Why email rejects your PDF
Gmail blocks attachments above about 25 MB, but many HR portals cap at 2–5 MB. A single color scan can exceed that before you add a cover letter. Compress PDF targets the size limit while keeping body text readable.
Basic mode for most email sends
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Compress PDF
Compression level
RecommendedMaximumMinimum
File: report-2026.pdf · 18.4 MBUpload the file and start with Basic — it balances size and clarity for contracts and forms. Use lighter settings when the PDF has fine charts; switch to Strong only when the portal still rejects the file.
Preview before you hit Send
Check the before/after size badge, then open the preview and zoom into footnotes and signatures. If anything looks soft, step down from Strong to Basic before attaching.
Still over the limit?
Some forms cap page count too. Remove appendices with Remove Pages, compress each part, then Merge PDF only the sections you must submit.
Try the tool
Open Compress PDF — processing runs in your browser. For the full step-by-step walkthrough, see our how-to compress guide. For attachment-specific limits, use Compress PDF for Email, Gmail, or invoice / bank statement guides when those are the documents you are sending.