Drop PDF here or click to upload
Flattening...
Files processed locally — never uploaded
How it works
Run this tool in three short steps.
01
Upload PDF
Drop a PDF with forms or annotations.
02
Auto-flatten
All interactive elements become static.
03
Download
Get the flattened PDF.
Questions
What people ask before they use this tool.
What does flattening a PDF do?
Flattening converts form fields, annotations, and comments into static content. The visual appearance is preserved but interactive elements become non-editable.
Why would I flatten a PDF?
To lock form data before sharing, reduce file size, ensure consistent appearance across viewers, or prepare for archival.
Are my PDFs uploaded?
No. pdf-lib.js runs entirely in your browser.
Does it preserve visual appearance?
Yes. The flattened PDF looks identical to the original — only interactivity is removed.
Can I unflatten a PDF?
No. Flattening is permanent. Keep the original if you need to edit form fields later.
Does it flatten annotations?
Yes. Comments, highlights, and markup become part of the page content.
Does it reduce file size?
Sometimes. Removing form field metadata can reduce size, but the effect varies.
Is there a page limit?
It works well for typical browser-based PDF jobs. Very large files depend on your device memory and browser performance.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes.
What about digital signatures?
Flattening removes interactive signature fields. The visual signature is preserved as static content.
Can I flatten only specific fields?
Currently all fields are flattened. Selective flattening is not supported.
Does it work with all PDF versions?
Yes. Compatible with all standard PDF files.
How does this compare to Acrobat?
Acrobat offers more control over which fields and annotations to flatten. This tool fits a narrower first task: open the file in your browser, flatten everything, and download the result directly. For form filling, use <a href="/fill-pdf-form">Fill Form</a> first.
Can I start flattening a PDF right away?
Yes. Upload the file, let the page flatten the interactive elements, and download the static version from the same workflow.
Can I pay with crypto?
PDF tools are free. See all <a href="/pdf-tools">PDF Tools</a>. AI writing tools accept crypto from $9.99/month.
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Flatten PDF form fields and annotations into static content using pdf-lib.js in your browser. It is a direct PDF workflow for locking a document before sharing, archiving, or handing it off.