How to Fix Broken PDFs That Won't Upload

Some PDF files contain interactive form data (such as radio buttons, checkboxes, and text fields) that Xodo Sign cannot process correctly. This can cause issues such as being unable to upload the file or the document getting stuck during the signing process.

The solution is to flatten the PDF, which removes the interactive form data and converts it into static content. The document will look the same, but signers will no longer be able to interact with the original form fields - only the Xodo Sign fields you add.

What Flattening Does

• Form values become fixed (no longer editable)
• Dropdown and list fields take their current selected value
• Complex interactive elements are simplified into static content

How to Flatten a PDF

1. Visit a PDF flattening tool such as Sejda's Flatten PDF tool (free online tool).
2. Upload your PDF file.
3. Download the flattened PDF.
4. Upload the flattened PDF to Xodo Sign.

Note: You can also flatten PDFs using Adobe Acrobat or other PDF editing software if you prefer.

Related articles

• Why You Should Use PDF Files with Xodo Sign
• Xodo Sign Software Limitations and Requirements