PDF forms
A PDF form is a type of PDF file with fields that you can fill out. This functions like a digital version of a paper form that you'd fill out with a pen.
Fill & sign a PDF form
If you haven't already, download the PDF form that you intend to fill out or sign.
On any computer or mobile device
Fill
Select CHOOSE FILE.
Select the PDF form.
Click within the form, then type, to fill it out.
Note: If you are unable to add any text to the fields, see the Having trouble filling out a PDF? section below.
When done, select Save. Download the form by selecting Download, or follow the instructions below to add a signature to the same PDF form.
Having trouble filling out a PDF?
If your PDF does not have fillable fields already, you can use avepdf.com/pdf-edit to add text anywhere.
Select CHOOSE FILE.
Select the PDF form
Use the T icon to type out any length of text you want to add to the PDF.
Select Apply.
In the desired space, click and drag your cursor to add the text to the page.
Tip: Once applied, you can rotate, resize, and move the text to anywhere on the page.
When done, select Save > Download to download your completed form onto your device.
Sign
Visit avepdf.com/esign-pdf.
Select CHOOSE FILE.
Select the PDF form.
Use the T icon to type your name as a signature, or the pen icon to draw your signature.
Select PLACE SIGNATURE.
Click and drag your cursor to add the signature onto the page.
Caution: Once the signature is applied, you will not be able to resize it without starting over.
When done, select Save > Download to download your completed form onto your device.
Other options
Here are some additional ways, on various devices and operating systems.
Microsoft Edge (Windows computer)
Open the PDF form with Microsoft Edge.
Fill
Click within the form, then type, to fill it out.
Note: If fields don't allow you to add content, then the form may not technically be fillable. However, you can still add text by following the On any computer or device instructions, above, instead. Or, the Adobe Acrobat instructions, below.
When done, click the Save icon, near the top right.
Sign
Note: Edge does not yet offer this option. Please follow the On any computer or device instructions, above, or the Adobe Acrobat instructions, below.
Preview (macOS computer)
Open the PDF form with Preview.
Note: If you have trouble, right-click the file, then select Open With > Preview.
Fill
Click within the form, then type, to fill it out.
Note: If fields don't allow you to add content, then the form may not technically be fillable.
However, you can still use Markup to add text.
When done, either follow the Sign instructions, below, or select File > Save.
Sign
When done, select File > Save.
Adobe Acrobat (download to any computer)
Install Adobe Acrobat Reader
If you don't already have either Adobe Acrobat Reader or Adobe Acrobat...
Visit get.adobe.com/reader.
Under Step 1, select your operating system.
Note: If you are using macOS and have upgraded to Big Sur, select Mac OS Intel 10.12 - 10.15.
Under Step 2, select your language.
Under Step 3, select your version.
Select Download Acrobat Reader.
Follow the prompts to install.
Fill & sign
Open the PDF form with either Adobe Acrobat Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
Note: If you have trouble, right-click the file then open with either of the above.
From the tools pane, on the right, select Fill & Sign > Fill and sign.
Fill
Click within the form, then type, to fill it out.
When done, either follow the Sign instructions, below, or select File > Save As...
Select where you want to save your completed form, then select Save.
Sign
Scroll to the page you want to sign.
Select Sign > Add signature, follow the prompts, then select Apply.
Note: If you've already added one, you can select it.
Click where you want your signature.
Note: You can move it around and resize it.
When done, select File > Save As...
Select where you want to save your completed form, then select Save.