Disable "Always create a backup file"

In Word for Mac, open Word > Preferences > Save, clear Always create backup copy, and then close Preferences.^1^

This is a Word-specific setting, not a macOS System Settings option. It prevents Word from creating a separate backup copy whenever you save.

Related settings

• AutoSave is separate: it continually saves supported files stored on OneDrive or SharePoint. To disable it by default, go to Word > Preferences > Save and clear Turn on AutoSave by default.^2^
• AutoRecover is also separate: it periodically stores recovery information in case Word or macOS crashes. Disabling backup copies does not require disabling AutoRecover.^3^

Existing backup files are not removed when the setting is disabled; delete them separately only after confirming that the original documents are intact.

References

1. How do I cancel the Back Up document folder for every document I create ...
2. [macOS](https://support.microsoft.com/office/collab-files/what-is-autosave)
3. Change save frequency and where Word AutoRecovery files are stored