What's a Bates number?

A unique identifier (typically a prefix + sequential number like ABC-000001) stamped on every page of a legal document, used for discovery, court filings, and case management.

Can I set a custom prefix and start number?

Yes. Pick any prefix (e.g. CASE-, EXHIBIT-) and any starting number. Leading zeros are configurable (3-7 digits).

Can I number across multiple PDFs?

The current version stamps a single PDF at a time. Drop them one after another and the start-number persists across runs.

Will it cover existing content?

Pick a corner that's clear in your documents (usually bottom-right). Adjust position and color so it doesn't overlap.

Bates Numbering for PDFs (Free)

Add Bates stamps to PDFs for legal discovery — sequential numbering with a custom prefix on every page. Configurable position, leading zeros, range support.

Drop your files

or click to browse from your computer

Up to 100 MBFiles stay in your browser

How to bates numbering

Three steps. Start to finish in under a minute.

Upload your PDF

Drop the legal PDF that needs Bates stamps.

Set prefix, start number, position

Type a prefix (e.g. CASE-), starting number, leading zeros, and corner position.

Save the stamped PDF

Download. Each page now carries its unique Bates ID.

Why LovedPDF

Why use LovedPDF for bates numbering

Built for legal workflows

Customizable prefix, leading zeros, range — matches what discovery requires.

100% private

Confidential case documents stay on your device. We never see them.

Pixel-perfect placement

Configurable position and font size keep the stamp out of the document content.

Frequently asked questions

Add Page Numbers

Number pages in a PDF

Add Stamp to PDF

Add a stamp like APPROVED

Add Watermark

Add a watermark to PDF

Merge PDF

Combine PDFs into one file