Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions we hear most often. Don't see yours? Get in touch and we'll help.

The basics

What is PDFFlex?

PDFFlex is a SaaS platform that turns payroll, accounting, and HR PDFs into structured CSV data. It uses purpose-built maps for each payroll provider so you don't have to write parsers, regex, or one-off scripts. A free PDF Toolkit is included with every account for one-off PDF edits.

Do I need an account to use it?

Yes. Every action — processing a file with a map and using the PDF Toolkit — requires a signed-in PDFFlex account. New accounts include a small number of free trial jobs so you can try the platform before committing to a plan.

What file types can I upload?

It depends on the map. Each map declares its Input Types (typically PDF, CSV, or Excel) and you'll see those tags in Step 1 of the wizard. The PDF Toolkit only accepts PDFs.

Maps, toolkits, and clients

What's the difference between a map and the PDF Toolkit?

Maps are full transformations — you upload a source file (like a payroll export), PDFFlex applies a tested recipe for that provider, and you download structured output. Maps live behind paid plans (with trial jobs available to start).

The PDF Toolkit is a free set of one-off PDF operations (rotate, merge, watermark, etc.) that any signed-in user can run. See the full list in PDF Toolkit.

Why does the wizard ask me to pick a client?

Clients drive how employees are tracked and how each job is billed. Picking the right client prevents duplicate employee charges across jobs. You can create a new client inline during the wizard if the right one doesn't exist yet, or manage them ahead of time on the Clients page.

A map is locked in my dropdown. How do I unlock it?

Locked maps aren't included in your current plan. Upgrade from the pricing page to unlock the map you need, or contact sales if you're not sure which bundle is right for your team.

Data and privacy

How long do my files stay on your servers?

Source files and output bundles for jobs are retained only as long as needed to complete and deliver the job; PDF Toolkit files live in temporary storage and are cleaned up automatically. For full details, see the Privacy Policy.

Is my data used to train AI models?

No. Per the Terms of Service, PDFFlex does not use uploaded documents to train AI models, and we don't sell or share your data beyond what's needed to operate the service.

Billing and account

How am I billed?

PDFFlex offers two models: Pay As You Go (billed per unique employee processed) and the Flex Plan (a monthly platform fee plus pre-purchased employee batches). See the pricing page for current rates.

How do I upgrade, downgrade, or cancel?

Open Billing from the user dropdown in the top-right. From there you can switch plans, view invoices, or cancel. Cancellation takes effect at the end of the current billing period.

I think I was charged in error.

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