How to Fix Unable to Send Message Error When Emailing a PDF
Question details
Users need to resolve an issue where the desktop application fails to email a PDF document, resulting in an error prompt.

- Product
- Adobe Acrobat / Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to send a PDF as an email attachment using the built-in email option within the PDF viewer desktop application.
- Observed behavior
- The application blocks the action and displays an 'Unable to Send Message' error, preventing the email from being dispatched.
Verify that your computer has a stable internet connection and that your system's default email client (such as Outlook or Windows Mail) is properly logged in and configured.
Test with a Different PDF File
Determine if the error is specific to a corrupted or restricted PDF file.
Launch Adobe Acrobat or Reader and open a completely different PDF file from your computer.
Click the Email icon in the top toolbar to try sending this alternative PDF. If it sends successfully, your original file may be corrupted, secured, or too large.

Update Adobe Acrobat or Reader
Ensure you are using the latest software version to patch known bugs related to email integrations.
Temporarily Disable Internet Security Software
Network connection errors can occur if an aggressive antivirus or firewall blocks the PDF application's outgoing mail requests.
Easily Edit and Share PDFs Directly with WPS Office
Avoid frustrating network errors and complicated settings when sharing files. WPS Office features a robust built-in PDF reader and editor that allows you to seamlessly attach and email PDF documents directly from your workspace without triggering third-party application errors.
- 1. Open your PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF file you wish to send.
- 2. Access the Share feature: Click the 'Share' button located at the top right corner of the interface, or navigate to the 'Menu' tab and select 'Share'.
- 3. Select the Email option: Choose the 'Email' icon from the sharing methods. WPS Office will instantly open your default email client and attach the PDF, ready to send.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF application say it is 'Unable to Send Message'?
This error typically occurs due to network connectivity issues, aggressive antivirus or firewall configurations blocking the application's outbound requests, or attempting to send a corrupted PDF file.
How do I change my default email client for sending PDFs?
To change your default email client in Windows, go to Settings > Apps > Default apps. Look for 'Email' and select your preferred application (such as Outlook or Windows Mail). Your PDF reader will automatically use this client.
Does file size affect my ability to send PDFs via email?
Yes. Most email providers impose an attachment limit, usually between 20 MB and 25 MB. If your PDF exceeds this limit, the email client will fail to send the message. You should compress the PDF before attaching it.




