ERROR MESSAGE IN GOVERNMENT WEBSITE SMART FILLABLE FORMS (US)

Hi Teresa,

I totally get how frustrating this must be—especially when it’s something you’ve done before without any issues. That error message usually pops up when a browser tries to open a “smart” fillable PDF that needs to be used specifically with Adobe Acrobat Reader. Most browsers can’t handle those advanced features, which is why you're getting redirected without clear instructions (ugh, I know 😩). To fix it, try right-clicking the form link, choosing “Save link as…”, and then opening the downloaded file directly in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC (you can get the free version here: https://get.adobe.com/reader/.

Once you open it in Reader, everything should work like it used to—you’ll be able to fill it out, save it, and then upload it back to the site. No need for any of the extra Adobe programs they try to throw at you. You’re definitely not alone in running into this, and it’s not your fault at all. You've got this—and if you need help walking through any of the steps, just say the word!

It's possible that this is a AEM/LiceCycle PDF form. They can't be viewed in the browser like a "normal" PDF (AcroForm). Try downloading the form and open it at the desktop, not browser. 

What operating system does you use?

There is never an option to "download and open in Adobe". It is a two stage process.

1. Download the form you are viewing in the usual way. (Let us know if you don't know how to download, and please give a screen shot of the whole window, including the window title and tools).

2. Start Acrobat Reader and open the file you just downloaded. I assume you have installed Acrobat Reader. If not go to http://get.adobe.com/reader