Flatten PDF

Makes form entries, stamps and comments a fixed part of the pages – for example before sending a filled-in form – so they can no longer be edited.

Processed locally: your files are handled entirely in this browser and are never uploaded to a server.

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How it works

  1. Choose a PDF file.
  2. Choose whether to flatten form fields and comments, or to flatten everything into images.
  3. Click “Flatten PDF” and download the result.

Notes and limitations

  • The standard method keeps text and graphics as vectors and only burns in form fields and comments that have a visible appearance. Links remain.
  • “Everything as images” captures all visible content, including layers, but makes text unselectable and the file usually larger.
  • Flattening does not encrypt the file: anyone can still copy the content. Digital signatures become invalid.

Frequently asked questions

Does flattening protect my PDF?

It prevents simple editing of fields, but it is not a security measure. Use “Protect PDF with a password” if the content must stay confidential.