How to add a header or footer to a PDF
A header or footer that repeats on every page — a company name, a date, "Draft" or a document reference number — gives a document a more finished, professional look.
Simple repeating text
For a short line repeated on every page, Watermark PDF is the quickest route — set the text, position it at the top or bottom rather than diagonally across the middle, and apply it to the whole file at once.
More detailed headers
For a header with a logo and multiple elements, the PDF Editor lets you place text and images precisely, though this is done page by page for full control.
Combining with page numbers
If you need both a header and page numbers, add page numbers with Add Page Numbers first, then apply the header text with Watermark PDF as a second pass.
Choosing between the two approaches
A single line of repeating text — a company name, confidentiality notice, or short date stamp — is fastest with Watermark PDF positioned at the top or bottom edge rather than diagonally. A header with a logo image alongside text needs the more detailed placement control in the PDF Editor.
Matching your document's branding
For a consistent look across many documents, decide on the header style once — font, size, position — and reuse the same settings each time, rather than adjusting from scratch per document.
Keeping headers legible when printed
A header or footer that looks fine on screen can print too faintly if the colour is very light grey — test a printed page before finalising a design meant for physical distribution, since screen and print contrast can differ noticeably.
Related help articles
- How to merge multiple PDFs into one file
- How to split a PDF into separate files
- How to add page numbers to a PDF
If a document will go through several rounds of review before being finalised, hold off on adding the header or footer until the content itself is settled — otherwise you may find yourself re-adding it after each round of edits.
