What is a Bates number?
A sequential identifier stamped on each page, usually with a case or party prefix, so any page in a large production can be cited exactly. It is standard practice in legal discovery.
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Bates Number PDF
Bates numbering applies a unique sequential identifier to every page, which is the standard way legal, court and audit documents are referenced. Set a prefix, a starting number, zero padding and a position, and every page is stamped consistently. It is free, needs no account, and adds no watermark to your result.
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Included in this tool
Sequential numberingPrefix/suffixZero paddingPosition control
When you need this
What people use it for.
Preparing a document set for litigation discovery or disclosure
Numbering an evidence bundle so pages can be cited unambiguously
Stamping audit or compliance records with a traceable reference
How it works
What happens to your file.
Each page is stamped with the next identifier in the sequence, built from your prefix, suffix, start value and padding width, drawn at the corner position you choose. Existing page content is left as it is.
Where it stops: Numbering runs per job, so if you need one continuous sequence across several files, note the last number used and set it as the start value for the next batch.
What this tool includes
Everything you need, without a paywall.
Sequential numbering
Prefix/suffix
Zero padding
Position control
Questions
Common questions.
Can I continue numbering across several PDFs?
Yes. Set the start value of each job to one past the last number used, or merge the documents first and number the merged file in one pass.
Will the stamp cover my page content?
Choose a corner position with a margin. If your pages are dense to the edge, add margins first so the stamp has clear space.
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