SharePoint Document Issues

Fix SharePoint Multiline Text Field Rejecting Text Over 255 Characters

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users are unable to paste text longer than 255 characters into a multiline text field while editing a SharePoint list in grid view.

Product: Microsoft SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Copying and pasting long text blocks into a SharePoint list using the quick-edit grid view.
Observed behavior: The text field incorrectly rejects inputs over 255 characters. Additionally, the plain-text and rich-text configuration options are missing from the column settings.

Before you start

Before attempting to modify any column properties or list settings, ensure you export your SharePoint list to Excel to create a backup, as altering field types can result in permanent data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Contact Microsoft 365 Support for Backend Resolution

Since this is a known temporary server-side glitch in SharePoint, raising a support ticket is the safest route to restore functionality without risking data loss.

When multiline text fields suddenly restrict character counts and lose rich-text settings, it typically indicates a backend Microsoft 365 error rather than a user configuration mistake. Administrators must request a backend log review.

Access the Microsoft 365 Admin Center

Navigate to Help & Support

Click on the 'Support' section on the left-hand navigation menu and select 'Help & support'.

Submit a New Service Request

Describe the specific issue detailing that the multiline text field rejects text over 255 characters in grid view and request a backend log review to identify the cause.

For Non-Administrators: If you do not have administrative access, do not attempt to change the field type. Contact your tenant administrator or IT department to submit this Microsoft 365 ticket on your behalf.

Solution 2

Verify List Settings and Edit Items Individually

Check if the unlimited length option was accidentally disabled, and bypass the grid view glitch by editing items through the standard form.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my SharePoint multiline text column act like a single line of text?

This usually occurs if the 'Allow unlimited length in document libraries' setting has been disabled in the list settings, or if there is a backend temporary glitch affecting SharePoint's grid view.

Will changing a SharePoint column from multiline to single line delete my data?

Yes. Changing a multiline text field back to a single line of text will permanently truncate any existing data in that column that exceeds the 255-character limit. Always back up your list before modifying field types.

Why are plain-text and rich-text options missing from my multiline field settings?

If these options suddenly disappear from your list settings, it is typically a Microsoft 365 server-side issue. Your tenant administrator should open a support ticket to have backend logs reviewed.

Can I bypass the 255-character limit in SharePoint grid view?

If grid view is glitching, you can often bypass the error by exiting grid view and editing the list item individually via the standard SharePoint form, which usually handles long text inputs without issue.

Document & File Issues