PDF Flatten - Flatten Forms and Annotations Online

Flatten PDF forms, annotations, and layers into static content. Prevents editing, reduces file size. Free, private, browser-based tool.

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Security: Only process files from sources you trust. All processing happens locally in your browser.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Flattening converts interactive elements like form fields, annotations, and comments into static content embedded in the page. The appearance is preserved but elements can no longer be edited.

Flatten PDFs to prevent form data modification, reduce file size, ensure consistent appearance across viewers, prepare documents for archival, or fix display issues with complex PDFs.

Form fields (text boxes, checkboxes, dropdowns), annotations (highlights, notes, stamps), comments, and interactive layers are all merged into the page content.

No. Flattening is permanent. Interactive elements become part of the page image and cannot be restored. Keep your original file if you need to preserve editability.

This tool renders pages as images, so text becomes non-searchable. For searchable flattening, use professional PDF software that preserves text layers.

Often yes. Complex forms and annotations add overhead. After flattening, the simpler structure typically results in a smaller file.

No. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your documents never leave your device, ensuring complete privacy.

The document should look identical. All visible content, including form values and annotation marks, is preserved in the flattened output.

No. Encrypted PDFs must be unlocked first using the original password in compatible software.

Yes. After someone fills out a form, flattening prevents changes to their responses while preserving all entered data.

PDF Flatten - Flatten Forms and Annotations Online

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