Need to label your pages with titles or notes? Here's how to add header to PDF files — and apply footers across all pages without changing the layout.
Headers and footers help organize large documents, add dates or names, and create a polished final version.
We’ll show you how to add, customize, and apply headers and footers using simple tools.
How to Add a Header to a PDF
Adding a header gives your document a clear, consistent title across every page. Here's how to add header to PDF files step by step.
Step 1: Open the File in a PDF Editor
- Go to Edit PDF
- Upload your document from your device or cloud
- Wait for the editor to load your file
Step 2: Insert Header Text at the Top
- Select the Text tool
- Click near the top margin of the first page
- Type your header (e.g., document title, author, or subject)
- Adjust font size, color, or alignment to match your style
Add a Header to a PDF
Step 3: Copy and Paste to Other Pages (if needed)
- Copy your header and paste it onto each page manually
- Or repeat the same steps on every page where a header is needed
This is the easiest way to add header to PDF documents without needing advanced software.
How to Add a Footer to a PDF
Footers are ideal for dates, document IDs, or small notes that sit at the bottom of each page.
Step 1: Open Your PDF in Edit Mode
- Upload your file to Edit PDF
- Make sure all pages load properly before editing
Step 2: Add Text to the Bottom Margin
- Use the Text tool again
- Click near the bottom edge of the page
- Type your footer (e.g., date, copyright, or page info)
- Align it left, center, or right, depending on your layout
Step 3: Repeat Across Pages
- Copy and paste the same footer to every page manually
- Add page numbers for automated numbering if needed
- Save your file once all edits are complete
Now you’ve added a footer to your PDF without affecting the rest of the content.
How to Add a Header and Footer to All Pages of a PDF at Once
If you’re working with a long document, adding headers and footers page by page can be time-consuming. Here's how to streamline the process:
- Use batch editing tools inside pro-level software or plugins
- For basic edits, create a template page with the header and footer and paste it across all pages
- If you already have page numbers or top margins, align your edits with Crop PDF to avoid overlap
Smallpdf keeps it simple — manual placement works great for short files. For longer PDFs, it's best to prepare your layout beforehand and apply consistent placement using the toolbar.
Points to Remember While Adding Header and Footer to a PDF
- Keep spacing consistent—headers and footers should be the same distance from page edges
- Use a smaller font size than your main content
- Avoid placing headers or footers too close to images or tables
- Save a copy first, especially when editing original files
- Combine it with adding page numbers to your PDF for complete formatting.
These details help maintain a clean, professional look across your document.
FAQs
1. Can I add a header to a PDF without editing the original file?
Yes. Work on a copy of your PDF in Edit PDF to preserve your original version while adding headers.
2. Is it possible to apply headers to just the first page of a PDF?
Yes. Simply insert the header on the first page only and leave the rest untouched. This is useful for cover pages or titles.
3. Can You Add Different Headers on Different Pages in a PDF?
You can, but it’s a manual process. Use the Text tool on each page to customize headers one by one.
4. Why does my footer text get cut off in the PDF?
It’s likely placed outside the printable margin. Try moving it up slightly and use Crop PDF to adjust spacing.
5. Do I need to convert my PDF to Word to add headers?
No. You can add headers directly in Edit PDF without converting formats.
6. Can I remove or edit headers/footers later?
Yes. As long as they were added with a text tool, you can reopen the file in Edit PDF, click the header or footer, and delete or update the text.
