To Bates number a PDF you need a tool that stamps text on every page and increases the number as it goes. Free options handle one file; paid ones handle folders and give you more control over the stamp.
Here are three ways to do it, from a browser tool for a single PDF to offline software for a full production.
The Magic Soft free PDF Bates numbering tool runs in your browser and processes the file on your own computer, so nothing is uploaded.
It's built for one file at a time with a simple stamp. For several files or extra stamp elements, use one of the methods below.
Acrobat Pro (not the free Reader) includes Bates numbering. The menu location has moved between versions; in recent ones it's in the Edit a PDF tool under More > Bates Numbering > Add.
Acrobat works well but needs a subscription, and it doesn't keep a separate log of what was stamped.
Magic Soft PDF Bates Numbering is Windows software made for numbering documents in volume. It works offline, so privileged files never leave your machine.
Click Add Files or Add Folder, or drag PDFs onto the window. Enter passwords for protected files, or tick the option to skip them.
Choose a prefix and suffix, one of six positions, the number style (standard, Roman or alphabet), the start number and the step.
Number all pages, odd or even pages, or a range. Add a date, custom text, a signature, a confidential note or a QR code if you need them.
See the real page with the stamp on it and drag elements into place. Turn on avoid-existing-text if the footer already has text.
Choose processing options such as overwrite, open folder on completion and CSV audit log, then start. Save the settings for next time.
The demo works the same way but adds a watermark to the output, so you can test it on real files first.
| Free online tool | Acrobat Pro | PDF Bates Numbering | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Subscription | $49 one-time (launch price) |
| Files per run | One | Many | Many, including whole folders |
| Works offline | Yes, in the browser | Yes | Yes |
| Stamp extras | Prefix and number | Prefix, suffix, digits | Prefix, suffix, date, text, signature, QR code, confidential note |
| Audit log | No | No | CSV log |
One PDF: use the free online tool. Already paying for Acrobat Pro: use its built-in feature. Regular productions or folders of files: dedicated software with a preview and audit log is quicker. Numbering a large set? See batch Bates numbering.
Yes. The Magic Soft free online tool numbers one PDF at a time in your browser.
No. Bates numbering is in Acrobat Pro, not the free Reader.
No. Magic Soft PDF Bates Numbering processes files on your computer and needs no internet connection.
Yes. Enter the password when you add the file, or tell the software to skip protected files.
The software runs on Windows. A macOS version is in development. The free online tool works in any browser.
