Attachment Issues

How to Fix PDF Not Attached to Email After Creation

Ayan MasoodAyan Masood Nov 5, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is trying to automatically email a newly created PDF, but the email draft opens without the PDF file attached.

Fix PDF Not Attached to Email After Creation
Product
PDF Editor
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Generating a PDF and immediately attempting to send it via the software's built-in email sharing function.
Observed behavior
The default email client opens a new message window, but the PDF attachment is missing, or only a file link is inserted instead of the actual document.
Before you start

Ensure your default email client (such as Outlook or Mail) is properly configured on your computer and fully updated before attempting to share documents directly from a PDF reader.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Email Sharing and Link Settings

Check your PDF application's sharing settings to ensure it is configured to send a physical file attachment rather than a cloud link.

Many modern PDF editors default to uploading documents to their cloud service and generating a sharing link instead of attaching the physical file. Changing the sharing preference ensures the actual PDF is added to your email.

1
Open sharing preferences

Click on the 'Share' or 'Email' icon in your PDF application.

2
Select 'Send as Attachment'

Look for an option labeled 'Send as Attachment' or toggle off the 'Send as Link' feature.

3
Proceed to email

Click 'Continue' to open your default email client. The physical PDF file should now be visibly attached to the new message.

Verify Email Sharing and Link Settings
Seamless PDF Sharing

Easily Create and Email PDFs with WPS Office

Avoid attachment glitches by using WPS Office to generate and instantly share your PDF documents. WPS integrates smoothly with popular email clients to ensure your files are attached perfectly every time.

  1. 1. Open WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the document you wish to convert or the PDF you want to share.
  2. 2. Access the Share menu: Click the 'Share' button located in the top right corner of the workspace.
  3. 3. Select 'Email': Choose the 'Email' option from the sharing methods provided.
  4. 4. Send your document: Your default email client will automatically open with the PDF physically attached. Enter the recipient's address and click send.
One-click sharing to easily send PDFs as physical attachmentsHigh compatibility with Adobe PDF formats and featuresLightweight software that communicates seamlessly with system email clientsFree to download with powerful built-in PDF editing tools
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my PDF sending as a link instead of an attachment?

Many PDF programs default to cloud sharing to save email space. You must manually select 'Send as Attachment' or disable the cloud link feature in the sharing dialog box to attach the actual file.

How do I fix the issue if my default email client doesn't open?

This usually happens if your operating system does not have a designated default email app. Go to your system's 'Default Apps' settings, locate the 'Email' section, and select your preferred application (like Outlook or Windows Mail).

Is there a file size limit preventing my PDF from attaching?

Yes, most email providers limit attachments to 20MB or 25MB. If your PDF is larger than this limit, the email client may refuse to attach it. You can compress the PDF file to reduce its size before emailing it.