How to Flatten Fillable PDF Files Without Quality Loss?
Summary: When you share fillable PDF files, some users may modify the information in the PDF form. It creates risks while sending the legal, financial, or official documents. Because PDF files are designed to store structured data like text, images, and signatures.
So, flattening a fillable PDF file converts that fields into static content using Adobe Acrobat or professional tools. This keeps your document information safe, prevents unwanted edits, maintains image quality & content formatting, also makes the PDF safe to share across all platforms.
What is a Flatten Fillable PDF File?
Flatten fillable PDF file means freezing all the important parts of a PDF, like text boxes, checkboxes, and signatures, non-editable content, and many more. Once a PDF is flattened, no one can change the information inside it. It is like “locking” the document after you have filled it. Technically, flattening removes the behind-the-scenes scripts and form fields, so the PDF becomes static but still looks the same.
Reasons to Flatten PDF File
- Flattening the PDF file ensures that all the information in the PDF is non-editable, so no one can change your important details.
- When you design the PDF files, they have many layers, and flattening them makes the file print clearly and look the same on any device.
- After flattening the PDF files, it works on all computers, tablets, and phones without problems.
- While applying the flattened form fields, it keeps all sensitive info safe from edits.
How to Flatten a PDF Manually
There are two easy ways to flatten a PDF manually. You can do it using Adobe Acrobat or with a web browser like Chrome.
Method 1: Using Adobe Acrobat
- Open Adobe Acrobat and click File to import your PDF File.
- Now, scroll down to the Tools Menu and select Print Production.
- On the right side, click on the Flattener Preview to use adjustments to the PDF files with advanced editing options.
- Turn on page numbering (optional) and click Apply.
- When a dialog box appears to click the “Yes” button.
Method 2: Using Chrome or Another Browser
- Find your PDF file, right-click on it.
- Choose Open With >> Google Chrome.
- Next, click on the “Print button” and apply the filters.
- Select “Destination” in “Save as PDF” format. Click “save” to move forward.
- Afterward, browse the location, store the output file, and click the save button.
Flatten a Fillable PDF Professionally Using an Advanced Tool
If you want to flatten a PDF without losing quality, BitRecover PDF Buddy Wizard is a fast and professional solution. It allows you to freeze PDF form fields, and is also compatible with working with multiple and bulk flatten fillable PDF files. With its simple, user-friendly interface, both technical and non-technical users can easily protect and manage their PDF files.
- Step-by-Step Guide for the Pro tool
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- Install and run the software.
- Now, upload the PDF file using the “Select Files” or “Select Folders” button.
- Once you add the file to the software panel, it will show the preview option to select the required file.
- Users can now select the “Destination Path” as per the preferred location.
- Then select the “Flatten Fillable PDF” format from the list.
- In the last click on “Start” to flatten the PDF file.
- Install and run the software.
Key Features of Advanced Professional Tools
- It is a dedicated option to flatten fillable PDF files and make the file non-editable for security purposes.
- This is a standalone tool that works without Adobe Acrobat, Reader, or any third-party Software.
- It allows its users to add either individual files or entire folders to process multiple PDF files together.
- After uploading the files, it allows you to preview and select only the required PDF files you want to organize or flatten.
- As it works entirely in offline mode, all your files are not uploaded to any other server, and it always keeps your data safe.
- You can also choose the destination path exactly where the processed PDF files should be saved on your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) How do I Know If my PDF is flattened or not?
Answer: To check whether the PDF file is flattened or not, click on the PDF form fields. If you have access to alter the information, then the PDF content is not yet locked, and the PDF is still editable. To ensure accurate results for the flatten PDF form fields, make use of the automated solution mentioned above for good.
Q) What does it mean to flatten a Fillable PDF Document?
Answer: Flattening a document means removing the layers or additional elements of your PDF file. It will prevent you from online scams. Also, by flattening layers in PDF files, end users won’t have any functionality to modify them.
Q) What are the best ways to flatten PDF without losing quality?
Answer: There are various solutions available to flatten PDF layers. Additionally, in the above article, we have described three different techniques to flatten PDF form fields that include:
- Expert Solution with 100% Accuracy & Safety
- Browser Print Option
- Adobe Acrobat Pro
Q) Can I Flatten a PDF in Acrobat Reader?
Answer: The answer is yes. Users can flatten PDF layers in Acrobat Reader by following these steps:
- Open PDF File >> Print >> Parameters >> Print Button.
Conlusion
In this blog, we shared step-by-step methods to flatten fillable PDF files, including manual options and a professional tool. Manual methods work but have some limitations, while professional software offers advanced features also preserves the files’ quality, layout, and readability across all devices for faster, safer results. Choose the solution that best fits your needs to securely protect and share your flatten fillable PDF File.