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How to Use pdfFiller: Annotate PDFs Effortlessly in 2026

deur | Last updated Apr 4, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every pdfFiller feature:

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Probleemoplossing | Prijzen | Alternatieven

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used pdfFiller for over a year and tested every feature covered here. This how to Use pdfFiller tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

how to use pdfFiller

pdfFiller is one of the most powerful online PDF editor tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

pdfFiller Tutorial

This complete pdfFiller tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user of this pdf filler.

pdfFiller

Edit, sign, and manage PDF files from any device without installing software. pdfFiller offers a cloud-based pdf editor with fillable forms, digital signatures, and document management — all in your browser. Start your free trial today.

Getting Started with pdfFiller

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

Nitro PDF Editor Tutorial | Complete Beginner’s Guide

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to pdfFiller’s website at pdffiller.com.

Click “Sign Up” or “Get Started Free.”

Enter your email and create a password.

pdfFiller requires users to create an account before uploading documents.

Checkpoint: Controleer uw inbox for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Access the Dashboard

pdfFiller works entirely in your browser on any device.

No need to download or install software on your computer.

Log in with your new account from desktop or mobile.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

pdfFiller homepage

Checkpoint: You should see the main dashboard with upload options.

Step 3: Upload Your First PDF

Click “Add New” on your dashboard to upload a file.

You can upload from your device, cloud storage, or even scan pages using your camera.

pdfFiller integrates with Dropbox, Google Drive, Box, and OneDrive for easy access.

Once uploaded, the file automatically opens in the pdf editor for editing.

✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.

How to Use pdfFiller PDF Editor

PDF-editor lets you edit PDF documents directly in your browser without additional software.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch PDF Editor in action:

pdfFiller PDF Editor

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Your PDF Document

Upload your PDF file or select one from your dashboard.

The document opens in the online pdf editor automatically.

To edit existing tekst, turn on the Edit PDF mode from the toolbar.

Step 2: Add Text and Edit Content

Click where you want to add text and start typing.

Use the toolbar at the top to change fonts, sizes, and colors.

You can also highlight text and add notes using the editing tools.

pdfFiller provides a full suite of text editing tools for pdf editing.

Here’s what this looks like:

pdfFiller top benefits

Checkpoint: Your edited text should appear in the document.

Step 3: Save Your Edited Document

Click “Done” when finished with your changes.

Save the file to your pdfFiller cloud account or download it to your device.

You can also print the pdf document or send it by email.

✅ Result: You’ve edited your PDF online and saved the updated version.

💡 Pro-tip: Use “Edit PDF” mode to select and modify existing text fields directly. This makes pdf editing much faster than deleting and retyping content from scratch.

How to Use pdfFiller eSign

eSign lets you sign documents electronically and send them to multiple recipients for signatures.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch eSign in action:

pdfFiller eSign

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Create Your Digital Signature

Open a document and click the “Sign” tab in the toolbar.

Users can create their signature by typing, drawing, or uploading an image.

Your saved signatures are stored for future use across all your documents.

Step 2: Place Your Signature on the Document

Click anywhere on the pdf document to place your sign.

Drag to resize and position your digital signatures precisely.

You can also add signature fields for formal agreements and contracts.

pdfFiller provides an audit trail for every signed document.

Checkpoint: Your signature should appear on the document.

Step 3: Send for Signatures Using SendToSign

Click “SendToSign” to invite others to sign pdfs.

Add recipient email addresses and set signing order if needed.

pdfFiller allows users to share a document with multiple recipients and track progress.

Set permissions for editing or signing as needed.

✅ Result: You’ve signed your document and sent it for others to sign electronically.

💡 Pro-tip: Save time by creating reusable templates for documents you sign regularly, like contracts or NDAs. The SendToSign feature tracks progress in real time so you never lose sight of pending signatures.

How to Use pdfFiller Markup PDF

Markup PDF lets you annotate, highlight, and easily draw on your PDF files for review.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Markup PDF in action:

pdfFiller Markup PDF

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Markup Tools

Open your pdf document in the editor.

Select the markup tools from the top toolbar.

Choose from highlight, underline, strikethrough, or drawing tools.

Step 2: Annotate Your Document

Click and drag to highlight important sections of text.

Use sticky notes to add comments in specific areas.

You can easily draw shapes, arrows, and freehand notes on any page.

These pdf tools make document review fast and clear.

Checkpoint: Your annotations should be visible on the document.

Step 3: Share the Annotated PDF

Click “Done” to save your markups.

Share the annotated file via email or a direct link.

Recipients can view all your notes and comments right in their browser.

✅ Result: Your PDF now has clear annotations for review and collaboration.

💡 Pro-tip: Use different highlight colors to categorize feedback — yellow for revisions, green for approvals, and red for urgent changes. This makes managing documents much easier for teams.

How to Use pdfFiller PDF to Word

PDF to Word lets you convert static PDFs into editable Word documents in seconds.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch PDF to Word in action:

pdfFiller PDF to Word

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Select Your PDF File

Open the document you want to convert from your dashboard.

You can also upload a new pdf file from your device or cloud storage.

Step 2: Choose the Word Format

Click “Done” and select “Save As” from the options.

Choose “Word” (.docx) as your output format.

pdfFiller preserves formatting during conversion to keep your gegevens intact.

Checkpoint: You should see the conversion options appear.

Step 3: Download the Word Document

Click “Download” to save the converted file to your computer.

Open it in Microsoft Word or Google Docs to verify the conversion.

All text, images, and layout should be preserved in the new file.

✅ Result: Your PDF is now an editable Word document ready for changes.

💡 Pro-tip: For best results, make sure your original PDF has clear, selectable text. Scanned documents may need OCR processing first for accurate conversion of text fields.

How to Use pdfFiller PDF to JPEG

PDF to JPEG lets you convert PDF pages into image files for sharing or embedding.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch PDF to JPEG in action:

pdfFiller PDF to JPEG

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the PDF You Want to Convert

Select the pdf document from your dashboard or upload a new one.

The file opens in the editor where you can preview all pages.

Step 2: Export as JPEG Image

Click “Done” and select “Save As” from the menu.

Choose JPEG as your output format from the list.

Select which pages you want to convert to images.

Checkpoint: The export settings should show JPEG selected.

Step 3: Download Your Images

Click “Download” to save the JPEG files to your device.

Each page becomes a separate image file you can share anywhere.

Use these images in presentaties, social media, or websites.

✅ Result: Your PDF pages are now JPEG images ready for any use.

💡 Pro-tip: Choose the highest resolution option when converting important documents. Higher quality JPEGs look sharper when printed or displayed on large screens.

How to Use pdfFiller Word to PDF

Word to PDF lets you convert Word documents into PDF format for professional sharing.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Word to PDF in action:

pdfFiller Word to PDF

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Upload Your Word Document

Click “Add New” on your dashboard and select your .docx file.

Upload from your computer, Google Drive, or other cloud storage services.

Step 2: Review the Converted PDF

pdfFiller automatically converts your Word file into a PDF.

Review the document to make sure formatting looks correct.

Use the editor to make any final adjustments if needed.

Checkpoint: Your Word document should display as a clean PDF.

Step 3: Save or Share the PDF

Click “Done” and choose to download, email, or store in the cloud.

You can also add fillable fields before sharing if needed.

The converted PDF looks professional on any device.

✅ Result: Your Word document is now a polished PDF ready to share.

💡 Pro-tip: After converting, add watermarks or password protection before sending to clients. This keeps your documents secure and professional-looking.

How to Use pdfFiller JPEG to PDF

JPEG to PDF lets you convert image files into PDF format for professional documents.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch JPEG to PDF in action:

pdfFiller JPEG to PDF

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Upload Your JPEG Images

Click “Add New” and select the images you want to convert.

You can upload multiple images at once to create a multi-page PDF.

Step 2: Arrange and Edit Pages

Drag pages to rearrange them in the order you want.

You can manage your document’s pages by rotating or deleting them.

Add text boxes or annotations to any page if needed.

Checkpoint: All images should be in the correct order.

Step 3: Save as PDF

Click “Done” and download your new PDF document.

The images are now combined into a single professional PDF file.

✅ Result: Your JPEG images are now a single PDF document.

💡 Pro-tip: Use this feature to scan receipts with your phone camera and combine them into one PDF. It’s perfect for expense reports and keeping records organized.

How to Use pdfFiller Form Builder

Form Bouwer lets you create fillable PDF forms with check boxes, text fields, and dropdown menus.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Form Builder in action:

pdfFiller Form Builder

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open a Document for Form Creation

Upload a PDF or start with a blank template from the dashboard.

pdfFiller offers a built-in library of forms and reusable templates.

Choose a template or create fillable forms from scratch.

Step 2: Add Fillable Fields to Your Form

Drag and drop form fields onto your document.

Users can add fillable fields, text boxes, check boxes, and images directly.

You can also add conditional logic to show or hide fields based on answers.

Set up signature fields for recipients who need to sign.

Checkpoint: Your form should have all required fillable fields in place.

Step 3: Publish or Share Your Form

Click “Done” and choose how to distribute your fillable form.

Share via email, a direct link, or embed on your website.

You can also connect online forms to a payment system for invoices.

Filling out pdf forms online saves time compared to printing and scanning.

✅ Result: You’ve built a professional fillable PDF form ready for recipients.

💡 Pro-tip: Use conditional logic to create smart forms that adapt based on user input. For example, show additional address fields only when “International” is selected. This keeps your online forms clean and focused.

How to Use pdfFiller Protect PDF

Protect PDF lets you add watermarks, password protection, and redaction to secure your files.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Protect PDF in action:

pdfFiller Protect PDF

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Security Settings

Open your PDF and navigate to the beveiliging opties.

pdfFiller provides options to password-protect documents or store them in encrypted folders.

Step 2: Add Protection Features

Set a password to restrict who can open or edit the document.

Add watermarks to protect your content from unauthorized use.

Use redaction tools to erase sensitive information from your PDF.

Users can redact or erase private data using specific tools in pdfFiller.

pdfFiller helps protect your data and comply with security regulations including HIPAA.

Checkpoint: Your protection settings should be active on the document.

Step 3: Save the Protected PDF

Click “Done” to apply all security settings.

Save the protected version to your cloud account.

Share the secured file knowing your details are safe.

✅ Result: Your PDF is now protected with password, watermark, or redaction.

💡 Pro-tip: Always redact sensitive data before sharing contracts or formal agreements. Once redacted, the information is permanently removed — it can’t be recovered even from the original file.

pdfFiller Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing pdfFiller for over a year, here are my best tips.

Toetsenbord sneltoetsen

ActionShortcut
Undo last actionCtrl + Z (Cmd + Z on Mac)
Redo actionCtrl + Y (Cmd + Y on Mac)
Save documentCtrl + S (Cmd + S on Mac)
Print documentCtrl + P (Cmd + P on Mac)

Hidden Features Most People Miss

  • Built-in Template Library: Access millions of pre-made fillable forms from the search bar. Search for tax forms, contracts, or applications without creating from scratch.
  • Auto-Fill Feature: Save your personal details once and pdfFiller auto-fills matching form fields across all your documents. This can save time on repetitive forms.
  • Bulk Send: Send the same document to multiple recipients at once with personalized fields for each person. Perfect for managing documents across teams.

pdfFiller Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Not Using Edit PDF Mode for Existing Text

❌ Wrong: Placing new text boxes over existing text to make edits to your pdf document.

✅ Right: Turn on “Edit PDF” mode to select and modify the original text directly. This keeps formatting clean.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Save Before Closing

❌ Wrong: Closing the browser tab without clicking “Done” and losing all your changes.

✅ Right: Always click “Done” to save your work. Your edited PDF stays safe in cloud storage.

Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Form Field Types

❌ Wrong: Using text fields where check boxes or dropdown menus would work better for recipients.

✅ Right: Match form field types to the data you’re collecting. Use check boxes for yes/no and dropdowns for lists.

pdfFiller Troubleshooting

Problem: PDF Won’t Upload

Cause: The file may be too large or in an unsupported format.

Repareren: Make sure your file is a valid PDF under 25MB. Try uploading from a different browser or clearing your cache. You can also upload from Google Drive or Dropbox instead.

Problem: Text Editing Not Working

Cause: The PDF may be a scanned image rather than a text-based document.

Repareren: Use pdfFiller’s OCR feature to convert the scanned image into editable text first. Then edit pdf files as normal using the toolbar at the top.

Problem: Recipients Can’t Open Signed Document

Cause: The recipient may not have a pdfFiller account or the link expired.

Repareren: Resend the document and choose “Download as PDF” to attach a standard PDF file instead. This ensures access on any device without needing any additional software.

📌 Opmerking: If none of these fix your issue, contact pdfFiller support.

Wat is pdfFiller?

pdfFiller is a cloud-based document management platform that lets you edit pdf online, sign pdfs, and create fillable forms from any device.

Think of it like a complete office for your PDF files — all in your browser.

pdfFiller is a cloud-based platform providing a comprehensive solution for working with documents and forms online.

The platform transforms manual, paper-based document workflows into real-time digital services.

pdfFiller offers advanced editing features tailored to professionals and businesses.

Watch this quick overview:

Nitro Pro: Editing Text

It includes these key features:

  • PDF-editor: Edit PDF documents, add text, and modify content without downloading software
  • eSign: Sign documents with digital signatures and send to multiple recipients for signing
  • Markup PDF: Annotate, highlight, and easily draw on PDFs for team review
  • PDF naar Word: Convert PDF files into editable Word documents while preserving layout
  • Formulierbouwer: Create fillable PDF forms with fillable fields, check boxes, and conditional logic
  • PDF beveiligen: Add watermarks, password protection, and redact sensitive data from pdf files

pdfFiller is designed to handle everything from text editing to e-signatures, making it an essential tool for managing pdf files.

The platform works on desktop and mobile browsers for paperless document handling.

pdfFiller helps protect your data and comply with industry-leading security regulations, including HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, and PCI DSS.

For a full review, see our pdfFiller review.

pdfFiller Pricing

Here’s what pdfFiller costs in 2026:

PlanPrijsHet beste voor
Basis$8 per maandIndividuals who need core PDF editing and form filling
Plus$12/maandUsers who want reusable templates and enhanced features
Premie$15/maandProfessionals who need e-signatures and advanced tools

Gratis proefperiode: Yes — pdfFiller offers a free trial so you can test features before committing.

Geld-terug-garantie: Contact support for refund requests within your billing period.

pdfFiller pricing

💰 Best Value: Plus plan at $12/month — it includes templates and enhanced editing tools that save time for regular users without the full Premium price.

pdfFiller vs Alternatives

How does pdfFiller compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

HulpmiddelHet beste voorPrijsRating
pdfFillerAll-in-one PDF editing and signing$8/maand⭐ 4.5
PDF-expertMac-focused PDF editing$4,99/week⭐ 4.6
FoxitDesktop PDF editing with AI$10.99/mo⭐ 4.6
TenorshareAI-powered PDF tools$4.49/mo⭐ 4.3
PDF-elementAffordable desktop PDF editor$11.99/quarter⭐ 3.9
Nitro PDFBedrijf PDF workflows$15/user/mo⭐ 3.8
DocHubFree online PDF editingFree – $12/mo⭐ 3.9
UPDFBudget PDF editor with AI$39,99/jaar⭐ 3.7

Quick picks:

  • Best overall: pdfFiller — Most complete cloud-based PDF editor with forms, signing, and security
  • Best budget: DocHub — Free plan covers basic pdf editing needs
  • Best for beginners: UPDF — Simple interface for casual PDF users
  • Best for Mac users: PDF Expert — Built specifically for Apple apparaten

🎯 pdfFiller Alternatives

Looking for pdfFiller alternatives? Here are the top options:

  • 🚀 PDF-expert: Fast, Mac-native PDF editor with a clean interface. Best for Apple users who want speed and simplicity on any Mac device.
  • 🧠 Foxit: AI-powered PDF editor with desktop and cloud access. Strong for teams needing advanced features like smart redaction and OCR.
  • Tenorshare: AI writing and PDF tools bundled together. Good for users who want AI assistance alongside basic pdf editing features.
  • 💼 PDF-element: Desktop PDF editor with affordable one-time purchase option. Great for users who prefer not to pay monthly subscription fees.
  • 🏢 Nitro PDF: Enterprise-grade PDF platform built for bedrijf workflows. Strong for large teams needing document management at scale.
  • 💰 DocHub: Free online PDF editor with basic editing and signing features. Perfect for users who need occasional pdf editing without paying.
  • 🌟 UPDF: Budget-friendly PDF editor with AI features and a modern interface. Best for individuals on a tight budget who still want quality tools.

For the full list, see our pdfFiller alternatives guide.

⚔️ pdfFiller Compared

Here’s how pdfFiller stacks up against each competitor:

  • pdfFiller vs PDF Expert: pdfFiller wins for cloud-based editing and fillable forms. PDF Expert wins for Mac users who want a fast native desktop app.
  • pdfFiller vs Foxit: pdfFiller is simpler for online forms and signing. Foxit offers more desktop power with AI redaction and enterprise tools.
  • pdfFiller vs Tenorshare: pdfFiller has stronger PDF editing and document management. Tenorshare stands out for AI writing and content creation tools.
  • pdfFiller vs PDFelement: pdfFiller excels at cloud access and online forms. PDFelement offers a cheaper one-time purchase for desktop-only users.
  • pdfFiller vs Nitro PDF: pdfFiller is more affordable and easier for small teams. Nitro PDF suits larger enterprises needing advanced security controls.
  • pdfFiller vs DocHub: pdfFiller has more features for forms and signing. DocHub wins on price with its free plan for basic pdf editing needs.
  • pdfFiller vs UPDF: pdfFiller offers better cloud-based document management. UPDF is cheaper with a one-time payment and built-in AI features.

Start Using pdfFiller Now

You learned how to use every major pdfFiller feature:

  • ✅ PDF Editor
  • ✅ eSign
  • ✅ Markup PDF
  • ✅ PDF to Word
  • ✅ Form Builder
  • ✅ Protect PDF

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with the PDF Editor to edit pdf online.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Veelgestelde vragen

How do you use pdfFiller?

To use pdfFiller, create a free account at pdffiller.com and upload your pdf document. The file opens in the online pdf editor where you can add text, sign documents, or create fillable forms. When you’re done, save the updated document and download it or share via email. The whole process takes just a few clicks.

How do I fill out a PDF form that was emailed to me for free?

You can fill out pdf forms online using pdfFiller’s free trial. Upload the pdf file from your email to pdfFiller, then use the pdf form filler to add text, check boxes, and your signature. Many online pdf redacteuren allow users to fill out basic forms in the browser without needing to install software on your computer.

Is pdfFiller actually free?

pdfFiller offers a free trial but is not completely free. After the trial, pricing starts at $8/month for the Basic plan. Many online pdf editors offer free trials or limited free usage for filling and signing documents. DocFly and DocHub offer free alternatives if you only need basic pdf editing features.

How to copy and paste on pdfFiller?

To copy and paste in pdfFiller, turn on “Edit PDF” mode and select the text you want to copy. Use Ctrl+C (or Cmd+C on Mac) to copy and Ctrl+V (or Cmd+V on Mac) to paste. You can also right-click to access the copy and paste options. This works for text fields and text boxes within the editor.

How to use pdfFiller without paying?

Start with pdfFiller’s free trial to access all features temporarily. During the trial, you can edit pdf documents, sign pdfs, and create fillable forms. If you want a permanently free option, consider DocHub which has a free plan for basic pdf editing. Users can also create electronic signatures for free using pdfFiller’s trial period.

Is there a free pdfFiller?

pdfFiller does not have a permanent free plan. However, it offers a free trial that gives full access to all pdf tools and features. After the trial ends, you’ll need a paid subscription starting at $8/month. If you’re looking for a free pdf editor, DocHub and some basic online pdf editors offer limited free usage.

How to download PDF from pdfFiller without paying?

During the free trial period, you can download edited PDF files without additional charges. Sign up for the trial, upload and edit your document, then click “Done” and select “Download.” Make sure to download your files before the trial expires. You can save to your device or send via email.

Can you use pdfFiller for free?

You can use pdfFiller for free during the trial period. The trial provides access to all features including the pdf editor, e-signatures, and form builder. After that, the Basic plan starts at $8/month. Many PDF editing tools like Adobe Acrobat can be expensive compared to alternatives like pdfFiller or DocFly.

How to fill in a PDF file for free?

Users can fill out pdf forms online using pdfFiller’s free trial or other free services. Upload the file to the online pdf editor, then use the tools to add text to form fields, check boxes, and signature fields. Most online pdf editing tools are accessible from any device with an internet connection. Filling out forms online can save time compared to printing and scanning.

How do I use pdfFiller?

To use pdfFiller, visit pdffiller.com and sign up for an account. Upload your pdf document from your device, Google Drive, Dropbox, or other cloud storage. The file opens in the editor where you can edit pdf, add fillable fields, sign, and enhance your document. Save or download when finished. pdfFiller’s interface is designed for ease of use on any screen.

How to use PDF form filler?

Open your PDF in pdfFiller’s pdf form filler by uploading it to your dashboard. Click on any fillable fields to start entering your data. Use tab to move between fields quickly. For static pdfs without form fields, use the “Add Text” tool to type in the blank areas. You can also add check boxes and signature fields to make it a proper fillable form.

How to edit a document on pdfFiller?

To edit a pdf document with pdfFiller, upload your document first. Once the file is uploaded, it automatically opens in the pdf editor for editing. Use the toolbar at the top to add text, highlight content, add notes, or modify existing text. You can also manage your document’s pages by arranging, rotating, duplicating, or deleting them. Click “Done” to save.

Is pdfFiller better than DocuSign?

pdfFiller and DocuSign serve different needs. pdfFiller is a full online pdf editor with forms, editing, and e-signatures. DocuSign focuses mainly on digital signatures and document workflows. If you need to edit pdf files and create forms, pdfFiller is the better choice. If you only need signatures for contracts and formal agreements, DocuSign may work fine.

Is pdfFiller fake?

No, pdfFiller is a legitimate cloud-based pdf editor used by over 56 million users worldwide. It provides real pdf tools for editing, signing, and managing documents. pdfFiller helps protect your data with HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, and PCI DSS compliance. The company has been in the market since 2008 and is widely reviewed on sites like G2, Capterra, and Trustpilot.

How to print a document from pdfFiller?

To print from pdfFiller, open your document and click “Done.” Select the “Print” option from the save menu, or use Ctrl+P (Cmd+P on Mac). Your browser’s print dialog will open where you can select your printer and adjust settings. You can also download the pdf file first and then print from your device using your preferred PDF reader.

Can pdfFiller be trusted?

Yes, pdfFiller can be trusted for document management. The platform uses encryption to protect your data and complies with HIPAA, SOC 2 Type II, and PCI DSS security standards. All documents are stored securely in the cloud with access controls. pdfFiller provides users with the ability to securely sign documents electronically and manage all documents from any device.

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