Flatten PDF
Remove interactive elements and forms
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What is PDF Flattening?
Flattening removes interactive elements (forms, scripts, annotations) and converts them to static content, improving security and compatibility.
Flatten Settings
Convert interactive PDF elements into static content. ConvertedPDF's flatten tool merges layers, converts form fields to text, and locks all interactive elements—creating a PDF that looks the same everywhere and can't be edited.
Flattening is essential for: finalizing forms, preparing documents for print, reducing file size, ensuring consistent display, and preventing further editing. The resulting PDF is simpler and more compatible across all viewers.
Why Use Our Flatten PDF Online for Free?
Who Uses This Tool?
Trusted by professionals across industries for their daily document needs
Form Finalization
Lock completed forms. Convert field data to text. Finalize submissions.
Print Preparation
Prepare PDFs for professional printing. Ensure WYSIWYG output. Prevent print surprises.
Document Archiving
Create static versions for long-term storage. Reduce future compatibility issues. Archive finalized documents.
Prevent Editing
Lock document content. Prevent form modifications. Create uneditable versions.
File Size Reduction
Reduce complexity and file size. Remove unused layers. Optimize documents.
Compatibility
Ensure display across all viewers. Remove viewer-dependent features. Universal compatibility.
How It Works
Get started in three simple steps
Upload PDF
Upload your PDF with layers, forms, or interactive elements.
Choose Options
Select what to flatten: layers, forms, annotations, all.
Download Flattened PDF
Download your static, flattened PDF document.
Powerful Features
Everything you need, nothing you don't
Layer Merging
Combine all layers into a single background.
Form Flattening
Convert form fields to static text.
Annotation Merge
Merge comments and annotations into content.
Transparency Handling
Properly flatten transparent elements.
Font Embedding
Ensure fonts are embedded in flattened output.
Selective Flattening
Choose which elements to flatten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions
What does flattening do?
Flattening converts interactive elements (forms, layers, annotations) into static content that can't be edited and displays consistently everywhere.
Can flattening be reversed?
No, flattening is permanent. Keep a copy of the original if you need to maintain interactivity.
Will form data be preserved?
Yes, filled form data becomes static text in the document—visible but no longer editable fields.
Does flattening reduce file size?
Often yes, by removing layer complexity and form field definitions. Results vary by document.
Is flattening needed for printing?
It ensures what you see is what prints. Some printers struggle with complex layers or transparency.
What about digital signatures?
Flattening may invalidate signatures. If signatures must remain valid, don't flatten signed documents.
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