Adobe once held immense popularity as everyone's go-to choice for handling PDF files, from viewing to editing. However, it has faced significant setbacks, such as the automatic upgrade to a monthly subscription after forgetting to terminate a free InDesign trial, which occurred without notice. In response to such challenges, many users are seeking alternatives to Adobe Acrobat. However, it's worth noting that there's still a free method to access Adobe Acrobat without monetary involvement. In this article, we'll outline how to achieve this, providing users with a viable solution.
How to Fill and Sign PDF Online for Free in Adobe?
Adobe, a renowned brand for its PDF solutions, offers a range of free online tools for its users. One such tool is the free Adobe Fill and Sign, enabling users to upload documents, input information, and even sign PDF documents. For those wondering about the cost, Adobe Fill and Sign is indeed free to use online, and here's a step-by-step guide on how to utilize it:
Step 1: To access Adobe's online tools, visit their official website through your browser. Note: Users will need to register/login to access Adobe's online tools.
Step 2: In the menu bar, hover over the "E-Sign" option to open the dropdown menu, then select "Fill & Sign".
Step 3: The Adobe Fill & Sign tool window will open. Here, users need to upload their PDF. To do this, click on the "Select a file" button to upload the PDF.
Step 4: Once the PDF is uploaded, users can effortlessly fill in their PDFs by clicking on the fields.
Step 5: To sign the documents, locate the "Ink" icon in the hover menu on the left, click on it to open Signatures.
Step 6: If you have a signature added, it will appear here; otherwise, users can create a new signature by clicking on "Add Signature".
Step 7: Create a new signature using your keyboard, draw, or insert an image. Once done, click on "Save”.
Step 8: Now place the signature anywhere in your PDF, left-click on the mouse to insert the signature in your PDF.
Step 9: Users can adjust the size of the image using the editing hover menu above the signature. Utilize the "A" icon to either increase or decrease the size of your signature.
Note: Users can also drag the borders to adjust the size of the signature.
Step 10: Once the editing is complete, simply click on the "Download" button to save a copy of the filled and signed PDF.
Note: PDFs signed using the online Adobe Fill and Sign tool cannot be edited using the Adobe Acrobat app.
How to Share Documents for E-Signatures in Adobe Acrobat?
Step 1: Open the PDF you want signed on Adobe, and locate "Request e-signatures" in the left panel where Adobe tools are listed.
Step 2: Clicking on "Request e-signatures" will bring up a pop-up acting as an email host. Enter the email IDs of your colleagues and request their signatures.
Step 3: To direct the email to your peers, type their email addresses in the "Add recipients to e-sign this document" field and press enter.
Step 4: The second textbox is the subject field, automatically populated with the PDF name, edit the subject line if needed.
Step 5: The last textbox is for the body of the email; enter instructions if desired, and click on the "Specify where to sign" button.
Step 6: The PDF will be uploaded to the cloud; this may take a few moments.
Step 7: Once uploaded, specify where to place the signature by clicking on the document. An orange textbox will be added, serving only as a visual guide.
Step 8: For advanced setup, toggle the "Advanced Editing" features in the left panel.
Step 9: Advanced editing tools enable the addition of specific text boxes (e.g., Name, company fields) by dragging and dropping them into the PDF.
Step 10: After specifying positions, click on "Send" to email the document to your colleagues.
Step 11: The document will be prepared, and you'll receive a notification on-screen. Users will also get an email notification from Adobe.
Adobe Acrobat is renowned for its PDF solutions, and while it offers many of its tools for free, the Request E-Signature feature is not available free of charge. Adobe Acrobat provides only 2 free e-signatures, after which users will need to subscribe to continue using this service.
Use Other Professional PDF Editors to Fill and Sign PDF Online for Free
Adobe is undeniably one of the best PDF solutions available. Consequently, we decided to explore other PDF solutions that are competing with Adobe Fill and Sign online tools for the top spot.
1. WPS PDF Tools
WPS Office serves as an exemplary illustration of efficiency, and WPS PDF is no exception. It provides an extensive array of conveniences for individuals dealing with PDFs, whether occasionally or frequently. From sharing to collaboration, WPS PDF offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including an online PDF editor, converter, merger, form filler, and organizer.
This multifunctional platform simplifies tasks such as editing pages, text, or layouts on PDF documents, mirroring the experience of working with Word documents, and all of this is available completely free of charge.
Pros:
Has a user-friendly interface for easy operation.
Offers seamless PDF viewing experience, ranking among the top apps.
Available across multiple platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Provides a plethora of pre-loaded templates for presentation slides.
Facilitates easy sharing of documents.
Cons:
Insufficient tools for comprehensive PDF editing.
How to use:
To utilize the Fill & Sign feature in WPS PDF Tools, follow these steps:
Step 1: Start by visiting the WPS PDF Tools website in your browser.
Step 2: Locate the "Signing PDF" tool and click on it to open.
Step 3: You will be redirected to the WPS PDF Fill & Sign tool page. Here, click on "Select PDF File" to upload your PDF file for editing.
Step 4: Once uploaded, the file will open in the built-in WPS PDF editor. In the menu bar at the top left of the interface, find the "New Signature" option.
Step 5: Click on it and create your new signature by typing your credentials, drawing it on the screen, or uploading a picture. WPS PDF provides several ways to add your custom sign.
Step 6: Users can also change the font styles of their signatures, a feature not available in Adobe Online tools. Once the signature is created, click on "Save".
Step 7: Now, place your signature in the PDF document with a simple click of the mouse. To adjust the size, drag the border of your signature.
Step 8: Now that your signature is added, click on "Finish" to proceed to the download page.
Step 9: The WPS PDF Signer tool will process the document and be available for download. Click on "Download" to save a copy.
One notable aspect of WPS PDF Tools is the excellent personalization of the signature and the uncluttered interface. The tool is user-friendly, making navigation clean and easy.
2. pdfFiller
pdfFiller stands out with its versatile features for editing and organizing PDF documents. As a web-based platform, it facilitates seamless collaboration among users, while also ensuring security through password-protected pages. Despite its strengths, pdfFiller has some limitations, including relatively high pricing and a notable learning curve associated with mastering its advanced functionalities.
Pros:
Offers a diverse range of online tools for filling and signing PDF documents.
Files are stored on the cloud for convenient access.
Ensures password protection for documents
Cons:
Pricing may be considered expensive
Advanced features come with a steep learning curve
Canceling a subscription can be confusing
How to use:
Here are the steps to fill and sign your PDFs using the PDFfiller online tool.
Step 1: Open your browser and go to the PDF Filler's Fill and Sign tool.
Step 2: Click on the "Select from device" button to upload your document.
There are various ways to upload your PDF, such as from cloud services like Google Drive or OneDrive.
Step 3: Once uploaded, you can click on the fillable fields and type the information you need to fill.
Step 4: To sign, find the "Sign" option in the menu bar, represented by an "Ink" icon, and click on it.
Step 5: A sign window will pop up, where users can create a signature. PDF Filler provides various unique ways to create a signature. Scroll down and select the option that best suits you.
Step 6: In PDF Filler, you can also change the font style of your signature if you've typed it. After creating your signature, click on "Save & Sign”.
Step 7: After filling and signing your PDF, click on the "Download" icon to save a copy.
PDF Filler is a premium alternative, offering advanced tools. However, these tools are also available in other PDF solutions. One limitation is that you can't freely move the signature around; once placed, it can only be resized.
3. PDF Simpli
PDFSimpli is an online platform offering versatile document conversion capabilities. It seamlessly transforms multiple file formats into PDFs and vice versa. Users can also leverage its advanced functionalities, including document signing and watermarking, for enhanced document management.
Pros:
Fast performance
Useful for editing and form-filling tasks
Cons:
Not a cost-effective choice
Separate tools for filling and signing make the process cumbersome
How to use:
Here are the steps to fill and sign your PDFs using the PDF Simpli online tool:
Step 1: Navigate to the PDF Simpli Fill and Sign tool in your browser.
Step 2: Click on the "Upload PDF to edit" button to upload your PDF.
Step 3: Once uploaded, users can edit all the fillable fields in the PDF simply by clicking on them and using the keyboard to input information.
Step 4: For signing, PDF Simpli has an extension called SignSimpli. To access it, click on the "Signature" option in the menu bar.
Step 5: A notification will pop up; click on "Continue" to proceed to the SignSimpli extension.
Step 6: Click on "Save" to ensure all changes made to the PDF are saved before moving forward to SignSimpli.
Step 7: In the next window, click on the "Sign Document" button to open SignSimpli.
Step 8: To create your first new signature, SignSimpli will ask for your information, such as your full name and email address.
Step 9: Once you've entered your information, click on "Create Your Signature" to start creating your first custom sign on SignSimpli.
Step 10: Users can create their own signature using text, drawing, or uploading an image. If you choose text, you can select different font styles and then click on "Create".
Step 11: Return to your information page, click on "Continue".
Step 12: Now, click on the "Signature" option in the left side panel and place the signature on the PDF using your mouse.
Step 13: Users can adjust the size of the signature using the hover menu or by dragging the borders of the signature to resize.
Step 14: To download a copy of the filled and signed PDF from PDF Simpli, click on "Finish".
Alt text: Finish editing PDF in SignSimpli
Step 15: PDF Simpli gives its users the option of sending the filled and signed PDF directly to others via email. Enter their details to send. If you wish to skip, click on "No Thanks" to complete the download.
The process to fill and sign a PDF using PDF Simpli is lengthy and cumbersome, and it is another premium alternative to Adobe Online Tools.
Why WPS PDF Tools is the Best Alternative to Adobe?
Adobe Acrobat PDF has experienced a significant decline, marked by sluggish performance, frequent bugs, and excessive bloat. Users often encounter frustrating delays and glitches, including laggy scrolling, endless "Preparing document..." prompts, and frequent crashes.
However, WPS Office presents a compelling alternative with its PDF tool, which is not only swift and reliable but also entirely free. With WPS PDF, users gain access to a comprehensive suite of tools for sharing and collaboration. From online editing to conversion, merging, form filling, and organization, WPS PDF streamlines various tasks, offering a seamless experience akin to working with Word documents.
If you don't want to go through the hassle of downloading an entire office suite just to access its PDF tools, there's a convenient option available: downloading its extension. By integrating with Chrome, you can easily use it that way. With the WPS PDF Extension, users can view, comment, draw, and annotate PDF files directly in their browser.
Moreover, if users frequently need to merge PDF files, they can also install the WPS PDF extension in Google Chrome. This allows them not only to view and annotate PDF files online but also to quickly access functions like merging PDF files and converting formats.
FAQS:
1. In what ways can PDF forms be classified?
There are two primary types:
Interactive Forms: These feature fields users can select and fill in with their information.
Flat Forms: Without interactive features, these documents may resemble conventional paper forms or less intuitive PDFs. The Fill & Sign tool is designed to identify form elements like text boxes, checkboxes, and radio buttons. Users manually input their information and the tool aids in smoothly incorporating text and symbols as needed.
2. How to upload a photo of a signature online in Adobe?
If you want to add a photo of your signature to a PDF document, follow the guide below:
Step 1: Visit the official Adobe website and, in the menu bar, hover over "E-Sign".
Step 2: From the E-Sign drop-down menu, select "Fill & Sign".
Step 3: Utilize the "Select a file" button or drag and drop your file into the specified area to upload your PDF.
Step 4: Navigate to the Sign panel and choose "Add signature".
Step 5: In the signature window, users can create a new signature using text, draw, or upload an image. Click on "Image" to upload an image signature.
Step 6: Click on "Select image" to upload an image of your signature.
Step 7: After uploading the image, verify its completeness. Users can reposition the image using the curled arrow at the bottom left, then click "Save."
Step 8: Now, simply drag your new signature to a signature field or any spot on the PDF. Click to position your signature.
3. How many signatures can I add to a single PDF document using Adobe tools?
You can add numerous signatures to a PDF form, making it convenient for documents requiring approval from different individuals or parties. Whether for team projects or collaborative agreements, Adobe tools allow you to include several signatures in a single PDF document.
4. Is it possible to fill and sign PDF forms using my mobile device?
Yes, you can. Adobe offers suitable mobile applications like Adobe Fill & Sign, allowing you to effortlessly fill in and sign PDF forms directly on your mobile devices. This flexibility ensures you can manage important documents on the go, providing a smooth and free solution for your mobile form-filling requirements.
Switch to WPS PDF Excellence
While using Adobe for free may have felt like hitting the jackpot at one point, its competitiveness in the market has dwindled over time. With formidable competitors like WPS Office PDF offering similar capabilities, if not more, you may find yourself inclined to switch allegiances. WPS PDF can be easily downloaded for free, allowing you to explore its PDF tools, and you're guaranteed not to look back. Additionally, their responsive customer support ensures all your needs are met. Download WPS PDF today to experience the difference and elevate your PDF editing and management experience with a comprehensive suite of tools, user-friendly interface, and efficient performance.
