Flatten PDF Forms & Annotations Online
Lock in form field values and annotations so your PDF can no longer be edited. Free, fast, and entirely in your browser.
Drag & drop your PDF here, or click to browse
Maximum file size: 100 MB
About Flatten PDF
Flatten PDF converts interactive form fields and annotations in a PDF into permanent, non-editable content. Once flattened, filled-in values are baked into the page and can no longer be changed, making the file safe to share, archive, or print. Everything happens locally in your browser — your PDF is never uploaded to a server.
Features:
- Detects fillable form fields and annotations before you flatten
- Flattens field values into permanent, non-editable page content
- Optionally strips remaining annotations like comments and stamps
- 100% client-side — your PDF never leaves your device
How to Flatten a PDF
- Upload the PDF you want to flatten
- Review the detected form fields and annotations
- Choose whether to also remove remaining annotations
- Click Flatten PDF and download the finished file
Frequently Asked Questions
What does flattening a PDF do?
Flattening converts interactive form fields into fixed page content. The values you entered become part of the page's image or text layer, so they display exactly the same way in every PDF viewer and can no longer be edited or interacted with.
Will flattening change how my PDF looks?
No. Flattening preserves the visual appearance of your filled-in fields — checkboxes, text, and selections all look the same. The only difference is that they're no longer interactive form controls.
Does this tool remove all annotations automatically?
Form field flattening always happens. Removing non-form annotations (like sticky notes, highlights, or stamps) is optional — check the box before flattening if you want them stripped out too.
Can flattening be reversed?
No. Once a PDF is flattened and saved, the original interactive fields are gone. Keep a copy of your original file if you might need to edit the form again later.
Is my PDF uploaded anywhere?
No. Flattening happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript — your file is never sent to a server, so it stays completely private.
Why would a signed PDF need flattening?
Digitally signed or notarized forms are often flattened afterward so the final values can't be altered without invalidating the signature, and so the document renders identically for every recipient regardless of their PDF viewer.
Your Privacy Matters
This tool processes your PDF entirely in your browser. Your file is never uploaded to any server, ensuring complete privacy and security.