I can't edit a document
Why a document is read-only and how to make changes: join the document, check the stage, or check whether it's an uploaded PDF.
Written By Sebastian
Last updated About 4 hours ago
If you can't type in a document, change a party or run an action, one of these reasons is almost always behind it. Go through them in order.
Available on all plans
1. You haven't joined the document
If you see a blue bar saying Join document at the top, you can see the document but aren't one of its users yet. Click Join document. You can then edit, run the AI analysis and change parties.
This happens when you see a document through your team or role but weren't added to it personally.
2. The document is in preview
Documents open in preview. Click Edit in the document header to switch to edit mode.
3. The stage doesn't allow edits
See Document stages explained.
4. It's an uploaded PDF
The text of an uploaded PDF can't be edited. For a PDF prepared for signing, you can drag dynamic fields and signature blocks onto the page and use the placement aid. You can also add comments and metadata. To change the text, edit the original file and upload it as a new revision, or create the document from a Word file instead. See Revisions and document comparison.
5. Your role doesn't allow it
Some actions depend on your role. For example, only Owners and Admins can delete documents or change account settings, while Managers can upload and edit Word documents and create and edit documents from scratch. Managers can fill dynamic fields in template-based documents, but cannot edit their contract text. See User roles and permissions.
6. The template is pre-signed
Documents from a pre-signed template are locked except for dynamic field values and settings. See Pre-sign templates.
Still stuck?
Reload the page. If someone else has the document open in edit mode, wait until they're done. If nothing helps, contact support and include the document's link.
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