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How to Create Fillable PDFs and Request E-Signatures on iPad
Question details
Users need to create fillable fields and request electronic signatures in a PDF using an iPad.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat Mobile App
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Setting up a document on an iPad with interactive fields so that other recipients can fill it out and sign it.
- Observed behavior
- The Add Fields option for creating fillable PDFs and requesting signatures remains completely hidden in the mobile app until a specific workflow condition is met.
Ensure you have the latest version of your PDF editor app installed from the App Store and that you are signed in to an account with an active subscription supporting e-signature requests.
Use the Request E-signatures Workflow to Unlock Form Fields
By starting an e-signature request and adding a recipient first, you can unlock the hidden 'Add Fields' feature to create a fillable PDF on your iPad.
The mobile version of Adobe Acrobat uses a specific workflow for adding form fields. To prevent users from creating incomplete forms, the app intentionally hides the 'Add Fields' button until you specify who will be receiving and signing the document.
Launch the Adobe Acrobat mobile app on your iPad and open the PDF file you want to make fillable.
Tap on the tools menu and select the 'Request e-signatures' option to initiate the workflow.
Tap 'Add Me' or manually type in at least one recipient's email address. This step is mandatory to proceed.
Once the recipient is successfully added, look at the menu options again. The previously hidden 'Add Fields' option will now be visible. Tap on it.
Select the required field types, such as text boxes, checkboxes, date fields, or signature blocks. Drag and drop them onto the document, then send the file for signatures.
Use Web-Based Online Services for PDF Editing
If the mobile app interface is restricting your workflow, you can bypass it by using web-based online services directly through your iPad browser.
Easily Edit, Fill, and Sign PDFs with WPS Office
WPS Office offers a robust built-in PDF editor that allows you to easily add text, fill forms, and insert your signature on iPads, mobile devices, and desktops without dealing with confusing hidden menus.
- 1. Open Your PDF in WPS Office: Launch the WPS Office app on your iPad and tap on your PDF file to view it.
- 2. Access the Fill & Sign Tool: Switch to the 'PDF Edit' or 'Fill & Sign' tab located in the top navigation toolbar.
- 3. Add Signatures and Text: Tap anywhere on the document where you want to add text or a signature, and use the on-screen popup tools to customize your input.
- 4. Save and Share: Once your document is filled and signed, tap 'Save' and easily share the completed PDF directly via email or messaging apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Add Fields button in the mobile PDF app?
The 'Add Fields' button is often hidden by default. To make it appear, you must first select 'Request e-signatures' and add at least one recipient's email address to the workflow. Once the recipient is added, the tool becomes available.
Can I create a complex fillable PDF form from scratch on my iPad?
Creating highly customized PDF forms with advanced elements like dropdown menus, list boxes, and action buttons typically requires desktop software (like Adobe Acrobat Pro on Windows or macOS). Mobile apps are generally limited to adding basic text, date, and signature fields.
Why can't I edit standard PDF text on my mobile device?
Editing core PDF text and objects requires complex processing and rendering. While some premium mobile apps offer basic text editing, comprehensive PDF modification is usually restricted to desktop versions due to hardware and software limitations on mobile operating systems.
Is there a free alternative to view and sign PDFs on an iPad?
Yes, alternatives like WPS Office offer excellent built-in PDF readers and editors for mobile devices. You can easily view, fill, and add your signature to PDF documents directly from your iPad with a user-friendly interface.
