Why a file will not get small enough, and what to do
When a tool says it could not reach your limit, here are the fixes that usually work.
Why it happens
A large, detailed image holds a lot of information. Lowering quality only helps up to a point. Below that point the tool stops and tells you the limit was not reached.
Make the dimensions smaller
Tick Resize to the dimensions above in the Document Upload Optimizer, or use the Image Resizer, and try again. Fewer pixels means a smaller file.
Photograph, don't scan at high resolution
A phone photo of a document at a normal distance is usually enough. Very high-resolution scans are far larger than most forms need.
Check the limit
Make sure you typed KB, not MB. If the limit is very small, ask the organisation whether a larger file is accepted.
PDFs
The Document Upload Optimizer works on images only. PDF support is planned for later.
Last reviewed: 8 November 2026. Requirements set by portals and organisations can change; check the current rules before you submit.