Certain versions of Adobe Acrobat and other PDF editing software allow the user to save a fillable form after data has been entered, and to edit that information at a future date. If a form with saved data is filed electronically (through CM/ECF) without first securing the electronic file by "flattening" it, the data entered can be easily removed or altered by an unauthorized third party.
Attorneys and parties using the pdf-fillable versions of the official bankruptcy forms from www.uscourts.gov should flatten the pdf file before filing it with the bankruptcy court through CM/ECF. To "flatten" the file, "print" the form to PDF (using the print dialogue box) and file the resulting document.
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Follow the steps below to “flatten” a completed PDF fillable form:
- Open fillable form.
- Add appropriate data.
- Select File.
- Select Print.
- Select the PDF printer. (The Adobe PDF printer is installed automatically with Adobe Acrobat. Numerous free PDF printer drivers are available for download from the Internet.)
- Select OK.
- Specify location to save the printed, “flattened” version of the form.
- Select Save.
- File the “flattened” form in CM/ECF.