How to Keep PDF Form Fields Fillable for Multiple Signatories
Question details
The user needs to maintain fillable form fields in a PDF so that subsequent signers can still enter data and sign after the first person has signed.
- Product
- PDF Editors
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Routing a single PDF form to multiple people for signatures and data entry.
- Observed behavior
- Applying a standard digital signature flattens the document, locking all remaining form fields and preventing other signatories from adding their information.
Before sharing the document, ensure that you have all the necessary email addresses for your signatories and that your PDF form fields are correctly labeled for each recipient.
Use a Dedicated E-Signature Workflow Tool
Using a dedicated e-signature platform prevents the document from flattening prematurely by independently managing fields for each recipient.
When you apply a standard digital signature directly in many PDF readers, the software automatically flattens the document to secure the contents, making remaining fields uneditable. Using an e-signature workflow circumvents this issue.
Log in to your preferred e-signature service (such as Acrobat Sign or WPS eSign).
Upload the fillable PDF form that you need to route for multiple signatures.
Enter the email addresses of all signatories in the exact sequential order they need to sign the document.
Assign specific fillable fields and signature blocks to each corresponding recipient so they only interact with their designated areas.
Click send. The system will automatically route the document to each person without flattening the unassigned fields until the workflow is fully complete.
Certify the PDF to Allow Form Fill-in
Certifying a PDF with specific permissions allows users to fill in forms and sign without invalidating the previous signatures or locking the document.
Use WPS Office to Manage PDF Forms and Signatures
WPS Office provides powerful PDF editing and e-signature features, allowing you to create fillable forms, manage multiple signatories, and prevent unwanted document flattening effortlessly.
- 1. Open the PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your PDF file.
- 2. Prepare the form: Go to the 'Form' tab to add or adjust fillable text fields and signature boxes for your recipients.
- 3. Use Fill & Sign: Utilize the 'Fill & Sign' feature to securely manage the signing process without flattening.
- 4. Save and share: Save the document and share it with your designated signatories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF flatten when I sign it?
Many standard PDF readers automatically flatten the document upon applying a standard digital signature. This is done by default to prevent unauthorized modifications to the signed content, but it inadvertently locks all remaining fillable fields.
Can I un-flatten a PDF after it has been signed?
Once a PDF is flattened and saved, the form fields are permanently converted to static text and cannot be un-flattened directly. You must revert to the original, unflattened file and route it using a proper e-signature workflow.
Do all signatories need to have a paid PDF editor to sign without flattening?
No. If you use an e-signature platform or a certified document workflow, signatories can usually view, fill, and sign the document using a free PDF reader or directly via a secure web browser link provided by the platform.
