Flatten a PDF
Flattening replaces interactive form fields with their visible appearances. It does not lock the PDF, prevent later editing, add password protection or securely redact information.
Choose “Everything” to also merge comments, stamps and annotations into the page — useful before printing or submitting a final copy.
How to use it
- Add your PDF. Usually a filled-in form.
- Choose what to flatten. Form fields only keeps text selectable. Everything converts each page to an image.
- Click Process. The PDF is flattened.
- Download. Check the flattened copy before sending or printing it. Keep the original for future form edits.
When to flatten
- Before submitting forms. Flattening can help preserve filled field appearances. Check every field in the output; some forms and fonts are not supported.
- Before printing. If a viewer omits field appearances or annotations when printing, review a flattened copy and print a test page.
- Keep an editable copy. Flattening can't be undone, so save the original too.
- Private by design. The tool processes your document in your browser without uploading its contents. Loading the website and Google verification can still make network requests; see the Privacy Policy for optional services.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it say there are no form fields?
Your PDF has no fillable fields. Choose “Everything” to flatten comments and annotations instead.
Can I unflatten a PDF?
No. Flattening is permanent, which is the point. Keep the original if you might need to edit it.
Will the file get bigger?
Output size varies. “Everything” mode may make the file larger because pages become images. Compare the download with your original.