Today when I clicked on the Excel icon I received an error message The application Microsoft Excel can't be opened. I can open Word. Can someone please advise what I should do?

Andrew Fitzgibbons 25 Reputation points
2025-10-31T05:12:34.2266667+00:00

I have Microsoft Office on my MacBook Air. It was purchased in 2023.

I use Microsoft Excel every day. I last used it yesterday.

I am unable to open Excel today. When I click on the Icon or attempt to open a recent Excel workbook I get the error message The application Microsoft Excel can't be opened.

I am able to open Microsoft Word.

I reinstalled the the Microsoft package but still unable to open Excel.

Can anyone help with advice on what I should do?

Thanks

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For home | MacOS
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Answer accepted by question author
GsN5034 - IA 79,830 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-10-31T06:03:28.3+00:00

Hello, thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A.

Go to Applications > Finder, then drag the Excel application to the trash to uninstall it from your Mac.

Then, click the link below to download and install the latest version of the Excel app on your Mac.

https://officecdn.microsoft.com/pr/C1297A47-86C4-4C1F-97FA-950631F94777/MacAutoupdate/Microsoft_Excel_16.101.25100321_Updater.pkg

If you're still having issues, run a DISK Check utility scan on your Mac. (Repair a Mac storage device with Disk Utility)

https://support.apple.com/en-us/102611

Standard Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.'

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