Troubleshooting PDF Forms

If you cannot open, view, or print a PDF form from our website, the steps below will help resolve the most common issues across all devices and browsers.

1. Always download the form before filling it out
   Some PDF forms may appear to open in your browser, but forms filled out inside a browser may not save correctly, and information can be lost.
   • To avoid data loss:
     • Download the PDF to your device
     • Open it directly in Adobe Acrobat Reader (free)
     • Save your completed form from Adobe Reader
2. If a “Please wait…”, a cusom IDOR instructional page, or a blank page appears
   This message appears when a browser cannot display advanced PDF features.
   • To fix this:
     • Download the PDF to your device
     • Open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader
     • If the file still will not open, update Adobe Reader to the latest version
       
3. The PDF will not open or shows an error
   • Try the following steps:
     1. Clear your browser cache
     2. Try a different browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari)
     3. Ensure your Adobe Reader is up to date
     4. Download the file instead of opening it in the browser
     5. If you still cannot open the file, the PDF may have been corrupted during download. Try downloading it again.
4. Fillable form buttons or fields do not work
   Some advanced features such as expandable fields, add row buttons, or signature tools require Adobe Reader.
   • To fix this:
     • Download the form
     • Open it in Adobe Reader (not in your browser, phone viewer, or preview app)
     • Update Adobe Reader if features still do not appear
5. Printing problems (blank pages, missing data, cut off text)
   • If your printed form is missing information:
     • Open the form in Adobe Reader
     • Select File > Print
     • Choose Print as Image (found under “Advanced” in the print dialog)
     • Ensure your printer drivers are up to date
     • This resolves most printing issues.
6. Mobile device issues
   Mobile browsers and built in PDF viewers often cannot display fillable forms correctly.
   • If you are using a phone or tablet:
     • Download the PDF
     • Open it in the Adobe Acrobat Reader mobile app (free in app stores)
     • Avoid filling out forms inside the browser or inside your device’s default viewer
7. Still need help?
   If you continue to experience issues with a PDF form, contact: REV.WebServices@Illinois.gov
   • Please include:
     • The form name or number
     • Your device type (Windows, macOS, iPhone, Android, etc.)
     • The browser you are using
     • A brief description of the issue