Fix PDF Form Submit Button Not Working After Signing
Question details
The user is unable to click or use the Submit button on a PDF form after applying a digital signature.
- Product
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Filling out and attempting to submit a completed PDF form that requires a digital signature.
- Observed behavior
- The mouse pointer changes when hovering over the Submit button, but the button is disabled and cannot be selected or activated after the document is signed.
Verify if the Submit button works before applying your digital signature to determine whether the signature lock settings or a broken button link is causing the issue.
Adjust Digital Signature Lock Settings (For Form Creators)
Change the signature field properties to ensure the Submit button is excluded from the document lock.
When a digital signature field is created, it can be configured to lock certain fields upon signing to prevent tampering. If it is set to 'Lock all fields', the Submit button will also be disabled.
To resolve this, the creator of the form must modify the signature field properties.
Open the unsigned PDF form in your preferred PDF editor and enter the form preparation or editing mode.
Right-click the digital signature field that users will sign, and select 'Properties' from the context menu.
Navigate to the 'Signed' tab in the properties dialog. If 'This signature locks' is checked, change the selection from 'All fields' to 'Just these fields'.
Click the 'Select Fields' button and choose only the text inputs and checkboxes you want locked, ensuring the Submit button remains unchecked. Save the PDF.
Contact the Form Administrator (For Form Fillers)
Request the document owner to fix the form's signature properties if you do not have editing permissions.
Easily Manage PDF Forms and Signatures with WPS Office
WPS Office provides advanced PDF editing and form creation tools, allowing you to easily configure digital signature lock settings so interactive buttons remain fully functional.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF form you need to modify or sign.
- 2. Access Form Tools: Navigate to the 'Form' or 'Edit' tab located in the top ribbon to access the interactive field tools.
- 3. Edit Field Properties: Select the signature field or the Submit button to review and adjust their properties and actions.
- 4. Save and Share: Once the lock settings are corrected, save the PDF and share it with users for a seamless signing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the submit button become unclickable after signing?
When a digital signature is applied, it often locks the document to prevent subsequent tampering. If the form creator configured the signature to 'Lock all fields,' this restriction applies to interactive elements like the Submit button, rendering it disabled.
How can a form creator prevent the submit button from locking?
In the signature field properties, the creator should go to the 'Signed' tab, set the action to 'Just these fields,' and manually select the data entry fields they want to secure, leaving the Submit button out of the locked list.
Can I remove my signature to submit the form?
Yes. If you applied the signature yourself and still have access to the corresponding digital ID, you can typically right-click your signature and choose 'Clear Signature.' This will remove the lock, allowing you to click the Submit button, though the recipient will receive an unsigned form.
Does a visual signature also lock the form?
A standard image stamp or drawn signature does not automatically lock form fields. Field locking is a specific security feature associated with cryptographic digital signatures and certificate-based signing.
