Productivity

Admin: how to save time with PDFSmart

June 5, 2025

Admin: how to save time with PDFSmart

Admin: how to save time with PDFSmart

With the increasing digitalisation of public services, most administrative procedures are now handled online. Whether you're applying for Universal Credit, submitting documents to HMRC, contacting Jobcentre Plus, or dealing with the Home Office, nearly all supporting documents must be provided in PDF format.

But who hasn't wasted a ridiculous amount of time merging multiple documents, compressing a file that's too large for an online form, or printing, signing, and scanning a form just to send it back?

We've got the solution to save you time! PDFSmart is the all-in-one tool for streamlining these tasks and making your day-to-day PDF document management faster and more secure. With fast online tools, you can save time, reduce errors, and protect your documents in just a few clicks.

1. Merge all your PDF documents into a single file

Administrative processes often require several documents: a copy of your ID, a tax summary, proof of address, bank details, benefit entitlement letters, etc. But many portals – such as those for Universal Credit or Home Office visa applications – only allow you to upload a single file per form.

With PDFSmart's merge feature, you can combine all your PDF documents into one clean, structured file.

Example: for a housing support application, you can combine your ID, proof of income, Universal Credit award letter, and tenancy agreement into one PDF, ready to submit.

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2. Compress your PDF files for easy uploading

Many official platforms – including those for HMRC, the NHS, and the Home Office – have strict file size limits. A document that's too large may simply be rejected.

With PDFSmart's compression tool, you can reduce the file size without sacrificing quality or readability.

This is ideal when you've scanned paper documents, assembled several files, or need to email a bundle of documents securely.

3. Modify, correct or complete a PDF without reprinting it

Downloaded an official PDF form but can't fill it out? Spotted a typo and don’t want to start over?

With PDFSmart’s editing tool, you can easily update your PDF online – add text, correct a date, complete a form field…

Need a more editable format? Convert your file to Word with one click using our PDF to Word converter.

Example: update a rental agreement, fill in a statutory declaration, or fix an error on your proof of address.

4. Sign a PDF online in seconds

More and more processes require a signature – whether it's a contract, lease, declaration, or official form.

With PDFSmart’s online signing tool, you can sign directly in your browser without the need to print or scan anything.

Perfect for: signing a childcare declaration, tenancy agreement, Jobcentre Plus form, or benefit claim.

5. Protect sensitive documents with a password

Some documents contain personal or sensitive data – your National Insurance number, income details, bank information, etc. To keep your files secure, PDFSmart lets you:

  • Lock access to the file with a password
  • Restrict printing or editing
  • Ensure secure delivery by email or upload

Example: Protect a confidential document you're sending to Jobcentre Plus or a government department.

In a nutshell

With PDFSmart, your PDFs are ready for any admin task – whether you're dealing with Universal Credit, tax documents, social security, the Home Office, or an employer. Save time while ensuring your documents are compliant, secure and professionally prepared.

Try PDFSmart now to manage your PDFs online – simply, quickly, and with no software to install.