Flatten PDF
Flatten PDF forms and annotations. Make content non-editable.
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PDF security
Choose the protection that matches the document
Security operations can add or remove access controls, sanitize data or flatten interactive content. Confirm that the result behaves as intended before sending it to another person or system.
Input
Output
Batch
Up to 10 files per run
Up to 10 files per run. Only use one run when files share the same operation.
Move into a related operation instead of re-finding the tool.
Download a destination-ready result and verify it before sharing.
Configured runtime limit applies.
Natural next steps
Continue with a related tool using the same file workflow.
Check the upload limit below
Review the result before sharing
Smart workflows
Finish the job, not just the file
Use the existing tool graph to continue into useful next steps. Bulk and output-packaging capabilities are surfaced automatically where the underlying tool supports them.
Continue with Sanitize Pdf
Bulk-readyFinish the job after Flatten Pdf with a relevant MAXScanner tool, without creating a duplicate converter page.
- Flatten Pdf
- Sanitize PdfWorkflow-ready
Best when Flatten Pdf is only the first step in your workflow.
Continue with Remove Annotations
Bulk-readyFinish the job after Flatten Pdf with a relevant MAXScanner tool, without creating a duplicate converter page.
- Flatten Pdf
- Remove AnnotationsWorkflow-ready
Best when Flatten Pdf is only the first step in your workflow.
About This Tool
Flatten PDF converts interactive elements like form fields and annotations into static content. The flattened PDF looks the same but can no longer be edited.
Perfect for finalizing filled forms, preserving annotations, or creating non-editable document versions.
All processing happens in your browser, ensuring your documents remain private.
How to Use
Upload Your PDF
Drag and drop your PDF with forms or annotations.
Select What to Flatten
Choose to flatten forms, annotations, or both.
Flatten and Download
Click Flatten to create the static PDF.
Use Cases
Finalize Forms
Lock filled form data to prevent changes.
Preserve Annotations
Make annotations permanent in the document.
Archive Documents
Create non-editable versions for archiving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is flattening reversible?+
No, flattening is permanent. Keep a backup of the original.
Will the appearance change?+
No, the document looks the same but is no longer interactive.
Does it reduce file size?+
Sometimes, as interactive elements are converted to simpler content.