Flatten PDF, permanently burn in form fields
Permanently burn filled form fields into the document so nothing can be changed. 100% in your browser, no upload, no sign-up.
Why flatten a PDF?
Fillable PDF forms are handy, until the document gets sent. Anyone receiving it can still change the entries in the fields. Flattening burns all filled form fields into the page content itself. The entries stay visible exactly as filled in, but can no longer be clicked or edited.
Typical cases: completed applications, quotes with entered prices, contracts before sending, or forms headed for long-term archiving. At PDF Monster, flattening runs entirely in your browser, the file is never uploaded and never leaves your device.
How it works, flatten a PDF in 3 steps
Choose a PDF
Drag your PDF with filled form fields into the area above or pick it via the button. The file stays on your device.
Check fields and burn them in
The tool shows how many form fields were found. One click on “Burn in” turns all entries into fixed page content.
Download the flattened PDF
Download the flattened copy. The original stays untouched in case you need the fields again later.
Frequently asked questions about flattening PDFs
What does “flatten a PDF” mean?
Flattening burns filled form fields into the page content. The entries remain visible exactly as filled in, but can no longer be changed or clicked, the document behaves like a normal, static PDF.
When should I flatten a PDF?
Whenever a completed form is sent or archived and nobody should be able to change the entries afterwards, for example quotes, contracts, applications or registration forms.
Are my files uploaded?
No. Flattening runs entirely in your browser. The PDF never leaves your device.
What if the PDF has no form fields?
Then there is nothing to burn in, you get a notice and can still download an unchanged copy.
Is flattening reversible?
No. After flattening, the fields are part of the page content. Keep the original if you may need editable fields later.