On-device processing and file control
Files are not uploaded to CookPDF servers
The main operation runs in the browser on your device.
Keep the original
It's best to save the original before changing the password or flattening the document.
Check the resulting file
Open the file to test it, and check the content, access permissions, and signatures before use.
How to flatten a pdf
Follow three steps, keep the original, and check the result.
Choose a PDF file
Open a filled or annotated document you need to fix, and keep the original.
Flatten the supported layers
Turn suitable form fields and annotations into content displayed on the page.
Check the result
Review each page, its readability and signature status before downloading.
Highlights
Capabilities suited to the right purpose of protecting or finishing a PDF.
Fix the filled content
Reduce the risk of form fields being changed separately after sending.
More stable display
Help some PDF readers display form content and annotations more consistently.
Prepare a release copy
Create a result copy to share while keeping an editable original.
Processed on your device
The main operations run in your browser on your device.
Use cases
Common situations when handling access rights and the interaction layer.
Finalize a filled form
Fix the content before sending it to the recipient.
Release an annotated copy
Merge supported annotations into the visible part of the page.
Reduce display errors
Create a copy that is easier to view on PDF readers that handle interactive fields differently.
Ready to flatten your pdf?
Choose a PDF file you have the right to use to get started.
Flatten forms and annotations in a PDF online
Fix form fields, visible signatures and supported annotations into the page content to limit editing each object individually.
When should you use it?
- Finalize a filled form: Fix the content before sending it to the recipient.
- Release an annotated copy: Merge supported annotations into the visible part of the page.
- Reduce display errors: Create a copy that is easier to view on PDF readers that handle interactive fields differently.
Safe workflow
Only process documents you are entitled to use, keep the original, and check the result file in a PDF reader before sending or storing it. For documents with a digital signature, verify the signature status again after making changes.
Limitations to know
Flattening can make form fields and annotations no longer individually editable. The tool does not guarantee removal of all hidden data, content layers or metadata, and does not turn a visible signature into a digital signature.
Data and session
The main operations run on your device and files are not uploaded to CookPDF servers. Your browser may store a local cache to restore the session; you can clear the session in the interface or clear website data in your browser settings.
Frequently asked questions
Information about passwords, usage rights, limitations, and data.
What does flattening a PDF do?
Can I edit again after flattening?
Does flattening remove all hidden data?
Does flattening affect a digital signature?
Ready to flatten your pdf?
Choose a PDF file you have the right to use to get started.