What does Bates Numbering do?

It stamps a unique sequential identifier on every page of your PDF. The identifier consists of an optional prefix, a zero-padded number, and an optional suffix. Used primarily in legal and regulatory contexts.

Is my PDF uploaded to a server?

No. Bates numbering runs entirely in your browser. Your documents never leave your device.

Can I continue numbering from a previous document?

Yes. Set the start number to continue the sequence from where the previous document left off.

What format does the Bates number use?

Prefix + zero-padded number + suffix. For example, with prefix “ABC”, 6 digits, start at 1, suffix “-EX”: the first page reads ABC000001-EX.

Can I adjust the position and size?

Nine position options from top-left to bottom-right. Font size and margin from page edges are both configurable.

Does it work with password-protected PDFs?

Yes. Enter the password when prompted. Decryption happens locally.

Can I Bates-number multiple files at once?

Yes. Batch mode applies the same configuration to all files. Note that each file starts its own sequence from the configured start number.

Bates-Nummerierung

Fügen Sie fortlaufende Bates-Nummern für juristische Dokumente hinzu.

1. Select PDF

Select a PDF file from your device. All processing happens locally in your browser.

2. Configure Bates stamp

Set prefix, start number, digit count, suffix, and position.

3. Download

Get your PDF with sequential Bates numbers on every page.

About Bates Numbering

What Is Bates Numbering?

Bates numbering is a method of indexing legal documents for identification and retrieval. Each page gets a unique sequential identifier — typically a prefix, a zero-padded number, and optionally a suffix. The standard format looks something like ABC000001 or CASE-001234-EX.

OxygenPDF stamps Bates numbers directly onto your PDF pages. You configure the prefix, suffix, starting number, digit count, position, font size, and margin. Everything runs in your browser.

Who Uses Bates Numbering

Bates numbering is a requirement in legal proceedings and regulated industries where every page of every document must be uniquely identifiable.

Litigation & Discovery

Court rules require Bates-stamped documents for discovery productions. Every page gets a unique number so attorneys can reference specific pages in motions and depositions.

Regulatory Compliance

Government agencies and regulators expect sequentially numbered pages in submissions. Bates numbers create an audit trail.

Document Management

Large document sets become navigable with Bates numbers. Each page has a permanent reference that doesn’t change if documents are reorganized.

Archival & Records

Medical records, financial audits, and insurance claims benefit from Bates numbering for traceability and cross-referencing.

Configuration Options

Prefix and suffix are optional text that bookend the number. Digit count controls zero-padding — set it to 6 and page 1 becomes 000001. The start number lets you continue a sequence from a previous document.

Nine position options place the Bates number wherever it’s needed. Font size and margin are adjustable. The preview updates in real time as you change settings.

How It Compares

Bates numbering is primarily a legal tool. Most PDF editors treat it as a premium feature.

Funktion	Adobe Acrobat	Foxit
Custom prefix and suffix
Configurable digit padding
Nine position options
Custom start number
Batch processing	Desktop only	Desktop only
No file upload required	Desktop only	Desktop only
Free to use

Your Legal Documents Stay Private

Legal documents are exactly the kind of files you should never upload to a random website. Discovery productions contain privileged communications, sensitive financial data, and personal information.

OxygenPDF handles Bates numbering entirely in your browser. Your documents stay on your device. The numbered output downloads locally. Nothing passes through a server.