macOS Monterey to install the new Microsoft 365

macOS Monterey 12.7.6 cannot install the newest Microsoft 365 builds, but it can run the last supported Office for Mac version (16.88/16.88.1) with an active Microsoft 365 subscription.

To use Microsoft 365 on macOS 12.7.6:

1. Confirm the Mac cannot be upgraded beyond Monterey. If it can be upgraded to a newer macOS, do that first, then install the current Microsoft 365 normally.
2. If stuck on 12.7.6, use the Microsoft 365 subscription only to activate an older Office for Mac build that still supports Monterey. The last version that works on macOS 12.7.6 (Monterey) is 16.88.
3. Download and install Office for Mac 16.88 from the official Office for Mac update history page, then sign in with the Microsoft 365 subscription account to activate.
4. After installing 16.88, run Help > Check for Updates once to update to the final 16.88.1 build for Outlook and PowerPoint. Automatic updates are not required because there will be no further updates for this version.

If instead the goal is specifically the newest Microsoft 365 for Mac client, that requires a newer macOS than 12.7.6; in that case, either upgrade macOS (if the hardware supports it) or use Microsoft 365 apps in a browser via the free Microsoft 365 web apps.

References:

• Office 365 won't install - Microsoft Q&A
• Office running on OS 12.7.6 - Microsoft Q&A
• Download, install, or reinstall Microsoft 365 or Office 2024 on a PC or Mac
• I have a subscription to Office 365 and want to install it on my new laptop - Microsoft Q&A