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How to Fix Copilot Plus Missing in Microsoft 365 Word
Question details
The user purchased a Copilot Plus subscription, but the feature does not appear in Microsoft 365 Word or the add-ins list.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 Word
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to access and use the purchased Copilot Plus features within the desktop version of Microsoft Word.
- Observed behavior
- Copilot is completely missing from the Word interface and the add-ins list, despite the subscription showing as active in the account license information. Updating Windows and restarting the computer did not resolve it.
Verify that you are signed into Microsoft Word with the exact Microsoft account associated with your active Copilot Plus subscription by checking File > Account.
Uninstall and Reinstall Microsoft 365
An outdated or corrupted Office installation can prevent Copilot from displaying correctly. A fresh installation is the most effective fix.
Copilot integration requires the latest Microsoft 365 components. If the local Office installation files are damaged or not syncing properly with your subscription status, a clean reinstall will force the software to recognize your new Copilot Plus license.
Open the Windows Control Panel, navigate to 'Programs and Features', locate Microsoft 365 in the list, and select 'Uninstall'.
Open your web browser and sign in to the Microsoft Account Services and subscriptions page using the account that owns the Copilot Plus subscription.
Locate your active Microsoft 365 subscription on the dashboard and click 'Install' to download the latest setup file to your computer.
Run the downloaded installer. Once finished, open Microsoft Word, navigate to 'File' > 'Account', click 'Update Options', and select 'Update Now' to ensure all features, including Copilot, are fully loaded.
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- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Copilot icon missing even after reinstalling Microsoft 365?
If the Copilot icon is still missing, ensure your Office license is properly refreshed. Go to File > Account in Word and click 'Update License'. Also, verify that your default editing language is set to a supported language for Copilot (such as English) in the Office language preferences.
Do I need a separate app to use Copilot Plus in Word?
No, Copilot is integrated directly into Microsoft 365 desktop apps. Once your subscription is active and the software is properly updated, it will automatically appear in the ribbon.
How can I verify that my Copilot Plus subscription is active?
Log in to your Microsoft account online, navigate to 'Services & subscriptions', and check the active services list. Your Copilot Plus or Copilot Pro subscription should be listed with an active status.
Can a conflicting add-in cause Copilot to disappear?
Yes, sometimes third-party COM add-ins can interfere with native features. You can test this by launching Word in Safe Mode (hold the Ctrl key while clicking the Word shortcut) to see if the Copilot icon appears.
