Error merge/combine files ( one is a signed pdf )

1. Open the signed pdf in Adobe.
2. Open print dialogue (Ctrl+p)
3. Change the printer to "Microsoft Print to PDF" then print.
4. The newly created PDF will have the signatures and will behave as a normal pdf for combine/merge activities.

Note: This approach converts a signed document to a standard pdf. The result displays the signature information but the underlying digital signature is lost. In my case the original signers understand the distinction.

Creating a summary file is my goal. I combine a variety of digitally signed, along with other related, documentation into a single summary pdf. The original, digitally signed documents, are stored for future reference. I am increasingly convinced that it is not possible to combine digitally signed documents into a single, summary pdf, while maintaining the underlying digital signatures.

Users needing summary packets will benefit from my suggested approach. Keep in mind that my my approach remains "legally valid" to the extent that the original digitally signed documents are available on demand.

Hi There,

Thanks for reaching out. As described above you are getting the error while combining the signed PDF, correct?

If a PDF is signed using a digital ID or certificate, it's locked to prevent changes to the document. Generally, the PDF is locked for editing. If you're the only one signer, you can remove the signature and then work on the document or edit the source document.

To remove your signature, right-click the signature and then choose Clear Signature.

If you got a signed PDF, you can request the signer to remove the signature and share the PDF or send an unsigned copy of the PDF.

I hope this will help

Regards,

Amal