> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.pipefile.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.pipefile.com/for-your-clients/scan-with-your-phone.md).

# Scan documents with your phone

For people who received a request link — use your phone's camera to turn paper documents into a PDF and upload it.

If you only have a paper copy of a document, you can scan it with your phone's camera right on the request page. You don't need a scanner or a separate app. Your pages become one PDF, ready to upload.

## Scan a document

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open the item

Open your request link on your phone and go to the checklist item you want to send.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Tap Scan Document

Under the upload box, tap **Scan Document**. If your browser asks to use your camera, allow it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Capture each page

Lay the page flat on a contrasting surface in good light and hold your phone over it. The scanner finds the edges of the page and takes the picture for you. Check the preview:

* Tap the green check mark to keep the page.
* Tap the red **X** to retake it.

Repeat for each page. The number of pages you've kept shows at the top.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Tap Done

Tap **Done** at the top of the scanner. Pipefile combines your pages into one PDF and adds it to your upload list. The file is named after the checklist item.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Upload

Tap **Upload** to send it, the same as any other file.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Tips for a clear scan

* Use bright, even light and avoid shadows across the page.
* Put the page on a darker surface so the scanner can find its edges.
* Hold the phone steady and keep the whole page in view.
* If the scanner doesn't take a picture, the image may be too blurry or dark. Move closer, steady the phone or add light.

## If something goes wrong

* **Scan Document is missing or greyed out.** Scanning isn't available for this request. Tap the upload box instead. On most phones you can take a photo or choose one from your library from there.
* **The camera doesn't start.** Check that your browser is allowed to use the camera in your phone's settings, then close the scanner and tap **Scan Document** again. If you see "Scanner error", tap **Retry**.
* **I want to stop.** Tap the close icon at the top, then **Yes, Leave**. Closing the scanner discards any pages you haven't finished with **Done**.

The scanner also works with a computer's webcam, but a phone camera gives clearer results.

## Related

* [Upload documents to a request](/for-your-clients/upload-documents.md)
* [Recipient FAQ](/for-your-clients/recipient-faq.md)


---

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