Document Editing Problems

How to Change the Author of Existing Tracked Changes in Microsoft Word

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to change the author name assigned to existing tracked changes in a Word document, which cannot be accomplished using standard VBA macros because the property is read-only.

How to Change the Author of Existing Tracked Changes in Microsoft Word

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Modifying reviewer names for existing tracked changes in a document before finalizing, printing, or sharing with external clients.
Observed behavior: Standard user interface settings and VBA macros fail to change the author name for existing tracked changes, as the author property is read-only in Word.

Before you start

Always create a backup copy of your document before attempting to modify internal XML files, as incorrect text edits can permanently corrupt the file.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Word's Compare Feature

A safe, built-in method to transfer tracked changes to a new document under a newly specified reviewer name.

Because existing tracked changes are read-only, you can use the Compare feature to generate a fresh set of tracked changes under your current username.

Create an Accepted version

Save a copy of your document, accept all tracked changes, and save it as the 'Revised' version.

Create a Rejected version

Save another copy of your document, reject all tracked changes, and save it as the 'Original' version.

Change your User Name

Go to File > Options > General. Under 'Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office', change your User Name to the desired new author name and click OK.

Compare the documents

Go to the Review tab, click Compare, and select your 'Original' and 'Revised' documents. Word will generate a new document with all the changes tracked under your newly set User Name.

Solution 2

Modify the Document XML File Directly

An advanced method using a ZIP utility to directly find and replace the reviewer name in the document's underlying code.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a VBA macro to change the author of tracked changes?

No. While VBA macros can successfully change the author names for comments, the author property for tracked changes is read-only in Word and cannot be altered via standard VBA scripts.

Will changing my Word User Name update existing tracked changes?

No, updating your User Name in Word Options (File > Options > General) only applies to new tracked changes or comments you create moving forward. It does not retroactively update the names on existing revisions.

Is it safe to edit the document.xml file?

It is safe if done carefully, but editing XML directly can easily corrupt the document if any code syntax is accidentally deleted or broken. Always perform this action on a backup copy of your file to prevent data loss.

Document & File Issues