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PdfDady

Flatten a PDF

Send a filled-in form that can't be changed, or fix comments that show differently in different apps. Form fields and annotations become ordinary page content, exactly as they look now.

1. Add a PDF

2. Flatten

Add a PDF to flatten.

Flattening isn't security or redaction: the text stays in the file and can still be selected. Keep an unflattened copy if you may need to edit it later.

How to flatten a PDF

  1. Add your PDF

    Choose one PDF, up to 100 MB.

  2. Choose what to flatten

    Form fields, comments and annotations, or both.

  3. Check the result

    You see how many fields and annotations were flattened.

  4. Download

    Save flattened.pdf. Keep the original if you may need to edit it.

What you can do with this tool

  • Filled values kept

    Each field keeps the look it has now; it just can't be edited. If one can't be drawn, you're told.

  • Comments and stamps too

    Highlights, notes, drawings and stamps become part of the page.

  • Links keep working

    Hyperlinks aren't flattened.

  • Text stays text

    Pages aren't turned into images.

  • Stays on your device

    Your PDF is not uploaded. Free, no sign-up.

Limits and what you get

InputOne PDF, up to 100 MB
FlattensForm fields, comments, highlights, stamps, drawings
KeptLinks; hidden annotations are removed
TextStill selectableFlattening isn't redaction
Outputflattened.pdf

Frequently asked questions

What does flattening a PDF do?

It turns form fields and annotations into ordinary page content: they look the same but can no longer be edited, moved or deleted.

Can I undo it?

Not in the flattened file. Keep your original if you might need to edit it again.

Will my filled-in values stay?

Yes, in almost all cases: each field is drawn as it currently appears, and fields saved without an appearance get one generated first. If a field still can't be drawn (rare, for example some non-Latin text), you're told how many.

Can I flatten only the form fields?

Yes. Untick Comments and annotations.

Why does it say there's nothing to flatten?

The PDF has no form fields or annotations of the kinds you chose. Text you typed with an editor is already page content.

Is flattening the same as protecting a PDF?

No. Anyone can still copy the text. To require a password, use Protect PDF; to remove text, use Redact PDF.

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