Flatten Annotations
Permanently merge annotations and form fields into the page content.
Overview
The Flatten Annotations tool merges all annotations (comments, highlights, stamps, form field values) into the static page content of a PDF. Once flattened, annotations become part of the page image and can no longer be edited, moved, or deleted. This is essential for finalising documents, ensuring consistent appearance across viewers, and preventing modification of form data.
How to Use
- Navigate to Flatten Annotations from the Editing menu.
- Upload your file using drag-and-drop, Browse Files, or cloud storage (Dropbox / Google Drive).
- Click Flatten to process.
- Download the result when processing completes.
Options
All annotations and form fields in the document are flattened in a single operation. No additional configuration is required.
Tips & Notes
Always keep a copy of the original annotated PDF before flattening. Once flattened, annotations cannot be restored to their editable state.
Flattening form fields "burns in" the current field values. The fields are no longer interactive and cannot be filled in by recipients.
Related tools: Edit PDF · Flatten Transparencies · Export Form Data