PDF Tools FAQ
This FAQ helps you quickly understand how iHatePDF works, what happens to your files after upload, where to check limits, and what to do if processing ends in an error. It's not a legal page — it's practical help for users before and after running a tool.
If you need to solve a specific task quickly, start with the relevant tool's page. If your question is general — about security, limits, mobile use, or common errors — the answers are collected below.
Registration and mobile access
Short answers on whether an account is needed, whether you can work from a phone, and how simple the basic flow remains.
Limits and supported formats
The FAQ helps you quickly find out where to check the current limit and what determines the list of available formats.
Processing errors and retrying
If a document fails to process, start by checking the format, size, condition of the source file, and the tool you chose.
Security and file lifecycle
It's important for users to see a calm explanation of temporary processing, automatic file deletion, and when to also check the Security page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register?
No. Registration is not required for basic scenarios.
Can I use the service from a phone?
Yes. The main operations are available in a mobile browser. On a small screen it's especially important to check the file size and final result beforehand.
Which file formats are supported for upload?
The list of formats depends on the tool. Most tools accept PDF. Converters accept JPG, PNG, HEIC, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and HTML. The exact list of formats is shown in the upload interface.
Can I upload several files at once?
It depends on the tool. Merge PDF and building a PDF from images support batch upload. Other tools accept a single file.
How long does it take to process a file?
Most operations finish within a few seconds. Heavy scans, OCR, and Office format conversions can take longer.
Where can I check the current limits?
The general logic behind the restrictions is described on the Limits page, but it's best to check the exact conditions directly in the upload interface of the tool you're using.
What should I do if my file doesn't meet the size limit?
Check the current limit in the upload interface. If the file exceeds it, split the PDF, compress it, or remove unnecessary pages.
Is there a limit on the number of pages?
Yes, the page limit depends on the tool. If your document is too long, split it into parts and process them one at a time.
Is it safe to upload documents?
The service restricts file access to the scope of processing and automatically deletes data after processing completes. For sensitive documents, also read the Security and Privacy pages.
Are my files shared with third parties?
No. Files are uploaded to iHatePDF's own server infrastructure and are not shared with third-party file processing services.
Are my files used to train AI?
No. We don't read user files, include them in backups, or use them to train AI models.
What happens to files after processing?
Results remain available for a limited time after processing completes, then are deleted automatically. No action is required on your part.
Can I delete files earlier?
Yes. The interface has a "Delete files now" button that immediately removes the source files and processing results.
Are backup copies of my files kept?
No. The service does not back up user files. Once automatically deleted, files cannot be recovered.
Why didn't my file process?
The most common reasons are a corrupted source file, an unsupported format, too much data, or a temporary processing failure. First check the format, size, and the file itself, then try again.
What should I do if processing is stuck or doesn't finish?
Refresh the page and check the task status. If the task hasn't finished, retry the operation. For large files, try splitting the document into parts.
What should I do if my file won't upload?
Make sure the file format is supported, the size doesn't exceed the limit, and the file isn't corrupted or password-protected. Try a different browser if the problem persists.
Can I convert PDF to Word, Excel, or JPG?
Yes. The catalog includes PDF to Word, PDF to Excel, PDF to JPG, and other formats. For the reverse conversion — Word to PDF, Excel to PDF, JPG to PDF.
Is formatting preserved when converting PDF to Word?
It depends on the source document. Complex formatting, multi-column layouts, and tables may not convert perfectly. Always check the resulting file before using it.
Does file quality change after processing?
It depends on the tool. When compressing, converting, or repairing a file, it's always a good idea to quickly check the resulting file before sending it further.
Do I need to check the resulting file manually?
Yes, especially after compression, conversion, OCR, and repair. Open the result and make sure the text is readable, the pages are in the right order, and the file size is acceptable.
What should I include when contacting support?
Provide the page URL, the source file format, what you were trying to do, and the exact error text if one was shown in the interface.
Back to the main sections
Open the relevant page if your question relates to file size, data storage, security, or choosing a tool.