How to Make a PDF Fillable (Free and Paid Methods)

A fillable PDF contains form fields – text boxes, checkboxes and drop-downs – that people can type into. You can create one for free with LibreOffice or with Adobe Acrobat Pro. If you just need to fill in a form that has no fields, you can type directly on it instead.

Method 1: Create a fillable PDF for free with LibreOffice

• Install LibreOffice (free) and create your form in LibreOffice Writer, or open an existing Word form.
• Go to View › Toolbars › Form Controls.
• Insert text boxes, checkboxes or list boxes where users should type or choose.
• Right-click each field › Control Properties to give it a name.
• Choose File › Export As › Export as PDF, make sure “Create PDF form” is ticked, and export.

The resulting PDF has real form fields that work in any PDF reader.

Method 2: Adobe Acrobat Pro

In Acrobat Pro, open the PDF and choose Prepare Form. Acrobat detects lines and boxes and suggests fields automatically; you can add, rename or delete fields and save. This requires a paid Acrobat subscription.

How to fill in a PDF that is not fillable

Not every form needs real fields. With Edit PDF you can click anywhere on the page and type text, tick boxes with a character such as ✓, add images and then add your signature with Sign PDF – all in the browser and without uploading the file.

Tips for good PDF forms

• Give every field a clear, unique name.
• Leave enough room in text fields for long answers.
• Test the form in Adobe Reader and a browser before sending it.
• If you need people to sign, add a clear signature area.

Tools mentioned in this guide