# Flatten PDF > Bake form field values into the page and lock them. - Page: https://acepdfmd.com/tool/flatten-pdf/ - Updated: 2026-09-12 - Runs at: https://acepdfmd.com (Uploaded files are deleted within 60 minutes. No signup for light use.) - Also in 29 languages: https://acepdfmd.com//tool/flatten-pdf/ ## Flatten PDF form fields so answers cannot be edited You filled out a rental application or an intake form as an interactive PDF, and now you need to send it somewhere that treats fillable fields as unfinished, or you just do not want anyone changing the answers afterward. Flattening turns those live fields into permanent page content. The tool reads every value sitting in the form, including checkboxes and radio buttons, and stamps that text onto the page in the same position and size as the original field. Once done, it removes the interactive form structure entirely, so the boxes and dropdowns disappear along with the ability to click into them. What is left looks like the filled form always did, but it now behaves like any other page of text rather than a form. Simple files are handled in your browser; larger or more complex ones move to our servers over a secure connection and are deleted automatically within 60 minutes. Run this only once every field holds the value you want, since flattening is one way and the underlying form cannot be recovered from the result. - A field left blank stays blank rather than showing a placeholder mark. - A checked checkbox or radio button appears as a simple mark on the page. - If people still need to fill the form themselves, send the fillable version instead, and flatten your own copy separately. ## How to use the Flatten PDF tool 1. Add your PDF file: drag & drop or click to browse. 2. Click “Process Flatten PDF” and download your result. ## Common questions ### Is Flatten PDF free? Yes. Flatten PDF is free for light use with no signup needed. Anonymous visitors get 10 free tasks per day, and creating a free account makes daily use unlimited. A paid Pro plan removes ads and raises file-size limits for heavier work. ### Is my file safe? Yes. Simple files are processed directly in your browser and never leave your device. Larger or more complex files are sent over HTTPS, processed by self-hosted open-source software on our servers, and deleted within 60 minutes at the latest. ### What file formats does Flatten PDF accept? Flatten PDF accepts PDF files. Convert other formats to a supported one first; the related tools below can usually do it. ## Related tools - [PDF Form Filler](https://acepdfmd.com/tool/pdf-form-filler/): Fill in a PDF's form fields and save or flatten the result. - [Redact PDF](https://acepdfmd.com/tool/redact-pdf/): Permanently black out sensitive content. - [Sign PDF](https://acepdfmd.com/tool/sign-pdf/): Draw a signature and place it on your document. - [Protect PDF](https://acepdfmd.com/tool/protect/): Add a password to encrypt your PDF. - [PDF to PDF/A](https://acepdfmd.com/tool/pdf-to-pdfa/): Best-effort archival format conversion. Read the guide: [Is It Safe to Upload a PDF Online? A Privacy Guide](https://acepdfmd.com/guides/privacy-guide/)