Creating a fillable PDF form from a Word document
This document describes how to convert a MS Word document into a PDF then add form fields creating a digital form that users can complete, sign and print.
- Assuming the client has provided a Word doc in advance, open it in Word.
Note: if you're starting with a Google Document, you can download it as a Word document, then follow these directions. - Enable editing when prompted.
- Go to the Review menu and select Check Accessibility.
- Work with the client to resolve any accessibility barriers found by the checker.
- Go to File and select Save to PDF.
- Open the PDF in Acrobat Pro DC.
- If the All tools menu isn't visible, click All tools to open it.
- Click Prepare a form.
- Click "This document requires signatures" if applicable then click Create form.
- Review the form fields that Acrobat generated. It sometimes creates fields where none are needed, or labels them "undefined." Delete any unneeded fields and rename any that are "undefined" by right clicking them in the right hand list and selecting Rename.
- Save the form when finished.