Flatten PDF

Flattening takes a fillable PDF form, one with text boxes, checkboxes, or signature fields, and converts the filled-in values into permanent page content, the same as regular text or images on the page. After flattening, the fields no longer work as editable form controls, so what you see is what stays. This matters for a job application form where you do not want a reviewer to accidentally change your answers, a rental application with your entered details, or a signed waiver where checkboxes and a typed name should not be adjustable afterward. Tax preparers flatten completed tax forms before sending copies to clients, and HR teams flatten onboarding paperwork before archiving it, so the record matches exactly what was submitted.

Flatten forms before sending a final copy, archiving records, or sharing a filled form with someone who should not edit the fields.

Not in the downloaded copy. Keep your original PDF if you need to edit the form again later.

No. Flattening keeps the visual appearance of filled fields exactly as shown on screen. It only removes the ability to click into and edit them; text size, position, and checkbox marks stay the same.

This tool focuses on pdf-lib form fields. Some comments or other annotations may remain as they were.

No. The file is read, flattened, and saved locally in your browser.

One PDF up to 25 MB per job.