> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://todayfixtech.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # How to Fix Excel Autosave Not Working: Quick Solutions - URL: https://todayfixtech.com/excel-autosave-not-working/ - Published: 2026-10-14T06:32:45.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-14T06:32:45.000Z - Author: Md Sojib Mia - Tags: Microsoft, Troubleshooting If Excel's autosave isn't working, it can lead to anxiety about losing important data. This issue may stem from incorrect settings, file type incompatibility, or conflicts with add-ins. Fortunately, you can troubleshoot and resolve the problem with a few straightforward steps. ## What causes Excel autosave to stop working? Autosave can fail for several reasons. Here are some common causes: - **File Type**: Autosave is primarily supported for files saved in OneDrive, SharePoint, or in the Excel format (.xlsx). If you're using older formats like .xls, autosave may not function. - **Settings**: Autosave settings might be disabled, possibly due to software updates or changes made by someone else. - **Conflicts with Add-ins**: Some Excel add-ins can interfere with autosave functionality, causing unexpected behavior. - **Software Updates**: An outdated version of Excel may have bugs affecting autosave. Keeping your software updated is essential. ## Before you start This [guide applies to Microsoft](https://todayfixtech.com/fix-onedrive-slow-performance/) Excel versions that support autosave, including Excel for Microsoft 365\. Ensure you have the necessary permissions to modify settings. It's also a good idea to back up your work to prevent data loss while troubleshooting. ## Is autosave enabled in your Excel settings? To check if autosave is enabled: 1. Open Excel and go to the **File** tab. 2. Click on **Options**. 3. In the Excel Options window, select **Save** from the left panel. 4. Ensure that the checkbox for **AutoSave OneDrive and SharePoint Online files by default on Excel** is checked. 5. Make sure the **Save AutoRecover information every** box is filled in with a duration (e.g., 10 minutes). If these options are not set, adjust them accordingly to enable autosave. ![A close-up of the Excel options menu with the autosave settings highlighted.](https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Excel%20options%20menu%20showing%20autosave%20settings&w=624&h=352&c=7) ## How to fix Excel autosave issues? If autosave is enabled but still not functioning, follow these troubleshooting steps: 1. **Check OneDrive Connection**: Ensure you are logged into your OneDrive account in Excel. If not: - Go to the **File** tab, click on **Account**, and log in under **User Information**. 2. **Disable Add-ins**: Conflicting add-ins may disrupt autosave. To disable them: - Go to **File** \> **Options** \> **Add-ins**. - At the bottom of the window, select **COM Add-ins** from the drop-down and click **Go**. - Uncheck any add-ins you suspect may be causing the issue, then click **OK**. 3. **Repair Office**: If the problem persists, you might need to repair Office: - Open Control Panel and select **Programs and Features**. - Right-click on Microsoft Office and select **Change**. - Choose **Quick Repair** and follow the prompts. ## How to verify that autosave is working again? To confirm that autosave is functioning: 1. Make a small change in an open Excel file. 2. Wait a few minutes to see if the file automatically saves — you should see a message in the toolbar indicating that autosave is on. 3. Close Excel and reopen the file to check if your recent changes are saved. If your changes are present, autosave is working as expected. ## What to do if you lose unsaved work? If autosave is off and you lose unsaved work, try the following options: - **Check for AutoRecover files**: Excel may have created temporary files: - Open Excel and go to **File** \> **Open** \> **Recent**. - Look for a section labeled **Recover Unsaved Workbooks** at the bottom of the list. - **Search for temporary files**: You can manually search for temporary Excel files: - Navigate to the folder where your original file was saved and look for files with a .tmp extension. - **Use Document Recovery**: If Excel crashes, it might display the Document Recovery pane upon reopening. Check here for any recovered files. ## Conclusion After troubleshooting and applying the necessary fixes, monitor Excel's autosave feature to ensure it continues to work properly. Regularly saving your work and checking your settings can help prevent future issues. If problems persist, [consider contacting Microsoft support](https://todayfixtech.com/microsoft-365-tips-tricks/) for further assistance. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Why is my Excel autosave not saving changes? Your autosave might not be saving changes due to incorrect settings, file type issues, or conflicts with add-ins. ### Can I recover lost data if autosave is off? Yes, you can check for AutoRecover files or temporary files that Excel may have saved. ### Does autosave work with .xls files? No, autosave primarily works with .xlsx files or files saved in OneDrive or SharePoint. ### How often does Excel autosave? Excel autosaves based on the interval set in the options, usually every 10 minutes, but this can be adjusted.