How To Make a PDF Fillable

A fillable PDF lets people type directly into fields, tick checkboxes, and add details without printing anything. Job applications, client intake forms, registration sheets, or simple checklists all become easier when they are fillable.

In this guide, we walk through several ways to make a PDF fillable. You see how to do it with Smallpdf first, then how to create simple form layouts in Word or Google Docs, and how to set up basic fields with Preview on Mac.

Quick Start: Fastest Way To Make a PDF Fillable

If you just need a fillable PDF right now, start here: 1. Open Edit PDF on Smallpdf. 2. Upload your document from your device or cloud storage. 3. Add text boxes and checkbox shapes where people should type or click. 4. Export the file as a new PDF and share it by email or link.

You can refine the layout later, but this gets a working fillable PDF in minutes.

How To Make a PDF Fillable Online With Smallpdf

Smallpdf is the most flexible option if you want a browser-based workflow that works on any device.

Step 1: Open Edit PDF

1. Go to Smallpdf and open Edit PDF.
2. Upload from your device, Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.

You can start from a blank PDF, a scanned form, or an existing template.

Step 2: Upload Your Document

Drag and drop your file into the editor. The page thumbnails appear on the left so you can switch between pages while you work.

Smallpdf supports standard PDFs plus documents you have already converted from Word, Google Docs, or other formats.

Step 3: Add Text Fields

1. Select the “Text” tool.
2. Click where you want people to type, such as under “Name,” “Email,” or “Address.”
3. Adjust font size, color, and alignment so fields are easy to read.

To create line-style spaces, type a label (for example, “Phone”) and then add an underline using the Text tool. You keep full control over how much space each answer gets.

Step 4: Add Checkboxes and Simple Form Elements

You can simulate basic form inputs using shapes: 1. Use the “Rectangle” shape to create small squares for checkboxes. 2. Copy and paste the first square to keep spacing consistent. 3. Use circles for multiple-choice options if that matches your layout. 4. Add arrows or highlight shapes to draw attention to important sections.

This approach works well for surveys, multi-step forms, or consent sections.

Step 5: Save and Share Your Fillable PDF

When your layout looks right: 1. Click “Export.” 2. Download the updated PDF to your device. 3. Or use the Smallpdf share option to generate a secure link.

You can reopen the file in Edit PDF at any time to edit fields, move boxes, or update text.

What Does It Mean To Make a PDF Fillable?

A fillable PDF is a document that people complete digitally instead of by hand. It keeps your layout fixed while still allowing input.

Typical elements include:

• Text fields for names, contact info, and short answers
• Checkbox rows for “Yes/No” or multi-select questions
• Date and signature areas
• Small notes or comment boxes

Fillable PDFs are useful when you want:

• Clean, legible responses
• Faster turnaround on forms
• Less printing, scanning, and manual data entry

You keep the visual structure of a designed document and still collect information in an organized way.

How To Make a PDF Fillable in Word or Google Docs

You can build the basic layout in Word or Google Docs, then convert to PDF and refine with Smallpdf.

Step 1: Create the Form Layout

In Word or Google Docs:

• Type labels for each field like “Full Name,” “Email,” “Address,” and “Date of Birth.”
• For text answers, add lines using underscores (__) or a simple one-cell table with no borders.
• For checkboxes, insert small square symbols or create a tiny table of equal cells.

Keep spacing generous so users have room to type when the form becomes a PDF.

Step 2: Export as PDF

• In Word: click “File” > “Save As” > “PDF.”
• In Google Docs: click “File” > “Download” > “PDF.”

You now have a static form-style PDF.

If you want people to type into it:

• Upload that PDF to Edit PDF on Smallpdf.
• Add text boxes and checkboxes on top of your layout.

This combo works well if you prefer designing forms in Word or Docs but still want a fillable final PDF.

How To Make a PDF Fillable on Mac With Preview

Preview is built into macOS and can handle simple form-style edits.

Step 1: Open the PDF in Preview

• Right-click your PDF.
• Choose “Open With” > “Preview.”

Step 2: Show the Markup Toolbar

• Click the “Markup” icon (pen tip) in the top toolbar.
• You now see tools for text, shapes, and annotations.

Step 3: Add Text and Checkbox Areas

• Click the “Text” tool and place text boxes where users should type.
• Use the “Rectangle” or “Square” shape to create basic checkboxes.
• Drag and resize fields so they line up under labels.

This method is simple and works entirely offline, but it does not support more advanced field logic or easy link sharing like Smallpdf.

Step 4: Save Your Updated PDF

• Click “File” > “Save” or press “Command + S.”

You can still upload this file to Smallpdf later if you want to add signatures, compress it, or share via link.

How To Fill In a Non-Fillable PDF Online

Sometimes you receive a PDF that has no fields at all. You can still complete it digitally. 1. Open Edit PDF. 2. Upload the form you received. 3. Use “Text” boxes to type answers in the right spots. 4. Use the “Signatures & Initials” field to add a typed, drawn, or uploaded signature. 5. Export and send the completed PDF back.

This is especially helpful for job applications, registration forms, or government PDFs that are not built as true interactive forms.

Smallpdf vs Word vs Preview: Which Method Should You Use?

Many teams design the form in Word or Docs, export to PDF, then use Smallpdf to add final fields, signatures, and sharing.

Security and Accessibility for Fillable PDFs

If you collect sensitive information, you should think about how the form is used and stored.

Security basics

• Smallpdf uses encryption during upload, processing, and download.
• Files are automatically deleted after a short period.
• You can add a password later using Protect PDF if the form includes private details.

Accessibility tips

• Use clear labels such as “Email address” rather than vague prompts.
• Keep fonts readable and avoid very light colors.
• Use enough spacing between fields so users on mobile can tap accurately.

These small choices help more people complete your form without errors.

Make Your Next PDF Easy To Fill In

A clear fillable PDF saves time for you and everyone who needs to complete it. Build or export your layout in tools you already use, then let Smallpdf handle the fillable fields, signatures, and sharing so the whole process stays simple and consistent.

FAQs: Making a PDF Fillable

Can I make a fillable PDF for free?

Yes. You can create simple fillable PDFs for free using Smallpdf Edit PDF, Google Docs plus PDF export, or Preview on Mac. No paid desktop software is required for basic forms.

What is the easiest way to add checkboxes?

In Smallpdf, use the “Shape” tool to add small squares and copy them along a row. This gives you clear checkbox-style options that stay aligned with your text labels.

Can someone fill in my PDF if they do not have Acrobat?

Yes, they can open the file in Smallpdf, most modern browsers, or other free PDF editors. With Smallpdf, they can type, sign, and download without installing anything.

Is Smallpdf safe for sensitive forms?

Smallpdf encrypts files during transfer and deletes them automatically after processing. You can also add password protection to finished PDFs with Protect PDF if you need extra security.

Can I edit a fillable PDF after I save it?

You can reopen the document in Edit PDF to move fields, add new ones, or update labels. Save it again as a new version if you want to keep both the old and new layouts.

How do I make a PDF fillable without changing the original design?

Export your form layout from Word or Google Docs as a PDF. Then upload it to Smallpdf and place text boxes and checkbox shapes exactly over the existing lines and labels. The design stays the same while the form becomes fillable.

Can I add a signature field to a fillable PDF?

Yes. In Smallpdf, use Sign PDF to add a signature area or place your own signature. You can position it at the bottom of contracts, consent forms, or approval sections.