How to require an email address to download any PDF file

This is a problem I recently faced. I wanted a quick and easy way to share PDF files for users and in exchange ask for their email address. I’m looking to collect email addresses of potential customers and build my email list.

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After researching my options here are some of the best options to collect email addresses.

The first consideration is if you use Wordpress or not. If your website is built using Wordpress then I would definitely recommend using a plugin such as WPForms or Gravity Forms.

I’ll first cover how to set up an email form on Wordpress, then I’ll cover non-wordpress options.

Step 1: Choose your PDF form plugin (Wordpress only)

You’ll first need to upload your PDF as a file in the admin are of your wordpress website. Next you’ll need to install a form plugin, I recommend either of the following:

Step 2: Create a new form to capture emails

Once installed, follow the instructions to build a new form specifically for collecting email addresses. You’ll need to follow the form fields.

Form Fields: Usually just “Name” and “Email.”
Messaging: A short note like, “Enter your email for instant access to PDF Title.”
Confirmation: Decide what happens after submission (redirect to a thank-you page or send an automated email with the PDF link).

Step 3: Provide the PDF link (after form submission)

Email Delivery: I often prefer sending a link via email. It helps confirm their address and boosts my open rates.
Direct Link on Confirmation Page: Alternatively, you can redirect to a “thank you” page where the PDF is accessible immediately.

If You Don’t Use WordPress

Let’s say you don’t have a WordPress site (or just don’t want to mess with plugins). Here’s a quick approach you can use with almost any email marketing service:

Sign Up for an Email Marketing Tool: Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and MailerLite all have free tiers for beginners.
Create a Landing Page: Most of these platforms offer a drag-and-drop landing page or form builder. You can quickly design a page that says, “Want the PDF? Enter your email below,” with a simple field for an email address.
Automate Delivery: In the platform’s settings, set up an automation (or “welcome email”) that sends an email to new subscribers. Include your PDF link in that email.
Host Your PDF Securely: You can host your PDF in Google Drive, Dropbox, or within the email tool itself (some services let you upload files directly). Copy that link and paste it into your automated email.
Share the Landing Page: You’ll get a unique URL for your landing page that you can share on social media, in emails, or on your website (if you have one). Visitors who land there will submit their email address and automatically get your PDF in their inbox.

Pro Tip: Because everything is hosted on the email service’s servers, you don’t need a separate website at all. This means you can directly link to this new landing page from social media channels or even create a QR code for the landing page link.

Wrapping It Up

Hopefully this helps you on your journey to collecting email addresses in exchange for lead magnets or PDF files. I’ve found offering a free resource such as a checklist, guide or brochure is a great way to build email lists. Just make sure the content is worth people giving their email address for.