Flatten PDF
Make form fields and annotations permanent
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How to Flatten a PDF
Upload PDF
Select or drag your PDF file into the upload area.
Flatten
Click flatten to make all form fields and annotations permanent.
Download
Download your flattened PDF file.
Why Flatten PDF Files?
Flattening converts interactive elements like form fields and annotations into static page content. The appearance stays the same, but the elements become permanent and non-editable.
When to Flatten
- Final Submissions: Lock form data before sending official documents.
- Archiving: Create permanent records of filled forms.
- Printing: Ensure forms print correctly on all printers.
- Sharing: Prevent recipients from modifying your form responses.
What Gets Flattened
Text fields, checkboxes, radio buttons, dropdown menus, digital signatures, comments, annotations, and stamps are all merged into the page content. The visual appearance is preserved exactly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does flattening a PDF mean?
Flattening merges form fields, annotations, and comments into the document content, making them permanent and non-editable while preserving their appearance.
Why should I flatten a PDF?
Flatten PDFs to prevent form data changes, reduce file size, ensure consistent appearance across PDF viewers, or prepare documents for printing and archiving.
Will flattening change how my PDF looks?
No, flattening preserves the visual appearance. Form values and annotations remain visible but become part of the page content.
Can I unflatten a PDF?
No, flattening is permanent. Form fields and annotations cannot be made editable again. Always keep a backup of the original.
Is flattening PDFs free?
Yes, our PDF flatten tool is completely free with no registration, watermarks, or hidden costs.
What gets flattened?
Form fields (text boxes, checkboxes, dropdowns), annotations, comments, stamps, and digital signatures are all merged into the page content.
Will flattening reduce file size?
Often yes. Flattening removes the editable layer data which can reduce file size, especially for PDFs with many form fields or annotations.
Should I flatten before sending to others?
Yes, flattening is recommended when sharing final documents to prevent accidental edits and ensure recipients see exactly what you intended.
Does flattening affect digital signatures?
Yes, digital signature fields are flattened into the document. The signature image remains visible but the cryptographic validation is lost.
Can I flatten specific elements only?
Currently, all form fields and annotations are flattened together. For selective control, consider using our Edit PDF tool instead.