How to fill in or sign a PDF
You can complete most PDF forms and add a signature on your own computer or phone, without printing. The easiest method depends on what is installed.
Programs change, so use the closest wording on your screen.
Check what kind of PDF it is
Open the file and click in a field. If the cursor appears and you can type, it is a fillable form. If not, it is a flat document, and you can add text boxes on top.
Using a free PDF reader
Adobe Acrobat Reader is free from Adobe's official website. Open the PDF in it, then look for Fill & Sign. Click on the page where you want text and type. The tool can also add ticks, crosses and dates.
Using your web browser
Browsers such as Edge and Chrome can open PDFs and sometimes let you type in fillable fields. Edge also has tools for drawing and adding text. Save the result afterwards, using Save or Print and then Save as PDF.
Adding a signature
- In your PDF tool, choose Fill & Sign or Sign.
- Choose Add signature.
- Draw it with your mouse, finger or stylus, type it, or insert a picture of your handwritten signature.
- Click where it should go and resize it.
- Save the file with a new name.
On an iPhone or iPad
Open the PDF in Files or Mail and tap Markup (a pen icon). Use the + button to add a signature or text.
On Android
Many phones have a PDF app or Google Drive. Look for a pen or edit button.
Staying safe
- Be careful with free online PDF websites. Anything you upload may be stored by someone else, so do not use them for forms with bank details, passport numbers or other private information.
- A signature picture can be copied, so do not share it publicly.
- Keep the original blank form.
When to get more help
Contact us if the form will not let you type, if the signature disappears after saving, or if you are unsure whether a signature method is acceptable.