Compress a PDF for CM/ECF – S.D.N.Y.
CM/ECF – S.D.N.Y. takes PDFs up to 10 MB. PDF Desk shrinks yours to just under it, right in this tab.
Max 10 MBPDF
Files stay on this device. Nothing is uploaded.
CM/ECF – S.D.N.Y. upload limits
| Document | Max size | Min size | Formats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Each PDF file filed in ECF Split larger files into parts (e.g. Exhibit A1, A2). Case-initiating documents emailed to the Clerk: separate PDF/A files, each ≤10 MB. | 10 MB | — |
Where this number comes from
“No single PDF file may be larger than 10.0 megabytes (10.0 mb).”
— SDNY Electronic Case Filing Rules & Instructions (July 1, 2024 edition), 2024-07-01. Checked October 2026.
PDF Desk aims at 9.7 MB, a little under the limit, because some portals count 1 KB as 1,000 bytes.
If the file will not get small enough
Scan in black and white at 150 DPI instead of colour. Remove blank and duplicate pages with Delete pages. If the portal allows several files, cut the PDF with Split PDF and upload the parts.
Other portals in United States
Limits of other portals
Questions
What is the maximum PDF size for CM/ECF – S.D.N.Y.?
Each PDF file filed in ECF: 10 MB. Source: transcripts.nysd.uscourts.gov, checked October 2026.
CM/ECF – S.D.N.Y. still rejects my PDF. Why?
Check that it is not password-protected, that the file name has no special characters, and that it is a few percent under the limit — some portals count 1 KB as 1,000 bytes.
Are my PDFs uploaded?
No. PDF Desk opens and writes the file with JavaScript inside your browser tab. Nothing is sent to a server, so it is safe for contracts, IDs and bank statements.