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PDF form not working properly? Here's how to make it easier.

A PDF opens, but fields don't respond, calculations are missing, buttons do nothing or entries aren't saved as expected. On a smartphone, the rigid page layout makes filling in even harder.

Try your PDF form for freeRead the quick fixes first
Person at a desk comparing a rigid document on a laptop with a clear online form on a smartphone

Why PDF forms can cause problems

The cause depends on the form and the program used. Some PDFs have no interactive fields, so the PDF form can't be filled in. With others, the PDF form doesn't work fully in the browser because browser viewers don't support all advanced form functions.

Typical results: the PDF form doesn't save entries, doesn't calculate, or buttons have no effect. That doesn't mean every PDF is faulty. Simple fields often work without problems.

Quick fixes if you have to fill in a PDF

  1. 1Download the document instead of opening it in the browser.
  2. 2Open it in a current version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.
  3. 3Check whether fillable fields exist and saving is allowed.
  4. 4If problems persist, contact the publisher of the form.

If you provide forms yourself, you don't have to leave this to your users: with an HTML form, filling in works independently of the PDF viewer. Filling in on a phone also becomes much easier.

The lasting solution: convert your PDF form to HTML

Formwaro personally builds your existing PDF template as a responsive HTML form, including fields, calculations and validation rules to fit the project. Users need neither a PDF reader nor an extra app to fill it in.

  1. 01

    Existing PDF template

  2. 02

    Built as an HTML form

  3. 03

    Filled in directly in the browser

  4. 04

    Input validation

  5. 05

    PDF result generated and forwarded

Easy to fill in, PDF kept as the result

For users

  • A responsive form for smartphone, tablet and computer
  • Clear labels and suitable input fields
  • Clear error messages right at the point of entry

For public bodies and businesses

  • Still a PDF result in the agreed structure for further processing
  • Users can also receive the result, as set out in the agreed process

Accessible online forms: separate requirements

Accessible HTML input, accessible PDF output under PDF/UA-1 and archiving under PDF/A-1a are separate requirements. They are agreed, implemented and checked per project. If both are required, the PDF result must meet both requirements; PDF/A alone does not automatically mean accessibility.

A result is only considered suitable for authorities once the requirements of the receiving body have been agreed. General acceptance by authorities or an already provided proof of conformity is not promised. The form to fill in is the HTML form; the PDF is the result document generated afterwards.

Fill in the PDF directly or use an HTML form?

AspectFill in PDF directlyHTML form with Formwaro
Use on a smartphoneRigid page layout, frequent zooming and sideways scrollingResponsive fields that adapt to the screen
Dependence on the PDF viewerFunctions depend on the program usedFilled in in the browser, with no PDF reader and no app
Input checksDepends on support in the viewerRequired fields, plausibility checks and clear error messages
CalculationsNot executed in every viewerValidated calculations, built to fit the project
PDF resultCompleted document is downloaded and sent backPDF is generated after submitting and forwarded as agreed

Frequently asked questions

Put an end to problems filling in forms.

Send us your blank PDF template. We build a free online trial covering up to ten PDF pages in total.

Try your PDF form for free

Please only submit blank templates without personal data.