Document Editing Problems

Fix Excel Comments Cannot Mention People in the Desktop App

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to use the @mention feature in comments within the Excel for Windows desktop application, although the feature functions correctly in Excel for the web.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Collaborating with team members and trying to tag them using @mentions in Excel desktop comments.
Observed behavior: The @mention functionality fails or does not appear in the desktop app, despite working perfectly in the web version.

Before you start

Ensure your workbook is saved to a cloud location like OneDrive or SharePoint, as @mentions in modern comments require cloud synchronization to function properly.

Solution 1Recommended

Ensure Workbook is Cloud-Saved and Uses Modern Comments

The @mention feature requires the workbook to be stored in OneDrive or SharePoint and actively use the modern comments system.

If your file is saved locally on your hard drive, the desktop app cannot access your organization's directory to tag users. Moving it to the cloud activates collaborative features.

Check Cloud Status

Look at the top-left corner of the Excel window to confirm AutoSave is toggled on, which indicates the file is successfully synced to OneDrive or SharePoint.

Save to Cloud

If AutoSave is off, go to 'File' > 'Save As' and select your connected OneDrive or SharePoint account to save the file.

Insert a Modern Comment

Right-click the cell where you want to tag someone and select 'New Comment' (do not select 'New Note'). Type '@' followed by their name to mention them.

Modern Comments vs. Notes: In Excel, traditional 'Notes' do not support @mentions. You must use 'Comments' to start a threaded conversation and tag team members.

Solution 2

Update Microsoft 365 and Re-authenticate Your Account

Outdated software or an expired login session can prevent the desktop app from fetching your organization's directory for @mentions.

Solution 3

Run an Office Online Repair

If mentions work on the web but not on desktop, repairing the Office installation can resolve underlying application corruption or glitches.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Collaboration

If Microsoft Excel continues to experience desktop app syncing or commenting issues, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for viewing, editing, and collaborating on spreadsheets without the heavy resource demands.

1. Download WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office for free from the official website.
2. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and open your existing .xlsx workbook.
3. Start Collaborating: Use the Review tab to easily insert comments, track changes, and share documents with your team.

100% compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) formatsLightweight desktop app with smooth performance and quick startupBuilt-in cloud storage for seamless multi-device collaborationIntuitive user interface that requires no learning curve

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do @mentions work in Excel for Web but not on my desktop?

This usually happens due to a sync issue, an outdated desktop client, or the file not being actively synced to OneDrive or SharePoint through the desktop app's connected services. The web version accesses the cloud directory directly.

Can I use @mentions in Excel files saved locally on my computer?

No, the @mention feature requires the document to be saved in a cloud location like Microsoft OneDrive or SharePoint in order to access the user directory and send automated notification emails.

What is the difference between a Note and a Comment in Excel?

In newer versions of Excel, 'Comments' are threaded conversations that support @mentions and replies. 'Notes' are the traditional yellow sticky notes used for static annotations and do not support tagging users.

How do I force Excel to use Modern Comments?

Modern comments are enabled by default in Microsoft 365. To use them, ensure your file is saved in the modern .xlsx format rather than older formats like .xls, which only support legacy notes.

Document & File Issues