Last updated: October 2026
What is Bates numbering?
Short answer: Bates numbering assigns a unique sequential ID — like ACME000001, ACME000002, ACME000003 — to every page of a document set, so each page can be cited and tracked unambiguously. It is standard practice in legal discovery and document production. The stamper above does it for free, in your browser, with your choice of prefix, start number and position.
How to Bates-stamp a PDF
1. Upload your PDF. Tap the dropzone (or drag a file onto it). The tool reads the page count and confirms it's ready — your file never leaves your device.
2. Set the stamp format. Enter a prefix such as your client or matter code (leave it blank for numbers only), choose the start number, and set the padding — 6 digits turns page 1 into ACME000001.
3. Pick the position. Six options cover the standard placements: top or bottom of the page, left, center or right. Bottom-right is the most common convention for Bates stamps.
4. Stamp & download. Each page gets the next sequential number. Your original PDF is untouched — you download a new stamped copy named yourfile-bates.pdf.
Bates stamp conventions
Once stamped, treat the numbered copy as the production set — cite page numbers from it, not from the unnumbered original.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bates numbering?
Bates numbering is a method of assigning a unique sequential identifier — such as ACME000001, ACME000002 — to each page of a document set. It is standard practice in legal discovery and document production so every page can be cited and tracked unambiguously. (
History of Bates numbering on Wikipedia)
Is Bates numbering permanent?
Yes, once stamped into the PDF the numbers are part of the document content and travel with the file when it is shared or printed. This tool draws the numbers onto each page permanently.
Does this tool change my original PDF?
No. Your original file is never modified — the tool creates a brand-new stamped copy that you download, leaving the source PDF exactly as it was.
Is my document private? Where does it get uploaded?
Nowhere. Everything happens locally in your browser with JavaScript — your PDF is never uploaded to a server, stored, or seen by anyone. You can even disconnect from the internet after the page loads.
Can I customize the stamp format?
Yes. Set any text prefix (or leave it blank for numbers only), the starting number, the zero-padding (e.g. 6 digits gives ACME000001), the font size, and one of six page positions — top or bottom, left, center or right.
Will it work on a password-protected PDF?
No — encrypted PDFs cannot be stamped. Remove the password in your PDF reader first (usually via Print to PDF), then upload the unlocked copy.
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