trouble editing fillable pdf

[olivia_2415]

Why can't I edit a fillable PDF? I filled the pdf out previously and signed it. I opened the saved document to edit it again and the original text can be changed but the updated I made when filling it out cannot. I've checked for permissions issues, ensures the document is not locked, and done everything that they recommend to troubleshoot, but no luck. Making a copy didn't help, redownloading didn't help. Please help! 

[try67 · Accepted solution]

Signing locks the file and prevents changing it. You need to clear the signature field first, then save the file and possibly close and then re-open it, and then you'd be able to edit it once more.

[try67 · Accepted solution]

Signing locks the file and prevents changing it. You need to clear the signature field first, then save the file and possibly close and then re-open it, and then you'd be able to edit it once more.

[AnandSri · Accepted solution]

Hello Olivia!

I hope you are doing well. Have you tried the suggestions from our community product expert? 

Ensure the PDF contains interactive form fields. Open the PDF, go to itTools > Prepare Form, and check if the fields are editable. See this article for more information: How to make a PDF form fillable | Adobe Acrobat DC

Verify that the security settings allow form filling. Go to File > Properties > Security and ensure form filling is permitted. Please ensure you have the latest version of Acrobat installed on the machine: 25.001.2043x Optional update, Mar 19, 2025. Check for any pending updates from the Menu > help > check for updates, install the updates, restart the app and the machine, and check. For more information, see this: https://adobe.ly/4iZTGoE

For testing purposes, Disable Enhanced Security: Go to Menu > Preferences > Security (Enhanced) and disable Enhanced Security and Protected View. Restart Acrobat. Please enable the security settings after testing.

Let us know how it goes.

Thanks,

Anand Sri.