab to save it for future use.

For Microsoft Word

Download our template, and from Word, select the area of the image where you want your logo or information to appear. Select the “Insert” tab at the top of the screen. In the submenu, look for “Picture,” and select the logo file you need in PNG, JPG, or GIF format. Once you’re done, click “Save as” from the drop-down menu and save the document to your device for future use.

There are several reasons to use our fax cover sheet examples, including providing essential information, relaying specific instructions, and keeping contents protected or private. Some fax cover sheets also include a space for senders and receivers to sign and a space for your branding, enhancing your credibility. While fax cover sheets are not required, here are some reasons to use a fax cover sheet template:

• Data privacy and protection: Using a cover page protects sensitive information and ensures confidentiality. For example, sending PHI via fax minimizes the possibility of other unintended recipients reading private details.
• Identification and organization: Use a cover sheet to identify the sender and recipient of the fax, making it easier for receivers to determine the purpose, respond to the communication, or take appropriate action.
• Special instructions or comments: Senders can highlight additional information by including details in the fax cover sheet. For example, by indicating the items for immediate attention, desired response time, and specific handling instructions, you ensure that recipients understand the needed requirements or actions.
• Branding and credibility: Showcase your professionalism as a business by including your company’s logo, tagline, or personalized message on each fax cover sheet. This allows you to reinforce your brand identity and improve your company’s reputation.

Try a template design service or software if these printable, free fax cover sheet examples don’t satisfy your business needs. You can find plenty of affordable solutions that make creating a unique fax cover sheet sample that checks all your boxes easy. Below are a few of our top recommendations:

• RingCentral Fax
• Nextiva Fax

RingCentral is a business phone system that offers online fax functionality. Its base plan starts at $27.99, and users gain access to unlimited internet fax services when they subscribe to its Advanced plan (starting at $35 per user, monthly). Most online faxing services like RingCentral allow users to pick a cover sheet for their faxes with themes such as Ancient, Birthday, Classic, Confidential, and Urgent.

Like RingCentral, Nextiva is a business communications provider with a virtual faxing service that allows users to send and receive online faxes through their computer or mobile device. It offers different customizable options to optimize and personalize users’ faxing experience and allows you to manage cover page details. Unlimited internet fax is offered at its entry-level plan at $30.95 per user, per month.

Visit Nextiva

If you’re looking for design services for your fax cover sheet, you should consider VistaPrint. It’s an online design and printing service known for its affordable prices and fast turnaround. While it is primarily known for printing business cards, it also provides design services for fax cover sheets. It has a wide selection of templates and offers a variety of unique materials. Sign up for its 30-day free trial and upgrade to a premium membership priced at $74.99 annually.

Visit VistaPrint

A designer will be your best option if you have specific design and format requests that require a professional’s expertise. Fiverr professionals’ prices vary—you could find one for as little as $5 or as much as $200. You often get what you pay for, so review each designer’s portfolio and offerings to find the right one for your business.

Visit Fiverr

Choosing a Virtual Fax Provider

If you or your company are looking for a virtual fax service provider and upgrading your communication stack with fax services, here are some points to consider when making your decision:

• Simple, easy-to-use interface: Choose a vendor that offers an intuitive interface so you and your team can quickly figure out how to use the solution.
• Reasonable pricing: A provider with flexible, low-cost pricing allows businesses to respond quickly to market conditions, offer competitive pricing to customers, and better optimize revenue.
• Unlimited cloud storage: Use unlimited cloud storage to send documents digitally, save money on printing, and reduce waste. Limitless digital storage also helps businesses archive and access information quickly.
• Responsive customer service: Choose a solution that can immediately react and satisfy your technical needs, ensuring you can support your clients and remain operational.
• Strict security and privacy protocols: Review a solution’s security and privacy features to ensure your data is safe and secure.
• Robust app integrations: Choose an online fax service with robust integrations and access additional tools and capabilities, such as signature caption and automatic document routing.

Send and receive faxes using the World Wide Web and your mobile devices. (Source: RingCentral )

Consider using a virtual fax provider instead of investing in a physical fax machine. RingCentral’s voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) functionality lets you send a fax from a desktop, mobile, or web browser. Here’s what else you can do with RingCentral’s virtual faxing services:

• Add cover pages
• Schedule fax messages
• Check your fax inbox
• Fax directly to email addresses
• Receive fax alerts
• Scan documents with your mobile device

Can a fax cover sheet be handwritten?

Yes, you can handwrite a fax cover sheet. After downloading the free fax cover sheet templates in this article, you can print them out and manually write the details, depending on your preference. If your team sends faxes frequently, in addition to sharing fax cover sheet templates, we recommend printing multiple copies to make them available to team members.

Which business phone systems provide faxing services?

The best business phone systems include faxing among their VoIP phone features . Aside from RingCentral and Nextiva, providers like Grasshopper, Ooma, and 8×8 have online faxing functionality. Providers often allow fax cover sheet customization so that businesses can stand out. Customized faxing is a great marketing strategy to reinforce your company’s branding and establish credibility.

Can I send a fax cover sheet for international faxes?

Yes, you can use fax cover sheets when sending international faxes. Provide essential information on the cover page, such as the sender’s and recipient’s contact details, the subject, and any additional instructions.

Are there any specific formatting guidelines for a fax cover sheet?

No, there are no strict domestic or international guidelines for fax cover sheets. In terms of best practices, try to keep the content simple, straightforward, and professional. Minimize distractions and opt for standard fonts and spacing, ensuring the information is easily read. Avoid using bright and excessive colors or graphics because this can cause issues with fax transmission due to machine incompatibility.

While faxing isn’t the most popular form of modern-day communication, it still holds an important place in physical documentation. Fax cover sheets aren’t required, but they improve your faxes’ chances of arriving at the right person and prevent potential HIPAA violations.

Use our free customizable fax cover sheet examples to add protection and professionalism to your fax communications. It takes just minutes to download and customize a template for your business.

About the Author

Find Silvana On LinkedIn

Silvana Peters

Silvana is an office technology writer at Fit Small Business, focusing on unified communications, virtual phone systems, and voice-over-internet protocol. She’s passionate about giving small business owners the information they need to succeed. Silvana’s been engaged by various businesses and organizations to produce technical reports and content ranging from current events, business, technology, lifestyle, and development.

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Elevate Communications with Fax Cover Sheets

Ensure every transmission begins with a professional touch with cover sheets. Choose and download from our array of free professional templates, or create your own as a default cover for outgoing faxes.

What is a fax cover sheet?

A fax cover sheet plays a crucial role when sending faxes online, ensuring the protection of your fax's contents once delivered. It serves to identify the sender, the recipient, the subject, and can also offer a brief overview of the attached document's contents.  ‍ Beyond just safeguarding your message, fax cover sheets are versatile tools that can add clarity and detail about the recipient, enhancing the overall communication. Customize cover sheets with your branding or essential information to make your faxes stand out.

What are the categories of cover sheets available via Fax.Plus?

Fax.Plus offers three methods of using cover sheets to meet your fax communication needs.

Cover Sheet Generator

Custom cover sheet, shared cover sheet, how can i add a cover sheet when sending out a fax.

Explore printable fax cover sheet examples & use cases

Fax cover sheets vary based on the fax's purpose and recipient. For casual faxes to colleagues, simplicity is key. Our blank template offers all essential info without unnecessary complexity. ‍ For professional contacts or confidential messages, appearance matters more. Our detailed templates convey importance and confidentiality clearly. Choose from our free fax cover sheets to ensure your messages are professional and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How to Write a Fax Cover Sheet

Effectively sending a fax takes more than just transmitting the pages of the actual document. Without also including a fax cover sheet as page one, you expose yourself to a few easily avoidable risks, like disclosing confidential information, creating uncertainty about the intended recipient or document purpose, or simply appearing unprofessional. 

Luckily, it’s easy to create a fax cover sheet and include one with every fax you send. We’ll show you how.

Write Your Fax Cover Sheet in 3 Easy Steps

If you’re going to send a fax, you want to make sure to include a fax cover sheet with every transmission. The cover sheet makes the who, what, and why about your fax crystal clear to the receiver. A fax cover sheet also serves as a layer of protection for confidential or sensitive documents.

Fax cover sheets are easy to create, and it takes just three steps.

• Decide How You Want to Send Your Fax
• Identify All Essential Cover Sheet Information
• Create A Fax Cover Sheet Template

Ready to level up your faxing game? Let’s get to it.

1. Decide How You Want to Send Your Fax

Today, you have options when it comes to faxing documents. The option you choose dictates how you’ll create a fax cover sheet. 

Use a Traditional Fax Machine

Readers of a certain age surely remember fax machines of old. These are standalone units where you manually type in the recipient’s fax machine telephone number on a keypad, then listen to ringing and the random beeps and hums until your call is connected to the recipient’s fax machine. 

If you haven’t had to fax anything since the early 2000s, you might think those old-fashioned fax machines are obsolete. But you’d be wrong. There are many businesses and organizations that still rely on traditional fax machines to send important documents.

Why? Fax machines can be used without any internet connection, you just need a working telephone line. If your internet connection goes down, you can still fax. Plus, with a traditional fax machine, you don’t have to worry about your physical fax being sent to someone’s spam email folder where it is overlooked. 

Likewise, your faxed documents don’t become part of internet traffic. This eliminates the risk of being intercepted during transmission. And you’ll never question whether your fax was successfully sent, since the confirmation page that prints out at the end offers proof of when, where, and to whom your fax was sent. 

So don’t write off using a traditional fax machine. Depending on your business needs, it may be the preferable way to share important documents with third parties.

Subscribe to an Online Fax Services

Of course, there’s a higher-tech solution for faxing, too. With the advent of online fax services, you can leverage the power of your computer or smartphone to share documents with others–no fax machine or dedicated telephone line needed.

Online fax services offer a number of other benefits, too. They keep all your faxes digitally organized in a single location. They also secure your faxes with 256-bit SSL encryption, the most secure protection publicly available, to keep your information protected as it moves through the cloud.

But one of the biggest features is convenience. With an online fax service, you can send and receive faxes from your computer, tablet, mobile device, and even a fax machine. Yes, that’s right–if you do have a traditional fax machine, it can be incorporated into your online fax service, giving you even more flexibility.

Best of all, online fax services include the option to automatically include a fax cover sheet with every fax you send. You set up your preferred cover sheet options once, and the service takes care of it after that. A fax cover sheet is automatically created for you every time you use the service.

If this type of convenience sounds good to you, check out our comparison guide to the best online fax services . Whether you send just a few faxes each month or are a power faxer, there’s a service that’s perfect for you.

2. Include All Essential Cover Sheet Information

As you create your fax cover sheet, keep in mind that its purpose is to make things crystal clear for the recipient. The more information you include, the better the chance of your document getting to the right person right away.

The information you include also depends on the nature of what you’re sending. Private documents, business contracts, and employment agreements are just a few things that demand a specialized fax cover letter noting the confidential nature of the documents. In some cases, like medical records, specific disclaimer language is required by law.

Basic Information to Include on Every Fax Cover Sheet

No matter what you’re sending, at a minimum your fax cover sheet should include the following:

• Sender’s company info : Display this information clearly to make it easier for the recipient to recognize your fax as a legitimate business communication. 
• Sender’s direct contact information : Include a direct dial telephone number or extension for the fax sender, so they can be quickly contacted with questions or issues related to the fax transmission. 
• Recipient’s name and fax number : Note this on the cover sheet so the fax can be easily sent by anyone and quickly delivered to the correct recipient upon arrival.
• Number of total pages : Include the fax cover page in your total page count so the recipient can verify they received all pages.
• Date of transmission : Include the date you sent the fax so the recipient can easily see when you sent it, no matter when they personally receive it.
• Short message : Explain the purpose of the fax and any special instructions, so the recipient knows why they received it and what they need to do next.

Special Requirements for Confidential Fax Cover Sheets

If you’re faxing anything that contains sensitive or confidential information, you’ll want to be sure that it is clearly noted on your fax cover sheet. While such a notice won’t eliminate the possibility that someone other than your intended recipient will view the information, it does provide a warning, which is the best you can do when sending a fax.

In addition to all the basic information listed above, there are two additional things to include when sending private documents. 

The word CONFIDENTIAL should be prominently displayed on the fax cover sheet. Use a large font and capitalize all letters for maximum impact. The point is to make it easily known that the pages that follow are intended only for the named recipient’s eyes.

A confidentiality clause should also be included, usually at the bottom of the page in smaller font. Again, it isn’t going to eliminate the chance that your fax is viewed by someone other than the receiver, but it at least explains the importance of the confidential materials. You can find many examples of confidentiality clauses, like the one in the example below, by doing a basic Google search.

As a general best practice, you can create a single fax cover sheet that includes these confidentiality notations, and then use the same cover sheet no matter what you fax–confidential or not. Here’s an example of what such a multipurpose sheet might look like.

HIPAA-Compliant Fax Cover Sheets

There’s a separate category of faxes that have special legal requirements for their cover sheets. Any time you transmit a patient’s healthcare information via fax, you’re governed by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. This set of U.S. laws is more commonly known as HIPAA.

It’s very important to be HIPAA compliant when sending faxed medical records. Violating HIPAA can result in large fines.

While HIPAA laws themselves don’t spell out exactly how to design a compliant fax cover sheet, there are basic elements that must be included. In addition to the bullet list above, a HIPAA-specific disclaimer is required. This can replace or be in addition to the general confidentiality disclaimer discussed above. 

Here’s an example of what a HIPAA-compliant fax cover sheet might look like.

Now that you know what to include on your fax cover sheet, it’s time to create your own. 

3. Create A Fax Cover Sheet Template

Let me help you streamline all your future faxes. The best way to do that is with a template.

A template helps you avoid reinventing the wheel every time you send a fax and saves you cumulative time and effort.

If you choose to use an online fax service, it should provide a template you can customize. The service will walk you through the process to create your fax cover sheet when you sign up for a plan.

But even if you intend to send most of your faxes through the online service, there still might be an occasion when you need to send something manually on a fax machine. For those situations, you’ll still want to have a fax cover sheet available. 

And if you’re not using an online fax service, you’ll need to create a fax cover sheet on your own. So no matter what, it’s a good idea to design and keep a fax cover sheet template on hand.

Using Google Docs, Microsoft Word, or other word processing software is the fastest and easiest way to create a fax cover sheet template that you can use again and again. You can find and modify these templates in the software’s template library or import a template from a third-party source.

We picked Microsoft Word for this example since they have a very robust library of fax cover letter templates. Here’s how to create a personalized fax cover sheet template.

From the Word main menu, select File > New from Template .

In the search bar, type in Fax to display all the available fax cover sheet templates.

Select the template you prefer, then choose Create .

Edit the template to your specifications, then click File > Save as Template .

Name your new template , then click Save . Note: The default location will be Word’s template directory, and the default file extension will be .dotx . Do not change either of these settings.

Your new template should now appear at the top of the screen anytime you visit the Word start screen, as shown below.

And that’s all there is to it. Once you create a new fax cover sheet template, it will be ready to electronically fill in anytime you need it. Alternatively, you can print a few and keep them close to the fax machine for those last-minute transmissions. 

Final Thoughts About Writing a Fax Cover Sheet

Whether you use an online fax service or still rely on your trusty fax machine, a fax cover letter is an essential part of the faxing process. They’re easy to create and should be included with every transmission you send.

Make sure you include key information on your fax cover sheet and that it is the first page of your fax. This way the person on the receiving end knows exactly what and why they’re getting something from you.

Privacy Overview

• 📠 Guide: Fax Cover Sheet (with template)

Guide: Fax Cover Sheet (with template)

Fax cover sheet template.

Faxes are used worldwide for many purposes to send fax messages or submit paperwork. Regardless of why you are faxing, you need to include a fax cover sheet, so your fax message gets to the intended recipient. To make things easy, we have created a fax cover sheet template, so all you have to do is print it, fill it out, and fax away.

A good fax template makes it easy to assemble your actual fax message, the fax cover page, fax sheet and accompanying documents, and then all that is left if the fax transmission itself.

What is a Fax Transmission?

A fax message works by the sender feeding a document into a fax machine which scans the content and digitizes it. The data is then sent through phone lines and received on the other end by another fax machine. The receiving machine interprets the data and prints a duplicate copy of the original. Fax technology really is quite miraculous when you think about it.

Quick Fax Machine History

The fax machine was invented by Scottish mechanic and inventor Alexander Bain in 1843. He designed his fax machine using the technology from a telegraph machine. His rudimentary version evolved over time, and by the 1980s, faxing became the most popular way to transmit data. High-end models could save and store the last few faxes. Therefore, if you got a paper jam while your fax message was printing, you could re-print it easily.

With email, scanning, and texting, however, faxing has morphed into a virtual process using wireless technology and moving away from phone lines. The original fax message process is much more secure, however, and cannot be hacked, whereas email, texting, and sending fax messages over the internet can be. Either way, you still need a cover sheet template.

Fax Cover Sheet Basics

When thinking about sending a fax message using a fax cover sheet template, you may be wondering:

How do I make a fax cover sheet?

What should a fax cover sheet include?

Where can I get a fax cover sheet?

Do all faxes need a cover sheet?

Should I include a blank page in my cover sheet?

Does the number of pages include the fax cover sheet?

Rest assured, we will answer all of these questions about fax cover sheet templates and more. We have even provided a couple of examples for you to use for free.

Although your fax message does not require a fax cover sheet, it is important to include one. You need to make sure whoever receives the fax routes it to the intended party, and they know who the sender is. The fax cover sheet template does all of this for you.

You can easily create your own fax cover sheet using Word. Microsoft Word includes a bunch of fax cover sheet templates in their collection. You can also create one from scratch or use our free fax cover sheet template and customize it for your own use.

What is Included on a Fax Cover Sheet?

The next big question is what information needs to be included in your fax cover sheet. As the very least you should have:

From: (your name).

Fax: (your fax number).

Phone: (your phone number).

To: (the company or person who is receiving the fax message).

Attn: (the specific person who needs to get the fax).

Fax: (their fax number).

Phone: (their phone number).

Date: (the date you are sending the fax message).

Re: (in regard to, or what the fax message is referencing).

Pages: (number of pages including the fax cover sheet).

Subject/Message: (a note or message to go with the fax explaining the material - think of this section as your fax cover letter).

The top portion of your fax cover sheet should include information about who the fax message is going to and then who the fax is from. You should also include the total number of pages, so the person on the other end knows they received the entire fax and all pages. You should also include a note to explain the fax message and add any additional details necessary to get your message across.

Always place your fax cover sheet template as the first page of a fax so the recipient sees it on top. Do not include any blank pages. Think of your fax cover sheet as a cover letter. You should always use a fax cover sheet when sending fax messages. Not only is it proper protocol, but it also helps your message get to the right person.

Where Can I Get a Fax Cover Sheet Template?

There are many sources online where you can get free downloadable fax cover sheet templates. We have provided two printable fax cover sheet templates in PDF form to make your life easier. It is important to use a fax cover sheet template whenever sending a fax message. You shouldn’t have any trouble locating a fax cover page to use that suits your needs.

What Does a Fax Cover Sheet Look Like?

A fax cover sheet can be plain or fancy. Depending on where you download your free fax cover sheet template, it may include different features. It should at least have the information we listed above on it. It makes sense to split the information up in boxes or sections to make the fax cover sheet as easy to understand as possible.

Many companies like to print their fax cover sheet on letterhead, so it includes their logo and any tag lines. It also makes it easier for the recipient of the fax message to know where it came from.

Additionally, you can include check-off boxes for things like:

Please recycle.

For review.

Please respond.

Please comment.

Please reply.

Types of Fax Cover Sheets

Online you can find a fax cover sheet template for just about any purpose. Some popular ones include:

Basic cover sheet - a plain fax template.

Medical fax cover sheet template - this fax cover sheet is used for sending medical information to or from healthcare providers or between doctors.

Professional fax cover sheet - this is a generic fax cover sheet for a business to use in a professional context.

Army fax cover sheet - a specific cover page to be used when faxing with someone in the Army.

Military fax cover sheet - this one is intended to be used for any military personnel with another person in the Armed Forces.

Confidential fax cover sheet - this sheet template tells the recipient that the content is private for their eyes only.

Business fax cover sheet - for business use.

PDF fax cover sheet - a PDF format of a fax cover sheet (may be editable or non-editable).

Printable fax cover sheet - a printable format of a fax cover sheet letter.

Blank fax cover sheet - a very basic fax cover sheet with very little content; it could be a printable cover sheet or not.

Generic fax cover sheet - for generic use.

Sample fax cover sheet - a fax cover sheet that is filled out to show you a sample of how you could use one.

Downloadable fax cover sheets - a link to download fax cover sheets.

Free fax cover sheet - a fax cover sheet that you can use for free without paying any fees.

Fax cover letter - a sample cover letter to use with a fax message.

Free fax cover letter - a free fax cover letter you can copy or use with your own fax message.

Printable fax cover sheet - a fax cover sheet you can print and use.

Fax cover letter template - a template to be used and reused when you fax.

Google Docs fax cover sheet template - a fax cover sheet template either stored in Google Docs or to be used with Gmail.

Our free downloadable fax cover sheet templates should be enough to get you started.

How to Fill out a Fax Cover Sheet Template

A fax cover sheet template and fax cover letter are both very easy to fill out. Using a handy fax cover sheet template, you just fill in the blanks and send it with your fax message. Some tips when filling out a fax cover sheet template are:

Always address your fax cover sheet directly to your intended fax message recipient.

Be sure to date it so they know when it was sent.

Fill in the fields with your contact information, including your name, fax number (in case they need to respond to your fax message), and phone number so they can call you with any questions.

Write a detailed fax cover letter with any notes, additional details or information they need to go with your fax.

Provide a subject, so they know what the documents pertain to.

Make sure you count the number of pages and note it on the fax cover sheet (count the fax cover sheet template as a page also).

Check off any boxes, so your recipient knows to respond, contact you back, or keep the fax confidential.

You can fill out a fax cover sheet template and then also send a fax cover letter separately, but in many cases, they will be combined into a single fax cover.

Modern Ways to Fax Messages

Nowadays you don’t even need a fax machine to send a fax message. There are dozens of fax messaging services built into existing technologies. For example, a mobile device app can scan a letter or many pages and fax them all at once. Did you know you could also send a fax through email?

Can you send a fax from Gmail?

Absolutely. Gmail is just an email service, and like any other, you can fax using Gmail. You will need to obtain an online fax number and use a fax messaging service such as RingCentral.

When filling out the email, instead of an email address, use your recipient’s fax number with an @sign and the service you are using. For example, using RingCentral, you would use something like below:

[email protected] . The phone number of the person you are faxing and then @rcfax.com (the fax messaging service you are using). Verify with your fax messaging company what to use here.

Enter your fax cover letter message in the body of the email and then attach any documents you want in DOC, PDF, JPG, or TXT format. When you hit send, your fax message will be transmitted through your fax messaging service to the number you sent it to.

How can I send a fax via email?

Using the process, we outlined above, you can fax using email the same exact way. Your email client or service may be slightly different, but as long as you use the fax number instead of an email address and use the right fax messaging service suffix (e.g., @rcfax.com), your online fax should be sent correctly. Be sure to use the message part of your email template to create a fax cover letter, so your recipient knows what the fax is about. If you want, you can attach your entire fax, including a fax cover letter in PDF format. Because email is not always secure, you don’t want anyone reading your fax cover letter message.

Scan and Send a Fax Message

Another great way to send faxes now digitally is through a scanning program. Many apps that work on iPhone or Android will scan a document or batches of documents, and from there, you can fax them seamlessly.

In some cases, you might need to sign up with a fax messaging service such as FaxFile. Some services allow you to fax for free (for a limited time), then you can buy credits to fax whenever you need it. You can purchase as much fax time or as little as you want.

Using a cover sheet template, you can type up your actual fax message along with your basic cover sheet in minutes, scan them, and send it.

Sample Fax Cover Sheet Template #1

Below is our sample fax cover sheet template that you can print, download, and use for free. Our free sample fax cover sheet template has all the fields you need to create your cover letter and fax quickly. We have separated the sender and recipient information into two columns and added some color for style. We have included both DOC and PDF formats for you. This professional fax cover sheet was modeled after a Microsoft Word fax sheet template with some changes.

Sample Fax Cover Sheet Template #2

Here is our second sample fax cover sheet template that you can download, print, or use however you like. We have included both an Excel and PDF fax sheet format so you can print the cover page or fill in the fax cover page and print the sheet yourself. Use this blank fax cover sheet as your starting point and go from there. This one is a basic fax cover sheet without a lot of fanfare. You can use it for a single page or many pages. It is versatile enough also to be a printable cover sheet.

Regardless of which fax cover sheet template you use, be sure to fill in all the standard fax cover sheet information, so your fax intended recipient knows who the fax sheet is from and what it is about. A fax cover page is just as crucial as the fax sheet document itself.

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Fax Cover Sheet

Browse free and editable fax cover pages . download, edit, save or print the templates as a doc  or  pdf  file..

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Simple Fax Cover Sheet PDF

Generic Fax Cover Sheet

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Basic Fax Cover Sheet

HIPAA Compliant Fax Cover Sheet

Formal Fax Cover Sheet

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Standard Basic Fax Cover Sheet

Department fax cover sheet

Urgent Attention Fax Cover Sheet

Top Secret Fax Cover Sheet

Medical Fax Cover Sheet

Urgent Fax Cover Sheet

Corporate Fax Cover Sheet

Simple Fax Cover Sheet

What is a fax cover sheet

A fax cover sheet, also known as a fax cover letter , is a document that is sent with a fax to provide additional information. It includes details about the recipient, the sender, and the contents of the fax.

The details provided usually include the sender’s name and contact information, the name and contact details of the recipient, the subject of the fax, the date, and other special instructions (eg. requests for reply).

If it’s important to keep the contents of the fax private, the fax cover sheet can also include a confidentiality note.

Some fax cover sheets also include a space for the sender to sign. The recipient can send back the signed fax sheet to indicate that they have received and reviewed the fax. Fax cover sheets are often used to provide a professional and organized summary of all important information associated with the fax being sent.

What does a fax cover sheet look like

Fax cover sheets can vary in appearance and layout, but generally, they include the following information:

• Sender’s name and contact information
• Recipient’s name and contact information
• The date the fax was sent
• The subject
• Notes or special instructions
• A confidentiality statement

Depending on the sender’s intent and preference, the fax cover can use a basic, professional, modern, or casual design and layout.

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Free Fax Cover Sheet Template [PDF, Word, Google Docs]- (FAQ)

Fax Cover Sheet : In the world of internet and e-mails, Fax still remains one of the most secure and confidential means of sending information across two remote locations. The secrecy and reliability of the Fax machines make it an ideal medium for information exchange between government bodies, a businessman and his client, between two business partners and much more. However, one must ensure that some etiquette is maintained in order to personalize the Fax message. One such norm is to send a fax cover letter before sending the actual Fax message.

What is a fax cover sheet?

A cover letter is an optional thing when it comes to sending Fax messages but it helps to send important pointers to the recipient of the message. If you want to understand it in a simple language, consider it to be the envelope of your Fax message which contains information like the information of the sender, information of the recipient, Fax number of the sender, contact number of the sender, and other crucial information such as whether the sender is expecting an urgent response or any other confidential data that only the two communicating parties can identify.

Fax Cover Sheet Sample with Example 

There are different types of cover letters that can be used by the sender of a Fax in order to authenticate his/her Fax message. The structure and format of this template differ with the purpose of sending the cover sheet and it also depends on the actual Fax message that will be sent to the receiver once he confirms the receipt of the delivered cover letter. You can find a cover letter in PDF and word formats easily on the internet. However, you need to identify the template and format which suits your interaction and message perfectly in order to avoid any unnecessary confusion afterward.

Types of Fax Cover Sheet

Here are some of the most common types of cover letters for fax:

1) Free Basic Fax Cover Sheet

A basic cover letter for fax is what most of individuals and businesses follow while sending a message. It contains the basic information of the sender and recipient along with the additional information that whether the information is urgent, has to be responded to, etc. It does not contain any other vital information apart from this.

It is not hard to prepare a basic cover letter and you can also refer to some sample cover letters that are readily available on many fax cover letter sites on the internet.

It also carries details such as e-mail, phone number, and Fax number of the sender. It is more suited for business and professional faxes and contains checkboxes to specify whether the fax is urgent, meant for review or whether the receiver has to quickly reply. Also, there is abundant space for the sender to type any message which usually is personal in nature.

2) Generic Fax Cover Sheet

A generic fax letter is a typical cover letter you send to the recipient as the first document via fax. This holds true for both the traditional fax mode i.e. via a machine or through the online fax unit.

A generic cover letter must carry the title of the cover letter and the same as the sender or organization. It might also carry a logo of the organization which is about to send the fax message. Also, it can be used for sending any type of personal, business, or professional message since it has a generic nature to it.

There are many samples of generic cover letters on the internet and you can download the PDF or word format of these samples either for your reference or for directly using it in your fax machine.

3) Personal Fax Cover Sheet

A personal fax letter also known as a personal information cover letter must be only used as a cover for personal fax messages. It is mandatory that it contains a message specifying that this message should be ignored or discarded if it appears on the wrong fax address. As a result, this document proves to be crucial for maintaining the secrecy or confidentiality of the message.

It also contains other relevant information such as date, name of the receiver followed by his/her fax number, name of the sender followed by his/her fax number and number of pages the fax message is likely to contain.

A note describing that the message should be ignored if it appears on an incorrect fax machine can be usually seen right at the bottom of the cover sheet. You can use it to convey a message to your lover, friend, relatives, or any other personal contact. Some people might confuse this cover sheet with private fax template which is commonly used for legal or business purposes and which contains a message of confidentiality at the bottom of the cover letter.

4) Professional Fax Cover Sheet

A professional cover letter is a professionally designed fax cover template which is perfect for the use of corporate offices and business professionals. It contains the name of the organization and company, phone number, e-mail address or other details of the recipient on the left side of the cover sheet and name of the sender, date, total number of pages, sender’s fax number or other details on the right side of the letter.

It also contains the logo of the Sender Company or organization on the topmost left corner of the cover sheet. However, using it with a standard globe sphere is also a norm which is followed by most of the business organizations and companies.

There isn’t much difference between a basic cover letter and a professional cover letter. However, unlike the basic one, a professional letter can be used to send only professional pointers and alerts to the receiver of the fax message. The professional fax letter can also be used between individuals of the same company but who belong to different departments or between two professionals such as a media person and a cameraman or between a graphic designer to a content manager, etc.

5) Confidential Fax Cover Sheet

A confidential cover letter is also a type of professional cover sheet. However, the main difference between the two is that a confidential cover letter must strictly include a message of confidentiality at the bottom of the letter which specifies that the message should be kept totally confidential whereas the professional cover letter need not include this message or comment.

It is usually preferred to send confidential messages to the recipient and the message should be kept confidential as the fax may contain secret information about a business, a health-related issue conveyed to the recipient which has to be kept confidential, legal information or anything which is confidential in nature.

Apart from that, all the other details like information of the sender and the recipient are similar like a professional cover letter. It also contains ‘Confidential’ word written in bold and capitals right before the message so that the recipient remembers it at all times. Also, the message of confidentiality serves to be a disclaimer of this cover sheet.

6) Standard Fax Cover Sheet

A standard fax cover page is usually used by organizations before transmitting multiple documents or messages to the concerned party or recipient. It contains the number of pages the message will contain which also includes the count of the cover page as page number 1.

Along with that, the contact details of the sender is included which can be used by the recipient for further communication or if the transmission of the message is not completed correctly. It also consists of the details of the recipient so that it gets delivered to the right person or organization.

Following a standard fax cover is a good idea especially when you want to draft a cover letter on your own. Moreover, you can customize the format of the standard fax cover as per your needs and requirements. A standard fax cover can be drafted in a personal or professional way according to the type and nature of the fax message.

7) Business Fax Cover Sheet

A business fax cover template is similar to the professional fax cover except for the fact that business fax covers are strictly used for business purposes whereas a professional fax letter can be used by professionals as well.

It is usually sent to communicate between two businesses and the documents or message faxed must hold a commercial value for both the parties i.e. the sender and the recipient. Apart from the details of the sender and the recipient, this cover sheet also reflects the nature of the message i.e. if it is urgent, to be reviewed or replied immediately, etc.

The format and structure of a business fax cover are very important for a business as it reflects their work culture and discipline. Therefore, the sender must ensure that the receiver is paid due respect and should also follow the complete etiquettes of the fax that reflects that the sender is a part of a responsible business or enterprise. You can find numerous samples of business fax covers on the internet but only a few of them are perfect and you must use your judgment and analytical skills to determine which one among them is perfect.

8) Medical Fax Cover Sheet

A medical fax cover or letter usually accompanies only the information and details which are related to the health and medicine of a particular individual. While drafting this cover sheet one must ensure that the cover letter complies with the Federal health laws as well.

Also, some of the medical information requires confidentiality which has to be maintained by the recipient as therefore sharing it with a wrong person could prove to be inconvenient on the part of the sender. A person can create his own medical fax letter in word or in PDF format by following and downloading some samples from the internet. Some of these samples are also editable which means that you can add additional details or you can also customize it according to your requirements.

Like other fax cover pages, this cover letter also contains information such as date and time of the fax, number of pages, fax number, phone number of the sender and any comments if necessary. The message of confidentiality can be used as a disclaimer at the bottom of the cover letter if the sender deems it necessary. Also, the details of the recipient are usually mentioned on the top of the cover sheet even before the date and body of the cover letter.

9) Mass-Health Fax Cover Sheet

The term ‘Mass-health’ refers to the health insurance that secure the health expenses of adults or children. A masshealth fax letter can be unique since the details included in it differ from the basic and standard fax cover details. For example, the mass-health fax cover will include the sender’s date of birth, his/her SSN (Social Security Number), and such other details that verify the authenticity of the sender.

Moreover, mass-health fax letters should always be included while sending your insurance related documents since they contain information like the documents included in the fax messages and other vital information. It also contains checkboxes that tell whether a particular document has to be provided or not. Here also, the message of confidentiality has to be inscribed as a disclaimer in the bottom and is usually written in bold letters.

Mass-health fax letters prove to be an important document both for the insurance companies and the insurance holders since they carry a lot of information about particular health insurance and its benefits.

10) Simple Fax Cover Sheet

A simple fax cover is a fairly basic and simple cover letter which does not carry a lot of information that some other fax cover might include. However, it is still an important piece of document as it contains information like the date on which the fax was sent, details of the sender, the fax number of the recipient and such other details.

It usually starts with the name of the recipient; his/her fax number and date on which the fax message is sent. After that, it follows with the name of the sender; her/his fax number and number of pages the message holds. After that, the sender might issue some useful pointers or alerts to the recipient.

A simple fax cover proves to be useful for people who are not used to drafting or sending fax letters. Therefore, they are able to follow different samples from the internet and from that, they are also able to draft their own fax cover.

A blank fax cover is usually a simple or any other type of fax cover in which you can enter the details with a pen or even pencil before faxing it to the recipient. A printable fax cover is a fax cover which you can use while sending several printed documents to an organization or office. Both these types of fax covers provide convenience to the user while sending personal, professional or business faxes. You can download the free printable fax letters from the internet and they prove to be beneficial especially for business purposes.

Now let us see them in detail:

11) Blank Fax cover Sheet Template

A blank cover is a basic structure of the fax cover which can be used by beginner or professional users of fax machines while sending a fax message. Sometimes, the user does not have the time to type and create his own PDF or doc version of the fax cover. At such times, he/she can make use of the blank cover sheet template which has all the necessary details that need to be present in a standard fax sheet. The details can be filled out with a pen or pencil by the user before faxing it to the recipient.

Let us see a sample of a blank cover template:

-- Blank Fax Cover Sheet Microsoft Word

--Blank Fax Cover Sheet PDF

--Blank Fax Cover Sheet Google Docs

12) Printable Fax Cover Sheets

Printable Fax Covers are ready to use fax letters that are available in different formats and samples on the internet. These fax covers can be medical fax letters, personal fax covers, professional fax covers or any other fax letters which can be downloaded or printed by the user as per their needs and requirements.

The printed covers can be filled with proper instructions and details before sending it to the recipient. Therefore, a sender has to be aware of the fax cover types and their purposes completely before printing or using them to their advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Gmail and other e-mail service providers have made communication far more easy and fast but still, there are many instances where a person has to send a fax message to his business partner, Health Insurance Company or for any other personal, professional or business purposes. Now, Gmail does not have an inbuilt tool or setup to send a fax but you can make use of third party online fax providers that are compatible with Gmail in order to send a fax from your Gmail account.

Let us see how to do that in steps:

Step 1: Register on an online fax provider like Nextiva, RingCentral, etc. Now, some online fax providers offer free thirty day trial period in which you can send unlimited faxes or a limited number of faxes on a daily basis. You might have to purchase tokens or credits once the free trial period gets over.

Step 2: Click on the ‘new message’ option by clicking on the ‘+’ or ‘compose button’ on the top left corner of your Gmail account.

Step 3: Now, you need to type the cover sheet in the body of the mail. You can make use of the standard cover letter templates that are easily available on the internet.

Step 4: After that, you can append the document or fax message in the form of an attachment. This can be either doc, PDF or any other form of attachment which is supported by Gmail. The documents can be attached using the ‘paper clip’ symbol that you can find on the right side of the ‘Send’ option of Gmail.

Step 5: Now, enter the fax number of the recipient and all the other details as area code, the domain of the e-fax account you are using, etc. so that your fax message goes to the right person. For example, if you are using an e-fax account and want to send a fax message to the fax machine 12345, then you need to use 12345@(efaxdomainname).com in order to send a fax to a particular person.

Step 6: You can click on the send button once all these details are entered and you are sure about your fax sheet.

Note: Do not expect your fax to be sent as immediately as your Gmail account sends an e-mail because the speed of the fax message also depends on the fax service provider you are utilizing.

If you have availed the services of an online fax service provider then you will receive a notification on your email whenever someone sends a fax message to you. You will also get the documents and message of the fax as a PDF or word attachment in the e-mail.

However, all of us do not use an e-fax service provider. Therefore, we are pretty much dependent on the fax machine we are using in order to send or receive fax messages. If the settings of your fax machine are right then you will automatically receive the hard copy of the message on your machine.

Usually, these fax messages are followed after a brief fax letter which includes information of the fax such as the fax number for which the message is intended, the contact number of the sender, number of pages the document has and much more. Therefore, you need to check all these details to ensure that you have received the fax from the right person and you can also use it to verify whether you have received the fax message completely by cross-checking the pages on the cover letter.

You also have to ensure that your fax machine is working, the power socket is plugged in correctly and there are sufficient ink and toner in the machine. Also, do not forget to cross-verify whether there are surplus numbers of pages in your fax machine. To avoid unnecessary faxes, you should share your fax number only with the individuals and companies from whom you are expecting important fax messages.

You will hear a low but audible sound from the fax machine whenever it receives a message. However, do not hurry to remove the printed material from the machine while it is still printing. Also, ensure that the fax was meant for you once you have received it completely.

Yes, it is possible to send and receive a fax message even without a fax machine. You can make use of the online fax service providers that provide fax services to their customers. This is not only economically feasible but also saves the time and effort you spend in order to maintain the working condition and efficiency of your fax machine.

These online fax service providers allow you to register via your e-mail account so that you get a notification on your e-mail box whenever someone faxes you. Not only that, the actual document and message of the fax can be downloaded as the fax content is sent as an attachment with your e-mail. This makes it very easy and convenient for you to receive a fax without a fax machine.

There are many online fax service providers in the market but not all of them are reliable. Services provided by reliable companies such as Cisco, AT&T, etc. should be preferred to maintain the secrecy and authenticity of the received faxes.

Today, sending fax online is much easier than it was before as there are numerous online fax service providers in the market. You can also send a fax from your computer if you are using a Windows operating system. However, for that, you will need to connect a fax machine with your computer with the help of a modem which is not a lucrative option for everyone.

You can directly send a fax using an online fax service provider that can be merged with your existing e-mail account. After registering for the online fax service you just need to draft a mail that will work as the cover sheet of your fax and after that, you can attach your fax message in the form of PDF, word or any other attachment.

Let us learn how to use a fax machine by adhering to the below steps:

Step 1: Turn your fax machine on. If the machine does not start, check whether the power cable is plugged in properly into to socket and also into a telephone jack.

Step 2: Note down the fax number of the recipient properly, Any mistake in writing down the fax number will either waste your effort or the fax might be directed towards a wrong person which can actually prove to be much more dreadful.

Step 3: Collect all the documents you wish to send and analyze them properly. Arrange them in the correct order.

Step 4: Draft a fax cover to include all the basic and crucial details of your fax. You can also fill out a fax coverby downloading free templates which are readily available on the internet.

Step 5: Place the documents on the feeder tray. Ensure that the first document is your cover sheet.

Step 6: Enter the fax number of the recipient.

Step 7: After confirming that the documents are correct, you can press the ‘Fax’ button to send the fax.

Find the right fax cover for your fax message and download it. It is usually available in PDF or word format. If the cover sheet is in PDF format then you will have to convert it into word format using an online PDF to word converter. After converting the cover sheet into a word file, you can fill the details such as your fax number, the recipient’s fax number, etc.

Follow a suitable template by checking the online samples and templates available on the internet. Now, open a word document and start drafting your sheet as per the reference cover letter. You can also convert the cover sheet into a PDF document once you have filled out all the details correctly.

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The team behind BestLetterTemplate.com understands the importance of effective communication in today's professional world and strive to provide you with the tools you need to make a lasting impression. Our team of experienced writers has created a wide range of templates for common letters, including recommendations, resignations, and cover letters. All of our templates are completely free to use and are designed to save you time and hassle. Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or a seasoned professional, we've got you covered.

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• Free Fax Cover Letter Template Examples (PDF, Word)

by faxcoversheet | Aug 28, 2023 | Blank | 0 comments

Fax cover letter comes in handy when it comes to sending important documents securely. Fax is still used as a mode of communication even though there are plenty of communication modes available.

If you have important or confidential documents to send for work, school, or personal matter then do check out the fax cover letter templates here and download a suitable one for your use.

There is a section on a cover sheet where messages, comments, or other important information can be added. Faxing is a part of government offices, medical sector, professional sector, and academic sector.

A fax cover letter is the very first thing that the recipient would see. The contact information of both sender & receiver, fax number, fax subject, etc is written on a cover letter.

Fax Cover Letter PDF Example

If you are wondering what’s written on a cover letter then please note that the date, number of fax pages, name & address of recipient, fax number, fax subject, a short messages is usually covered on a cover letter. For a business fax cover sheet, there is a section to include the name & logo of a company for branding purposes.

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Free Fax Cover Letter Template Word

Check out the editable fax cover sheet template below. You can download this letter in .doc word format. You can make the necessary changes as per your work need or requirement.

Download Word

Blank Fax Cover Letter Sample

A blank fax cover page has empty fields where information can be added by a sender. The sample of blank fax cover sheet is shared below.

How to Make a Fax Cover Sheet

Making a fax cover sheet is no rocket science, you need to have a basic knowledge of using MS Word to create a fax cover sheet. Creating a cover letter from scratch may consume some time and efforts. In order to save the time & efforts of our users, here we have shared free fax cover sheet samples and examples, download or print any of the cover sheet from here and use it for your work requirement.

Many people wonders why faxing is still relevant? Faxing is one of the oldest and secure mode of communication specially when it comes to send confidential information.

You can see the use of fax machines in government offices, medical offices, and many companies as well. If you are a part of the organization or business where faxing is done then make sure to know about the cover sheet or letter, how to make it, how to properly fill it, and what’s the purpose of using it.

Free fax cover pages are shared on this page that can be used for both personal and professional work. For business or professional work, make sure to add logo and name of a company, use the formal font & design only. For personal work, you can choose to add whatever font or design you like. A variety of cover letters are available here, download any of the template, and print as many copies as you want.

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Fax cover templates

Use customizable fax cover templates for seamless communication. make a fax cover sheet for your business using these templates in minutes..

Free fax cover page templates

If you or your business still use fax machines, it’s important that you have a professional fax cover sheet. Fax cover sheets will make communication a breeze. They can also protect the content of your fax if it contains sensitive information. Explore a variety of fax cover page templates that you can quickly and easily edit in Word. There are a variety of fax cover sheet templates available: choose from simple fax cover sheet templates or colorful fax cover sheet templates. You can customize each fax cover page to match your company branding. For example, you can add your company colors to the fax cover page for a professional look. These fax cover page templates include space for your logo, your company name, and contact information like your phone number and email. You can also enter the number of pages in your fax and the subject. Explore more templates that you can use for your business .

Free Fax Cover Sheet Template

Offices typically create a custom blank fax cover sheet and then print multiple copies to place by the fax machine. Because of this, we've designed our fax cover sheets with plenty of room for writing quick messages.

Printable Blank Fax Cover Sheet

The two PDF files below are similar except that the second one includes a place to write the company name. Note that in both it is clear that the # of pages includes the cover sheet as page 1. You can also download these for Microsoft Word.

Basic Fax Cover Sheet (.pdf)

Download for Word 2007+ (.docx)

Company Fax Cover Sheet (.pdf)

Fax Cover Sheet Template

Other versions.

License : Private Use (not for distribution or resale)

"No installation, no macros - just a simple spreadsheet" - by Jon Wittwer

Description

This free Fax Cover Sheet template for Excel provides a professional and concise format that you can use to create your own personal or company cover sheet.

Many offices choose to place multiple copies of a blank cover sheet right by the fax machine, so we've designed this template to have plenty of space to fill in the information by hand.

More Free Fax Cover Sheets

• Fax Covers by Microsoft - templates.office.com - A few free fax templates available from Microsoft's template gallery.
• Collection of Fax Cover Sheets - myfax.com - A very large collection of free fax cover sheets that you can browse and download for Microsoft Word. Many different styles and designs.

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Free Cover Letter Google Docs Templates

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Highlights: Closing arguments wrap in Trump hush money trial

Coverage on this live blog has ended. Follow the latest news here.

What to know about the hush money trial

• Prosecutors finished delivering their closing statements in the trial shortly before 8 p.m. Former President Donald Trump's lawyers presented their arguments this morning .
• Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass, who spoke for more than four hours, argued that Trump falsified business records to cover up what was essentially an illegal campaign contribution meant to help him get elected in 2016.
• Trump is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment to adult film actor Stormy Daniels to buy her silence about an alleged affair with Trump. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
• Court adjourned for the day at 8 p.m. and will resume at 10 a.m., when the judge will give instructions to the jury before it begins deliberations.

Judge lays out timeline for the rest of the week

Gary Grumbach

Zoë Richards

Tomorrow's trial proceedings are expected to get underway at 10 a.m., instead of the regular 9:30 a.m., with Judge Juan Merchan saying he expects jury instructions to last about an hour.

After that, the case will be in the hands of the jury.

Merchan said tomorrow's proceedings will conclude at 4:30 p.m., but he left the door open for the rest of the week, noting that if proceedings are needed on Thursday and Friday, the timing will be determined by how deliberations are progressing.

Trump makes no comments after leaving courtroom

Katherine Koretski

Trump did not make any comments as he left the Manhattan courtroom after the prosecution delivered closing arguments that went until just before 8 p.m.

Trump, who has often spoken outside the courtroom, instead raised his fist as he left.

Closing arguments are done; court to resume at 10 a.m. tomorrow

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass has finished his closing argument, which began shortly after 2 p.m.

Judge Juan Merchan told jurors they will start tomorrow at 10 a.m.

Merchan told jurors that jury instructions will take around an hour before deliberations begin. He said the plan is to go until 4:30 p.m. for the day.

Prosecutor gets fired up during end of closing argument

Phil Helsel

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass began accelerating and emphasizing his delivery to jurors during closing arguments with minutes to go before an 8 p.m. deadline.

Steinglass reiterated to the jurors that it is a crime to willfully create inaccurate tax forms and that Trump’s intent to defraud in this case is clear. He argued that why else would Stormy Daniels be paid in what he described as an elaborate scheme, instead of all at once.

Steinglass argued that that and other steps show Trump wanted the issue to be kept quiet until after the election.

“The name of the game was concealment,” he said.

Defense objects to prosecutor's remarks about Trump and Fifth Avenue

Jillian Frankel

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass urged the jury to hold Trump accountable, suggesting by way of analogy that he can’t shoot someone on Fifth Avenue during rush hour and get away with it.

Trump's defense team objected to the comment, which Judge Juan Merchan sustained.

Mixed level of visible engagement among jurors at this late hour

Laura Jarrett

At least one juror appears to be visibly engaged in prosecutor Joshua Steinglass’ presentation — offering an affirming smile.

Others, however, appear considerably less focused and can be seen twisting their hair and rubbing their faces.

The jury is approaching an 11-hour day at the courthouse.

Prosecutor talks about difference between reasonable doubt and certainty

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass told the jury that it does not need to evaluate each piece of evidence alone and in a vacuum but as part of a whole that he argues proves Trump’s guilt.

“You will see that the people have proven this case beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said.

During his remarks, the defense objected. Judge Juan Merchan sustained the objection.

“I’ll instruct them on the law and the evidence,” Merchan said.

Prosecutor launches into rapid-fire recap of Trump’s involvement in Daniels and McDougal stories

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is recapping all of the evidence intended to show Trump’s direct involvement in the settlements with Karen McDougal and Stormy Daniels, beginning with an August 2015 Trump Tower meeting.

A screen the prosecution displayed during closing arguments read “Mr. Trump involved every step of the way” as Steinglass went through a timeline of events.

Joshua Steinglass passes 4-hour mark in his closing arguments

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass has passed the four-hour mark since he began giving the prosecution’s closing argument in Trump’s trial.

Steinglass began giving the prosecution’s closing arguments at around 2:07 p.m., but there have been several breaks since then.

Today's trial proceedings to continue until 8 p.m., judge says

After he returned to the bench, Judge Juan Merchan indicated to the attorneys that the court will push forward until 8 p.m. but will need to wrap up after that.

That would make an 11-hour day for the jury.

Last recess of the day

Judge Juan Merchan announced at 6:52 p.m. what he said will be the last recess of the day.

It's expected to last just a few minutes.

Merchan earlier said that the plan was to go until at least 7 p.m. and “finish this out if we can.”

'A bold-faced lie': Prosecutor revisits Robert Costello's testimony

Given the hour, it was initially unclear why prosecutor Joshua Steinglass began revisiting the testimony of Robert Costello , a Trump ally and lawyer who has clashed with Michael Cohen.

But the prosecution's display of an email exchange between Costello and Cohen hinted that the DA's office aims to portray Trump’s attitude toward Cohen changing only after his former attorney's compliance was in doubt, not because of anything else Cohen did.

Recounting Costello's testimony, Steinglass argued that Costello's assertion that he was acting in Cohen’s best interest and that he didn’t care at all about the defendant’s interest "was a bold-faced lie.”

‘You guys good to go a little bit longer?’ prosecutor asks, as 7 p.m. draws near

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass asked jurors, “You guys good to go a little bit longer?” and said “Alright!” after a bench meeting to discuss scheduling at around 6:30 p.m.

Judge Juan Merchan earlier today said the plan was to go until at least 7 p.m. and “finish this out if we can.”

Prosecutor refers to 'devastating' testimony by Hope Hicks

Given the largely chronological order of the prosecution's closing arguments, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass could be nearing the end of his remarks.

He discussed what he called Hope Hicks’ “devastating” testimony earlier in the trial, adding that she burst into tears because she realized the impact of what she had told the court.

Defense attorney Todd Blanche objected to that characterization, but Judge Juan Merchan allowed it.

Prosecutor argues Trump wanted to be 'involved in everything'

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass mocked former Trump aide Madeleine Westerhout’s testimony in which she said Trump was often so busy that sometimes he absent-mindedly signed presidential proclamations.

Steinglass, who dismissed Westerhout's remarks as a narrative Trump’s team encouraged, said that overall she gave the opposite impression — that the former president remained very attentive to outlays of his personal expenses, and that his most frequent contacts included his former attorney Michael Cohen and a former top executive of his company, Allen Weisselberg. Westerhout's testimony also conveyed that Trump continued to be the sole signatory on his own accounts, even though he easily could have added other signatories, Steinglass argued.

Trump wanted to maintain control — and “he insists on signing his own checks," Steinglass said, adding that Trump boasted about his frugality and micromanagement in his books, which Steinglass read excerpts from.

Steinglass also rejected the defense's argument that Trump was too busy to be involved in certain financial transactions.

“He’s in charge of a company for 40 years. The defendant’s entire business philosophy was to be involved in everything,” Steinglass said.

Prosecutor: Cohen's time being cross-examined exceeded his legal work for Trump in 2017

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass said that Michael Cohen did very few hours of legal work for Trump on 2017, and that “these payments had nothing to do with the retainer agreement and nothing to do with services rendered in 2017.”

“Cohen spent more time being cross-examined in this trial than he did doing legal work for Donald Trump in 2017,” Steinglass said. He also told the jury that none of the Trump invoices went through the Trump Organization’s legal department because they weren’t for legal services rendered.

Steinglass also commented on how Cohen was paid pretty well, and had the title of personal attorney for the president.

“He was making way more money than any government job would ever pay, and don’t I know that,” Steinglass joked.

Some jurors cracked smiles and small laughs when Steinglass joked about government salaries compared to what Cohen was making.

Prosecutor says ‘these documents are so damning that you almost have to laugh’ at defense's argument

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass told the jury that “these documents are so damning that you almost have to laugh” at an argument presented by Trump’s defense.

Steinglass was referring to a comments by defense attorney Todd Blanche that the records were not false because, if they were false, they would have been destroyed.

Steinglass also argued that the 1099s forms on which Trump reported payments to Michael Cohen of $105,000 and $315,000 were another “unlawful means” through which the conspiracy was acted upon.

EXCLUSIVE: Elise Stefanik requests probe into Merchan's selection as judge

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., issued a complaint letter today to the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct and an inspector general for the New York State Unified Court System, requesting an investigation into Judge Juan Merchan’s selection to preside over Trump’s hush money case.

Stefanik pointed to Merchan’s role as presiding judge for a pair of other cases related to Trump and his allies, saying, “The probability of three specific criminal cases being assigned to the same justice is infinitesimally small.”

“One cannot help but suspect that the ‘random selection’ at work in the assignment of Acting Justice Merchan, a Democrat Party donor, to these cases involving prominent Republicans, is in fact not random at all,” Stefanik wrote. “The simple answer to why Acting Justice Merchan has been assigned to these cases would seem to be that whoever made the assignment intentionally selected Acting Justice Merchan to handle them to increase the chance that Donald Trump, the Trump Organization, and Steven Bannon would ultimately be convicted.”

The letter marks a continued effort by Trump allies to attack people involved with the case by filing complaints. The board overseeing the judges has made clear that Merchan didn’t need to recuse himself over issues that some of his critics have called a conflict of interest.

Trump posts on Truth Social during break in courtroom action

Vaughn Hillyard

During the court's roughly 20-minute break, Trump on his Truth Social platform disparaged the proceedings as "boring" and a " filibuster ."

Trump's Truth Social account has been active today with posts referring to his criminal trial and the closing arguments, which have continued as the prosecution continues its argument into this evening.

Judge says closing arguments to continue into the evening

Adam Edelman

Judge Juan Merchan announced a short courtroom break and said the plan is to go until at least 7 p.m. and "finish this out if we can."

“I was watching the jurors, they look pretty alert to me. I don’t think we’re losing anyone. So I think right now we’re going to try to finish this out if we can," he told the attorneys.

“Let’s see what we can do," Merchan continued, adding that they will revisit the timeline at 7 p.m.

Prosecutor argues Trump didn't sign confidentiality agreement for a reason

Kyla Guilfoil

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass tried to turn one of defense attorney Todd Blanche’s better arguments on its head.

Steinglass said that Trump didn’t sign the agreement because that was the point: The agreement was no less enforceable without his signature.

The timing of the payment on Oct. 27, 2016, Steinglass argued, further showed that Trump's primary concern was not his family but the election.

Prosecutor seems to say for first time there were 2 calls between Cohen and Weisselberg in late October 2016

Rebecca Shabad is in Washington, D.C.

Joshua Steinglass mentioned that in the phone records they have, prosecutors saw six calls between Michael Cohen and Allen Weisselberg over three years, two of which were in late October 2016, right before the Stormy Daniels deal was reached.

This appears to be the first time the calls have been mentioned in the case.

Steinglass also emphasized that Trump and Cohen spoke twice on the morning of Oct. 26, 2016, right before Cohen went to First Republic to submit paperwork to open his new account and to send the wire transfer to Keith Davidson on Daniels’ behalf.

Prosecutor walks through Michael Cohen's bank papers

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is now going through the false claims and omissions in former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen’s paperwork to First Republic to open an account in the name of his new LLC.

Those forms could serve as the “unlawful means” through which the alleged conspiracy to promote Trump’s election was acted on.

Prosecutor: Stormy Daniels' testimony shows Trump was 'not just words'

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is going at Trump now, referring to Story Daniels' testimony to argue that Trump is "not just words."

"Stormy Daniels was a walking, talking reminder that Trump was not just words" at a time when Trump was trying to distinguish between his words and the actions of both Clintons, Steinglass said.

He also noted that Daniels' story got little to no traction until the day after the "Access Hollywood" tape became national news, with phone traffic exploding among Keith Davidson, Dylan Howard, Michael Cohen and Trump.

Prosecutor describes ramifications of the 'Access Hollywood' tape

After a brief break, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass resumed his closing argument by describing the "Access Hollywood" tape, which multiple witnesses during the trial described as catastrophic for Trump's 2016 campaign.

Steinglass said the tape eclipsed coverage of a Category 4 hurricane, according to Hope Hicks; debate prep at Trump Tower was disrupted as campaign leadership discussed how to respond; and elected Republicans raced to disavow Trump's comments on the tape, with some withdrawing their endorsements.

Trump aide Madeleine Westerhout testified that senior Republican National Committee officials were even discussing dropping Trump from the 2016 ticket, Steinglass said.

“The video was vulgar, to say the least," he added.

Prosecution's closing arguments are one-third of the way done

Asked by Judge Juan Merchan "how much longer" the prosecution's closing arguments would take, Joshua Steinglass replied that there was still a lot to get through.

"We’re about a third of the way through," he said.

The prosecution's closing arguments began today shortly before 2:15 p.m.

Prosecutor says Cohen-Trump call shows effort to influence 2016 election

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass told the jurors that it's their decision what the tape between Michael Cohen and Trump from Sept. 6, 2016, said.

Steinglass said it showed Trump suggested paying in cash — whether it means no financing, lump sum, it doesn’t matter, he said. Steinglass said they were trying to take steps that would not get noticed.

“This tape unequivocally shows a presidential candidate actively engaging in a scheme to influence the election," Steinglass said.

Prosecutor defends Michael Cohen's phone records

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is making arguments to defend Michael Cohen's phone records after the defense questioned their integrity.

Steinglass said that Cohen had no idea the Manhattan district attorney's office would ask for phone records again in January of last year, and there would be no conceivable reason for him to delete evidence of a crime he’d already been convicted and served time for.

Prosecution using graphics to illustrate points during closing arguments

The graphics that the Manhattan district attorney's team is using during their summation are high-tech and modern.

In presenting them, prosecutors are isolating certain calls and using zoom functions to highlight them. The graphics offer a clean and accessible way for the attorneys to illustrate their points to the jury.

Prosecutor: Call between David Pecker and Trump makes it 'impossible' to claim Cohen acted independently

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass discussed a call between David Pecker and Trump in which Pecker apprised him that Michael Cohen had told Trump about Karen McDougal coming forward.

"This call makes it impossible for the defense to claim that Cohen was acting on his own here," Steinglass said.

He said the transaction was an unlawful corporate contribution to the Trump campaign — and not only did Trump know about it, Steinglass said, but he participated as well.

Prosecutor details Karen McDougal catch-and-kill scheme

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass is going through the Karen McDougal catch-and-kill scheme in minute detail — call by call, text by text and day by day.

Virtually no testimony is needed to illustrate the negotiations — and to the extent that testimony is used, it’s not from key witness and former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen. It's from David Pecker, former publisher of the National Enquirer.

Analysis: Steinglass pokes hole in defense's argument around National Enquirer

Steinglass makes a very good point about the Dino Sajuddin story and corresponding payment.

Sajuddin is the former Trump Tower doorman who claims Trump fathered a child out of wedlock, a claim the former president has denied.

Given that everyone believed Sajuddin's claim to be false, purchasing the story was not something David Pecker did because of his fiduciary duty to shareholders; there was no reason to do it other than to benefit the 2016 Trump campaign.

Steinglass calls 2015 meeting at Trump Tower a 'subversion of democracy'

Steinglass characterized a meeting at Trump Tower almost a decade ago as a “subversion of democracy.”

He said the entire purpose of the August 2015 meeting was to “pull the wool over [voters’] eyes” before they made their decisions.

He also pointed out that while NDAs are not unlawful, nor are contracts illegal, a contract to kill your wife is illegal, and therefore an NDA designed to prevent certain information from becoming public during a political campaign is also illegal.

Steinglass tells jurors to think of Cohen as a 'tour guide'

Daniel Arkin

Trump's lawyers repeatedly attempted to make Cohen's trustworthiness and motives a focal point of the trial — a strategy that Steinglass flat-out rejected in his summations. "This case is not about Michael Cohen," Steinglass told the jury. "This case is about Donald Trump."

Steinglass encouraged the jury to instead think of Cohen as a "tour guide" through the evidence introduced during the proceedings, including what the state has presented as falsified business records aimed at covering up an election law violation. Cohen, according to Steinglass, "provides context and color to the documents" — but he is not the trial's main character.

Steinglass begins touching on campaign finance violations

Steinglass is teasing the crux of the prosecution’s argument, saying, “Once money starts changing hands on behalf of the campaign, that’s election law — that’s federal election campaign finance violation.”

“We’ll get back to that,” he adds.

Prosecution argues there is a 'mountain of evidence' against Trump

Steinglass is fighting back against the defense's rhetoric that the only evidence in this case came from Michael Cohen's testimony.

The prosecutor told the jury that Judge Merchan will say Cohen is an accomplice because he participated in these crimes, but you cannot convict Trump on Cohen’s word alone — unless there is corroborating evidence.

Steinglass said that there is a mountain of evidence in the case, saying "it’s difficult to conceive of a case with more corroboration than this one.”

Steinglass looks to counter questions on details of Cohen's stories

Steinglass is now using an imaginary conversation to explain Cohen’s retelling of some of the stories or dates he’d recounted to the jury that Trump’s lawyers had questioned.

“These guys know each other well, they speak in code. A better explanation is that Cohen could have gotten the time and place of the call wrong. This is one date in many, he spoke to the defendant 20 times in the month of October,” Steinglass said.

“Let’s say you had dinner at a restaurant with an old friend and the friend says they were getting married. Later you find a receipt and think that was the night they told you they were getting married, but found out the friend was actually in California on that night. That does not mean that you are lying about the fact that you had dinner with the friend or about the fact that your friend told you they were getting married,” Steinglass said.

Steinglass: We didn't pick Cohen at the 'witness store'

Steinglass is forcefully pushing back on the Trump team's attempts to tarnish Cohen's character and motives, reminding the jury that the ex-fixer was once a valued member of the former president's inner circle: "We didn't choose Michael Cohen. We didn't pick him up at the witness store. Mr. Trump chose Mr. Cohen for the same qualities his attorneys now urge you to reject."

Cohen's top quality was loyalty to his former boss, Steinglass said. Cohen was "drawn to the defendant like a moth to a flame, and he wasn't the only one. David Pecker saw Mr. Trump as a mentor; Mr. Trump saw David Pecker as a useful tool."

On Trump attacks on Cohen: 'That is what some people might call chutzpah'

Steinglass is explaining that Cohen had lied at Trump’s direction and that Trump was now using those lies to harm Cohen’s credibility in the trial.

“The defense also tells you you should reject his testimony because he lied and took pleas in federal court. He has had some trouble accepting responsibility,” Steinglass said. “For bank fraud conviction and his tax law violation, he said he admitted to you that he did the things. He pleaded guilty.”

“He feels like he was treated unfairly and as a first offender he should have been able to pay a fine and back taxes and he believes the Trump Justice Department did him dirty. Whether that is true or not, he accepted responsibility and went to prison for it,” Steinglass added.

“You should consider all of this for his credibility” he continued. “The lies he told to Congress had to do with the Mueller investigation and the Russia probe, and what he lied about was the number of dealings the defendant had with Russia, and the only benefit was he stayed in the defendant’s good graces.”

“Those lies that he told are being used by the same defendant to undermine his credibility,” Steinglass said. 

“That is what some people might call chutzpah,” he added, using a Yiddish word meaning audacity.

Prosecution is careful to repeatedly call Trump 'the defendent'

There’s subtle but notable rhetorical move happening in this closing by the prosecution.

Steinglass is repeatedly referring to Trump as “the defendant” instead of “Mr. Trump” or “the former president.” This contrasts greatly from the defense's language, as Trump's lawyers almost always refer to him as "the president."

It will be important to watch for Steinglass to argue at some point that no one is above the law, even the former president of the United States -- something we’ve seen other state and federal prosecutors say about Trump over the last year.

Steinglass focuses on inconsistencies in defense argument

Steinglass zeroed in on an example of what the prosecution considers an inconsistency in the defense team's case. He told the jury that if the $420,000 payment for Cohen was for legal services, as the defense argued, Cohen could not have stolen $60,000 from the Trump Organization, as the defense also argued. It's either one or the other, the prosecutor argues — not both.

Steinglass: 'I'm not asking you to feel bad for Michael Cohen'

Steinglass is trying to reason with the jury, telling the jurors that they don't need to feel bad for Cohen, but they should understand where Cohen is coming from.

“I am not asking you to feel bad for Michael Cohen. He made his bed," Steinglass said.

“But you can hardly blame him that he’s making money for the one thing he has left," he added, referencing Cohen's knowledge of the inner workings of the Trump organization.

Steinglass admits that Daniels’ testimony was “messy” — but 'Stormy Daniels is the motive'

Steinglass is laying out how “the defense has gone to great lengths to shame Stormy Daniels, saying that she changed her story” but adds that “her false denials have been thoroughly discussed and explained.”

“She lived 2017 in pure silence, Michael Cohen came out and said sex never happened” and Daniels “felt compelled to set the record straight,” he said.

Steinglass said that “parts of her testimony” were “cringeworthy” and “uncomfortable.”

But details like “what the suite” at Harrah’s “looked like” and how the toiletry bag appeared “ring true.”

“They’re the kind of details you’d expect someone to remember,” Steinglass explained, adding that, “fortunately, she was not asked or did she volunteer specific details of the sexual act itself.”

“It certainly is true you don’t have to prove that sex took place — that is not an element of the crime, the defendant knew what happened and reinforces the incentive to buy her silence,” explained Steinglass.

“Her story is messy,” he said. “But that’s kind of the point. That’s the display the defendant didn’t want the American voter to see.”

“If her testimony were so irrelevant, why did they work so hard to discredit her?” he added. “In the simplest terms, Stormy Daniels is the motive.”

Steinglass undercuts defense argument that Trump was totally in the dark on Daniels payment

Steinglass displayed quotes from one of the state's exhibits: a phone call in which Cohen — well before he started cooperating with prosecutors — tells Davidson that Trump hates the fact that his team settled with Daniels.

The quotes undercut the defense team's insistence that Trump knew nothing about the hush money payments to Daniels.

Steinglass to jury: You don't need to believe Cohen to find there was a conspiracy

Steinglass defended the state's witnesses against the Trump team's accusations of lying, but he added that the jury does not necessarily need to believe every word of Cohen's testimony to find that there was a conspiracy to unlawfully influence the 2016 election.

"You don’t need Michael Cohen to prove that one bit," Steinglass said, referring to the state's accusation of a conspiracy.

He added that Hope Hicks, Rhona Graff, Madeleine Westerhout, Jeffrey McConney and Deborah Tarasoff were all witnesses who like Trump but confirmed Cohen's testimony.

Steinglass: 'You don't get to commit election fraud or falsify your business records'

Steinglass is appealing to the jury by explaining to them that it doesn't really matter why Trump broke the law, as long as they feel he did break the law. The argument appears to be a response to the claim by Blanche, during his own closing arguments, that Stormy Daniels had attempted to extort Trump.

"In the end it doesn’t really matter, because you don't get to commit election fraud or falsify your business records because you think you’ve been victimized," he said.

"In other words, extortion is not a defense for falsifying business records," he added.

"You've got to use your common sense, here," Steinglass continued. "Consider the utterly damning testimony of David Pecker."

Steinglass rebuts defense arguments about phone records

"The defense seems to be questioning our integrity,” Steinglass told the jury near the top of his summation.

But, he argued, it was the defense that didn't properly depict phone records.

The call summaries were made to help guide you, the prosecutor explained to the jury. The phone records are all in evidence and you can look through them at your leisure, he added.

It’s also an interesting accusation, Steinglass points out, given that the defense’s summary of calls between Cohen and Costello double-counts their calls. He also reminds them that not every phone call is accounted for in their phone records. Cohen had 11 phone numbers for Trump; they had records corresponding to two of them.

Prosecution kicks off closing arguments

The prosecution is now kicking off its closing arguments. Joshua Steinglass will give them.

Merchan told jury to disregard Blanche's 'prison' comment

Merchan, who chastised Blanche for imploring jurors not to send Trump to prison, told the jury that the lawyer's comment was "improper, and you must disregard it."

"If there is a verdict of guilty," the judge added, "it will be up to me to impose a sentence."

He went on to explain that a "prison sentence is not required in the event of a guilty verdict."

We are back

Merchan is at the bench. Trump is seated at the defense table.

Trump's family shows support outside the courthouse

Trump's sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump along with Eric's wife, Lara Trump, the co-chair of the Republican National Committee, slammed the proceedings in remarks to reporters outside the courthouse during the lunch break.

"Michael Cohen is the embodiment of reasonable doubt," Donald Jr. said. "This entire case hinges on someone who has quite literally lied to every single person and body he's ever been in front of in his life before."

Both he and Eric Trump echoed their father's often repeated characterization of the trial, calling it a "political witch hunt" and a "sham."

Eric went on to say that the district attorney's office is ignoring crimes across the city and using the trial to attack Trump.

"They're sitting there, they're laughing, they're giggling," Eric said. "This was their moment. This is how they embarrass Donald Trump."

Laura Trump added that the trial has been "banana republic-type stuff."

"This is a case about politics, pure and simple," she said.  

After walking away from the news conference, Donald Trump Jr. added that Democrats "talk about democracy but are laughing about it like it's a soundbite," and claimed they are “trying to scare anyone who has any kind of belief that doesn’t go 100% with what they believe.”

Merchan says he will give curative instructions after Blanche's 'prison' comment

Merchan appeared to chastise Blanche after the defense lawyer implored jurors not to send Trump to prison — an unlikely outcome in this case

"I think that statement was outrageous, Mr. Blanche," Merchan said after jurors were excused for their daily lunch break, later adding: "It's simply not allowed. Period. It’s hard for me to imagine how that was accidental in any way."

Merchan told the court that he plans to give jurors a curative instruction — in other words, general direction that is aimed at clearing up an erroneous statement.

Prosecutor slams Blanche's 'prison' comment

Joshua Steinglass, the prosecutor who is expected to deliver the state's closing arguments, blasted Blanche's comment to the jury about prison time as a "blatant and wholly inappropriate move" by the defense.

Steinglass asked Merchan to provide a curative instruction, a direction given by a judge to correct an erroneous statement.

Trump lawyer tells jurors that 'this isn't a referendum on your views of' Trump

Summer Concepcion

Toward the end of his closing arguments, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche told jurors that the verdict “isn’t a referendum on your views of” Trump, or “a referendum on the ballot box,” stressing the importance of basing their decision on evidence that emerged throughout the trial.

“If you focus just on the evidence you heard in this courtroom, this is a very very quick and easy not guilty verdict. Thank you,” he said.

‘You are gangsters!’: Robert De Niro clashes with Trump supporters in New York

Katherine Doyle

Amanda Terkel Politics Managing Editor

President Joe Biden’s campaign held a news conference outside the Manhattan courtroom where  Donald Trump is on trial  in his hush money case, with actor Robert De Niro and  two officers who defended the Capitol  from the Jan. 6 mob warning about the dangers of re-electing the former president.

“The Twin Towers fell just over here, just over there. This part of the city was like a ghost town, but we vowed we would not allow terrorists to change our way of life. ... I love this city. I don’t want to destroy it. Donald Trump wants to destroy not only the city, but the country, and eventually he can destroy the world,” De Niro said.

Afterward, on the way back to his car, De Niro mixed it up with some pro-Trump protesters, who yelled that he’s a “wannabe,” “paid sell-out” to the Democratic National Committee, “nobody” and a “little punk” whose “movies suck.”

“You’re not going to intimidate,” De Niro replied. “That’s what Trump does. ... We are going to fight back. We’re trying to be gentlemen in this world, the Democrats. You are gangsters. You are gangsters!”

Read the full story here.

Blanche finishes summation

Blanche finished his summation at 12:49 p.m. ET, about three hours after he began the closing arguments.

Blanche refers to jail time

Blanche told the jurors: "You cannot send someone to prison based on the words of Michael Cohen."

It's worth noting that it's unlikely the former president will be sentenced to prison in this case.

Blanche says Michael Cohen is the 'GLOAT'

Blanche says that Michael Cohen is the "greatest liar of all time."

“Michael Cohen is the GLOAT. He’s literally the greatest liar of all time," Blanche said, a play on the sports term GOAT "greatest of all time. “He has lied to every single branch of Congress.”

He added, “He has lied to the Department of Justice.”

Blanche outlines 10 reasons why he believes jury should have reasonable doubt

Blanche presented jurors with a list:

• The invoices. Blanche argues Cohen created the invoices, Trump had no intent to defraud, and prosecutors did not present evidence that Trump knew about them.
• Valentine's Day 2017 vouchers. Blanche argues there is no proof Trump ever saw the vouchers.
• No evidence of intent to defraud.
• No evidence to commit or conceal a crime. "There is no falsification of business records, period," Blanche argued.
• No evidence Trump was involved in illegal agreement to influence election.
• AMI would have run Sajudin's story. Dino Sajudin is the former Trump Tower doorman who tried to sell a story about Trump fathering a child out of wedlock.
• McDougal did not want her story published .
• Daniels' story was already public .
• Alleged manipulation of evidence .
• Cohen is the "embodiment of reasonable doubt." "He lied to you repeatedly," Blanche said. "He is biased and motivated to tell you a story that is not true."

Blanche insists there was no felony because even if there was a conspiracy, it wasn't through 'unlawful means'

Blanche is insisting that there can be no felony falsification of business records because even if there was a conspiracy to influence the election, it was not carried out through any “unlawful means.”

To support his “no unlawful means” argument, Blanche said there is no proof Trump ever knew, for example, about certain paperwork Michael Cohen submitted to his bank or paperwork prepared to transfer Karen McDougal’s life rights from AMI to Trump.

Trump’s knowledge, however, is not required. All that matters legally is that a member of the conspiracy undertook those “unlawful means.”

Trump lawyer plays audio of Cohen screaming on his podcast

After playing audio of Cohen excitedly talking about the prospect of Trump being convicted, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche then played two excerpts of Cohen screaming on his podcast in a tone virtually unrecognizable to anyone who has encountered him only here.

This was more effective than most moments today.

Blanche says Michael Cohen is the 'MVP of liars'

Blanche said that Michael Cohen has lied to his family, including his wife and kids, his banker, the Federal Election Commission, reporters, Congress, prosecutors, business associates and bosses.

"He's literally like the MVP of liars," Blanche said.

Blanche raises his voice in accusing Cohen of lying

Blanche began shouting as he again accused Cohen of lying under oath. He reminded jurors that Cohen testified that he called Trump on Oct. 24, 2016, to provide an update on the Daniels situation, "It was a lie!" he said, pointing out that the call was actually to Trump's bodyguard, Keith Schiller.

"That was a lie and he got caught red-handed,” Blanche added.

Blanche accuses the prosecution of using Stormy Daniels to inflame jury

Over objections by prosecutor Joshua Steinglass, Blanche is accusing the prosecution of calling Stormy Daniels as a witness at trial, but not calling her as a grand jury witness.

Blanche is arguing it was intended to inflame the jury’s emotions and to embarrass the former president.

The jury didn't appear to react to that statement.

Trump lawyer portrays Trump as the victim of the infamous 'Access Hollywood' tape

Jonathan Allen

Blanche may be the first person to portray Trump as the victim of the “Access Hollywood” tape .

Though Blanche says it was not “so catastrophic” as to motivate Trump to break the law — more precisely, that there’s “no evidence” that it was — he says this of the release of the video Oct. 7, 2016: “This was an extremely personal event for President Trump. Nobody wants their family to be subjected to that sort of thing.”

(The video had Trump on a hot mic discussing getting away with assaulting women because he was famous.)

Blanche accuses Daniels of 'extortion,' and the prosecution stays mum (for now)

Blanche just said of Daniels’ nondisclosure agreement: “This started out as an extortion and it ended up very well for Ms. Daniels, there’s no doubt about that.”

The prosecution has not objected to Blanche’s repeated use of the word “extortion,” which suggests a crime was committed. That could be a strategic choice, because what they say in refuting that characterization during their own summation could be more memorable and powerful than a sustained objection.

Blanche claims that threats against Stormy Daniels never happened

Blanche said that Stormy Daniels decided to go public with her story supposedly because she was trying to protect herself from threats in a parking lot that she received five years earlier.

Blanche said, however, that there are recordings that show that's not true. He said Michael Avenatti, Gina Rodriguez and Daniels were lying about these threats.

“They never happened," Blanche said. “The recording makes clear that Ms. Daniels lied to you.”

Blanche has resumed his summation

The morning break is over and Trump's defense team is continuing with its closing arguments.

Blanche said he expects about 30 to 40 more minutes.

Trial takes a break

The trial took a quick break starting at 11:35 a.m.

Blanche questions why no one in Trump campaign addressed Stormy Daniels issue in April 2016

Blanche questions why no one in the campaign did anything about Stormy Daniels in April 2016 when her manager reached out about it.

But Blanche's point ignores the impact that the leak of the "Access Hollywood" tape in October 2016 had on the campaign. Trump's campaign was beleaguered by accusations of sexism as a result of the tape, so Daniels' claim may have had more of an impact.

Fight appears to break out between pro-Trump supporters outside the courthouse

Elizabeth Maline

A fight appears to have broken out between pro-Trump supporters in Columbus Park across the street from the courthouse.

New York City Police Department officers were seen hopping over the fence into the park to respond to the clash.

Blanche tries to impress upon jury that Cohen's recording of Trump call is unreliable

Blanche wants the jury to believe that Michael Cohen's recording of the call with Trump is unreliable because it cuts off early.

But more than that, Blanche is trying to tell the jury that the transcript of what they have is unreliable because while the recording discussed AMI and Pecker, there is doubt that they are talking about Karen McDougal, whose name is never mentioned, or any payment of $150,000, which cannot be heard on the tape.

Blanche says they were “talking past each other,” and that Cohen’s invocation of “financing” shocked Trump, who had no idea what was going on, and that Cohen’s interpretation of “cash” to mean actual bills is a fiction designed to make the conversation sound more sinister.

Trump team responds outside courthouse immediately following Biden campaign

Moments after the Biden campaign finished its remarks outside the courthouse, Trump campaign members went to the microphone to speak.

Jason Miller, a senior adviser to the campaign, called the Biden campaign's decision to have Robert De Niro — whom he called a "washed-up actor" — speak today as a way to "try to change the subject" from Biden's "falling" poll numbers.

Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, called the Biden team's conference "a full-blown confession that this trial is a witch hunt."

"This is a disgrace. President Trump has been locked up in that courtroom for six weeks," Leavitt said. "But guess what, the American people see through this witch hunt, this scam, and that's why President Trump continues to rise in the polls."

Leavitt added that Biden is "weak" and "pathetic" and is using "elitist, out-of-touch Hollywood actors like Robert De Niro who have no idea the real problems that people in this city and across this country are facing." 

Blanche accuses Cohen of lying about Pecker lunch. Pecker didn't dispute it, though.

Blanche is continuing his effort to convince jurors that Cohen is a shameless liar. "Remember when Cohen told you he had lunch with Pecker?" Blanche told the jury. "Pecker said he was really frustrated that he was not getting paid for the McDougal story. Ladies and gentlemen, that lunch did not happen. Cohen made it up."

However, Blanche and Trump's other lawyers never entered any evidence backing up that claim — and Pecker during his testimony did not dispute that the lunch happened.

Blanche appears to want to have it both ways regarding David Pecker

Blanche appears to want it both ways regarding Pecker.

On one hand, he has characterized David Pecker as a “truth teller” and someone who, because of Pecker's immunity deal with the Manhattan DA, had no incentive to lie.

But Blanche also tells the jury that Pecker’s explanation that if the story from Trump Tower doorman Dino Sajuddin had been true, he would have published it — but only after the election — is not entirely credible because such a major story would have been published immediately.

Blanche argues the effort to silence Karen McDougal wasn't a 'catch and kill'

Blanche argued that the effort to silence Karen McDougal "is not a catch and kill either" because she didn't want her story published.

Blanche said McDougal wanted to kick-start her career, be on the cover of magazines and write articles. He said it wasn't McDougal's intention to publish her story.

"She didn't want her story published," he said.

Former Capitol police officers campaign for Biden outside courthouse

Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer, and Michael Fanone, a former D.C. Metropolitan Police officer, who defended the Capitol during the Jan. 6 attack, spoke in support of the Biden campaign outside of the courthouse today.

Fanone, who suffered a brain injury and a heart attack in the assault, recounted the attack adding that "if Jan. 6 didn't happen, we wouldn't be here right now, I'd still be at work."

Dunn went on to say that Trump is "the greatest threat to our democracy and to the safety of communities across the country today."

"Trump does whatever will get him votes and helps Donald Trump," he said.

Blanche mixes up details in 'catch and kill' cases

Reporting from Manhattan criminal court

Blanche has been walking through each of the stories that were caught and killed. But he is mixing up details. He mentioned, for example, that Karen McDougal’s business manager was Gina Rodriguez. But Rodriguez worked for Stormy Daniels, not McDougal.

Analysis: Blanche's assertions about the Enquirer don't really hold up to scrutiny

Blanche is arguing that the Enquirer’s reach was not wide enough to influence the election. But especially in today’s social media-fueled age, the idea that a story’s reach is limited to the publication’s own distribution is simply untrue. More significantly, however, the Enquirer’s influence here was in preventing certain stories from ever seeing the light of day.

Blanche pushes back on idea that the Enquirer could influence an election

Blanche, attempting to undercut one of the key planks of the prosecution's narrative, told the jury that it's absurd to believe that positive stories in the National Enquirer could affect the outcome of an American election.

"The idea that even sophisticated people like President Trump and David Pecker believed that positive stories in the National Enquirer could influence the 2016 election is preposterous," Blanche said, referring to the former publisher of the tabloid magazine. He went on to say that many of the articles published in the Enquirer were recycled from other outlets.

Pecker testified earlier in the trial that he purchased potentially damaging stories about Trump and then made sure they never saw the light of day — a practice known as "catch and kill." He also testified that his editorial team attempted to run more glowing stories about Trump in the lead-up to the 2016 election.

Robert De Niro condemns Trump in fiery remarks outside courthouse: 'He could destroy the world'

Actor Robert De Niro spoke to the press as a surrogate for the Biden campaign outside the courthouse, railing against Trump.

"I love this city. I don’t want to destroy it," De Niro, a native New Yorker, said.

"Donald Trump wants to destroy not only the city, but the country and eventually he could destroy the world," he continued.

De Niro, who has also appeared in ads for the Biden campaign, condemned Trump for the violence that occurred Jan. 6 at the Capitol, arguing that if Trump wins in November, "he will never leave."

At the end of De Niro's remarks, a Trump supporter in the crowd called the two former police officers standing with De Niro — both present at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 — "traitors."

The actor engaged in a back-and-forth with the man in the crowd, defending the officers, Harry Dunn and Michael Fanone.

"They stood there. They didn’t have to," De Niro said. "They stood there and fought for us. They fought for you, buddy. You’re able to stand right here."

"They are the true heroes. I’m honored to be with these two heroes today," De Niro continued.

Blanche says every campaign is a 'conspiracy to promote a candidate'

Blanche said that the prosecution wants the jury to believe that the entire scheme was to promote Trump's successful candidacy in 2016.

“Even if you find that’s true, that’s still not enough. It doesn’t matter — as I said to you in the opening statement — it doesn’t matter if there was a conspiracy to win the election," Blanche said. “Every campaign is a conspiracy to promote a candidate.”

Blanche hammers on the question of Trump's intent to defraud

Blanche asked the jury: "Where is the intent to defraud on the part of President Trump?" He then showed a slide labeled "No Intent to Defraud."

The exact language of the charges against Trump in this case accuse the former president of breaking various laws with the "intent to defraud and intent to commit another crime and aid and conceal the commission thereof."

Biden campaign arrives with Robert De Niro outside courthouse

Biden campaign members have arrived outside the courthouse with actor Robert De Niro and Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn, who was attacked in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Blanche again suggests Cohen was bitter

Blanche asked the jurors whether they "believe for a second that, after getting stiffed on his bonus in 2016, when he thought he worked so hard," Cohen would then "want to work for free" for Trump.

"Was that the man who testified," Blanche asked rhetorically, "or was that a lie?"

Cohen did indeed testify that he was upset after he did not receive a holiday season bonus after the 2016 presidential election, but he repeatedly rejected the defense team's suggestions that bitterness and vindictiveness drove him to cooperate with prosecutors.

Blanche then argued it was "absurd" that Trump would agree to pay Cohen $420,000 even though the former president owed him only $130,000.

Blanche suggests Trump, as president, was too busy to be part of 'scheme'

Blanche repeatedly refers to Trump being in the White House when the repayments were made. He was very busy, Blanche said. That he was somehow in on a “scheme” to conceal a repayment is “absurd,” he added

His argument also reminds the jury this is no normal defendant: It’s the former president of the United States.

It’s an interesting line to to walk: Trump is so careful about his finances that he would never overpay, but he was also so busy in the White House that he was sometimes careless and wouldn’t know what he was paying for.

Blanche says prosecutors asked jury to believe Michael Cohen

Trump lawyer Todd Blanche said, “What the people have done, what the government did for the last five weeks, at the end of the day, is ask you to believe the man who testified two weeks ago, Michael Cohen.”

Blanche rejects assertion that Trump had full knowledge

Blanche told jurors it was "a stretch" that Trump always "had full knowledge of what was happening" inside the Trump Organization and his other business enterprises.

"That is reasonable doubt, ladies and gentlemen," he said.

Trump lawyer says there's nothing 'sinister or criminal' about the word 'retainer'

Blanche commented on the fact that retainer was listed as the reason for the reimbursement checks from Trump to Cohen.

"There's nothing sinister or criminal about that word," Blanche said.

Blanche said it wasn't put there by Trump or Allen Weisselberg but by Trump Organization accounting employee Deb Tarasoff, who testified earlier in the trial.

What was missing from the chart put up on the screen

When Blanche put up a visual aid for the jurors showing invoices, vouchers and checks, the most glaringly noticeable line on any of the documents was the very familiar, thick-lettered signature of Donald Trump.

Blanche calls attention to the fact that Don Jr. and Eric Trump weren't called as witnesses

As Blanche is calling attention to the fact that Don Jr. and Eric Trump were not called as witnesses, they are sitting in the front row of the courtroom behind their dad.

“The burden is always on the government, they make decisions about who to call," Blanche said, adding, “They did not call Don or Eric.”

The jury did not look over at the Trump children.

Blanche tries to steer jury away from old Trump books

Blanche tells the jury to be wary if the prosecution starts reading from an old Trump book to help prove how involved the former president was in his company’s accounting system.

Those books were co-written by ghostwriters, Blanche says, implying the ghostwriters did the due diligence of figuring out the system in lieu of Trump’s personal knowledge.

Blanche tries to address toughest evidence before prosecution gets to it

Blanche is working hard to try to pre-empt certain arguments the jury is likely to hear from the prosecution after he sits down. Because he goes first and the prosecution will have the last word -- per New York law -- he can’t afford not to address the toughest evidence for his client. 

Blanche pushes back on hush money argument

Blanche appeared to suggest that Cohen received retainer payments not because of the hush money arrangement but because he was Trump's personal attorney.

"There’s a reason why in life usually the simplest answer is the right one, and that’s certainly the case here. That the story Mr. Cohen told you on that witness stand is not true.” 

Cohen was paid $35,000 a month by Trump to be his attorney, Blanche said.

Blanche planting the seeds of reasonable doubt

Blanche is doing two things simultaneously to plant seeds of reasonable doubt early in this closing argument — establish that the internal records at the heart of this case weren't falsified and that Michael Cohen is a liar.

Blanche argues Michael Cohen was working as Trump's personal lawyer

Trump attorney Todd Blanche argued that Michael Cohen was serving as Trump's personal attorney, which he said was not in dispute.

“He talked to every reporter that he could, pushing the fact that he was going to be the personal attorney to President Trump," Blanche said. “This was not a secret. Michael Cohen was President Trump’s personal attorney. Period.”

Biden's campaign set to hold press conference outside the courthouse

President Joe Biden's campaign is scheduled to hold a news conference outside the court this morning at 10:15 ET.

The news conference is set to include the campaign team and "special guests," although the news release didn't say who they would be.

Trump lawyer argues invoices were false and there was no intent to defraud

Trump lawyer Todd Blanche argued that the invoices weren't false and there was no intent to defraud — and that if the jurors are so convinced, they don't have to go further.

As a matter of law, Blanche is correct, but it is also the case that the requisite intent to defraud is defined as including the intent to commit or conceal another crime.

Put another way, if the jurors believe the documents are false, they do have to confront whether Trump intended to conceal the underlying alleged conspiracy.

Jury sees chart that won't be put into evidence

Blanche displayed a chart on the courtroom screen showing what it presented as various financial records, including Cohen's invoices (which were then turned into vouchers, and then turned into checks).

The chart will not be put into evidence, so the jury can't refer back to it — and the general public may never see it publicly produced.

Trump lawyer accuses Michael Cohen of lying for likely the first of many times today

It's 9:48 a.m. and Trump lawyer Todd Blanche just accused Michael Cohen of lying — the first of many times we're likely to hear that claim today.

Blanche: 'This is a paper case'

Blanche continues his sentiment that the testimony that the jury has heard thus far is not enough to convict Trump. Instead, Blanche argues the true evidence for this case lies in documents.

"This case is about documents, it’s a paper case," Blanche said.

Blanche went on to argue that the case is not about Stormy Daniels, but instead about the payments Trump made to Michael Cohen.

“Were those bookings done with an intent to defraud? That’s why you’re here. And the answer to that — to those questions is absolutely positively not," Blanche said.

"The bookings were accurate, and there was absolutely no intent to defraud. And beyond that, there was no conspiracy," he continued.

Blanche tries to undercut Cohen and Daniels testimony

Blanche tells the jury members that “they should want and expect more than the testimony of Michael Cohen. ... You should want and expect more than the word of a woman who claims something happened in 2006.”

He continues by saying they should want and expect more than the testimony of Keith Davidson, who was trying to extort Trump. Notably, the district attorney's office does not object to the characterization of what happened as attempted or actual extortion.

Trump lawyer reiterates to jury that his client is innocent

Trump attorney Todd Blanche told the jury that they, as a group of citizens, decide the facts and decide whether Trump is guilty or not guilty. He said he wanted to repeat what he told them five weeks ago.

“President Trump is innocent," Blanche said. "He did not commit any crimes, and the district attorney has not met their burden of proof. Period.”

Blanche starts his closing arguments

Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche began giving his closing arguments at about 9:40 a.m. ET. He said that he expects he'll need 2½ hours to deliver the end of the defense's case.

He briefly put up a PowerPoint presentation and then took it down.

Merchan to jurors: You are the judges of the facts

Merchan is giving jurors an overview of what they're going to hear today from lawyers on both sides of the case. He explained that the summations "provide each lawyer the opportunity to review the evidence and give you the conclusions that can be drawn."

"You are the finders of fact, and it is for you and for you alone to determine the facts from the evidence," the judge told the jury.

He reminded the jury that the "lawyers are not witnesses," adding that nothing they say in their summations constitutes "evidence."

"You and you alone are the judges of the facts in this case," Merchan said.

Judge tells prosecution and defense: Don't go into the law

Before the jury entered, Judge Merchan told both the prosecution and defense teams that they shouldn't explain the law to the jurors during summation.

"Please do not go into the law. Stay away from the law," he said. "That'll be my job. I'll take care of it."

District attorney staff members are watching from the overflow room

As proceedings begin today, more than eight secondary members of the prosecution team have come into the overflow room to watch the trial.

The members present appear to be senior leadership from the district attorney’s office, including First Assistant District Attorney Meg Reiss and former Executive Assistant District Attorney Peter Pope, who led the investigation of this case leading to the grand jury’s indictment.

The staff members are seated in the jury box in the overflow room -- an area we have not seen used before for seating.

How long will summations last?

Todd Blanche, Trump's lawyer, estimates he'll need around 2½ hours to deliver his closing argument. He goes first.

Joshua Steinglass, one of the prosecutors, says he'll need "somewhere in the vicinity of 4 to 4½ hours."

Trump says 'this is a dark day in America' before heading into courtroom for closing arguments

Shortly before heading into the courtroom for closing arguments, Trump repeated his claims that he was forced to attend courtroom proceedings in the hush money trial because of President Joe Biden, without providing evidence.

The presumptive Republican presidential nominee griped that the trial is “election hunting, election interfering” because it is an effort to go after Biden’s political opponent.

Trump again accused Judge Merchan of being “highly conflicted” and “corrupt” and read aloud quotes from legal analysts who support his assertions that the former president did not commit wrongdoing in the case.

Trump also complained about Merchan’s gag order that bars him from making disparaging comments against his family members and others involved in the case, saying that it’s an “unconstitutional thing” to impose on a presidential candidate.

“This is not a trial that should happen. It’s a very sad day. This is a dark day in America,” he said. “We have a rigged court case that should have never been brought, and it should have been brought in another jurisdiction.”

Jury instructions set in stone

Judge Merchan says that he provided the jury instructions to the defense and prosecution on Thursday afternoon and that neither side has commented on them. They are now final.

Merchan is on the stand and they're ready on go

The judge has taken his seat and proceedings are about to get underway.

The prosecution and defense in Trump’s criminal hush money trial will begin making their closing arguments to the jury today as the first criminal trial of a former president enters its final phase. NBC’s Laura Jarrett reports and Hallie Jackson provides analysis for "TODAY."

‘Phony’ checks and hush money payments: Breaking down Trump’s 34 charges in his New York criminal trial

JoElla Carman

Trump faces 34 felony counts in the New York hush money trial that is expected to potentially wrap up as early as this week.

Here's what to know about the charges.

Biden campaign preps for a Trump trial verdict: From the Politics Desk

Monica Alba

Natasha Korecki

Mike Memoli

President Joe Biden has largely steered clear of Trump’s legal woes. But with a verdict in the  hush money trial  coming as soon as this week, Biden’s campaign is exploring a shift to a new, more aggressive posture, according to two people familiar with the strategy. 

Regardless of the outcome, top Biden campaign officials plan to stress to voters that Trump will be on the ballot in the fall and that no potential court proceeding will change that fact.

A person familiar with the discussions summed it up this way: “Donald Trump’s legal troubles are not going to keep him out of the White House. Only one thing will do that: voting this November for Joe Biden.” 

Trump has departed for the courthouse

Brittany Kubicko

The former president has left Trump Tower for the courthouse downtown.

Rudy Giuliani's son argues with anti-Israel protester outside court

Former New York gubernatorial candidate Andrew Giuliani started a heated argument with a protester who was shouting antisemitic tropes outside the courthouse this morning.

Giuliani, a former Trump White House official and the son of former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, followed the demonstrator who was wearing a ski mask around a protest zone and yelled at the man about the Oct. 7 terrorist attack on Israel.

The protester carried a sign with numbers representing Gazans who have been killed in the ensuing conflict and voiced canards about Jews controlling the U.S. government and the entertainment industry.

Trump's guests in court today

Jake Traylor

Matt Korade

Several of Trump's children will be in court for closing arguments, including Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump and his wife, Lara Trump, who is the co-chair of the Republican National Committee, as well as Tiffany Trump, the former president's only daughter with his ex-wife Marla Maples, and her husband, Michael Boulos.

Also in attendance will be Trump's longtime friend Steve Witkoff, a real-estate investor who testified as a defense expert in Trump’s Manhattan civil fraud trial , Will Scharf, a lawyer for Trump who is running for attorney general in Missouri against Republican incumbent Andrew Bailey, and Deroy Murdock, a contributing editor for National Review Online.

Trump lawyer says she has 'zero confidence' Judge Merchan will issue jury instructions 'in an appropriate manner'

Trump legal spokesperson Alina Habba on Sunday expressed concerns about jury instructions in the hush money trial against the former president and the jurors not being sequestered over the holiday weekend.

“Generally, as an attorney, as an American who understands the law and how to apply to laws to facts, there are no facts that support this alleged crime,” Habba said during an interview on Fox News “Sunday Morning Futures.” “We’re not even sure what the crime is. So it’s a books and records issue.”

Habba echoed Trump’s claims that Merchan is “severely conflicted” without evidence, noting the judge’s gag order that bars Trump from issuing disparaging comments on his family members and others involved in the case. Trump has repeatedly accused Merchan of being “conflicted,” often citing his daughter’s work at a digital fundraising and advertising firm that often collaborates with Democratic politicians.

“This judge is the judge that determines the jury instructions. The jury instructions are the road map for non-attorneys and jurors to follow the law,” she said. “It’s going to be critical, and frankly, at this point, I have zero confidence in the fact that this person, who should not be sitting on the bench right now, will do the right thing and give jury instructions that are in an appropriate manner without any persuasion towards the prosecution.”

Habba then raised concerns about jurors not being sequestered over the holiday weekend, arguing that they could be swayed by family and friends who have certain opinions.

“They should have been sequestered because, in my opinion, these jurors are handling something that is completely unprecedented and unwarranted in America, and for them to be able to be out and about on a holiday weekend with friends and families who have opinions, who are watching the news TVs on the background at the pool party — I have serious concerns,” she said.

Trump blasts Merchan and District Attorney Alvin Bragg in Truth Social posts over the weekend

Alexandra Marquez is based in Washington, D.C.

Isabelle Schmeler

In a series of social media posts over the holiday weekend, Trump attacked Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the charges in this case against him, attacked Judge Juan Merchan and said the case was about a "legal expense" and a "bookkeeping error."

"I have a great case, but with a rigged and conflicted judge," Trump said in one post, before adding in another one, "The City of New York’s D.A., Alvin Bragg, is trying to prosecute a Federal case, which cannot be done, and where there is NO CRIME."

One post blasted the case for blowing a "legal expense" out of proportion, saying, "Let’s put the President in jail for 150 years because a LEGAL EXPENSE to a lawyer was called, by a bookkeeper."

Another post yesterday accused Merchan, without evidence, of being a "corrupt and conflicted" judge and claimed that Bragg is backed by liberal billionaire megadonor George Soros, who has been a target of antisemitic conspiracy theories .

Trump’s lawyers are preparing for the final stretch of the former president’s hush money trial in New York. NBC News’ Gabe Gutierrez reports on Trump’s busy weekend ahead of closing arguments in court.

Closing arguments set to begin in Trump’s criminal trial

Dareh Gregorian

Closing arguments will begin today in the People of the State of New York v. Donald J. Trump , as the first criminal trial of a former president enters its final phase.

After the prosecution and the defense deliver their concluding arguments, the judge will give instructions to the jury. Then, the 12 ordinary New Yorkers who sit on the jury will begin deliberations on whether or not the former president is guilty of the charges against him.

After 20 days in a courtroom, here's what you missed in the Trump hush money trial

Ahead of this week's closing arguments, catch up on what you missed over the last few weeks of the first criminal trial of a former president.

In sometimes explosive testimony, former Trump "fixer" Michael Cohen said that he did call Trump a "Cheeto-dusted" villain but admitted to past lies and theft upon questioning by Trump's attorneys.

Despite promising to testify, Trump did not ultimately take the stand and pushed back on media reports that he fell asleep multiple times during the trial. On his Truth Social account, the former president claimed he was simply resting his “beautiful blue eyes” while listening “intensely” to the proceedings.