OneDrive File Issues

How to Find a OneDrive Scan by Date and File Name

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to locate a scanned document saved in OneDrive but is unsure of its exact folder location, file type, or the specific scanning application used to create it.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Searching for a specific scanned document using a partial file name and date.
Observed behavior: The file cannot be found in the expected folders, requiring a targeted search using dates, file names, and alternative locations like the recycle bin.

Before you start

Ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account associated with the OneDrive or SharePoint where the scanned document was originally saved.

Solution 1Recommended

Search OneDrive and Check the Recycle Bin

Use specific keywords, dates, and the built-in search function to locate the missing scan across your OneDrive and SharePoint.

When a scanned document is saved automatically, it often uses a default naming convention containing the date (e.g., 'OneDrive scan 20250103-2031'). Searching for this specific string can help locate the file quickly.

Log into OneDrive

Open your web browser, navigate to the OneDrive website, and sign in to your Microsoft account.

Use the search bar

Click on the search bar at the top of the screen. Enter the scan name or the specific date (such as '20250103' or 'January 3, 2025') and press Enter.

Check SharePoint locations

If you are using a work or school account and cannot find the file in your personal folders, check connected SharePoint sites where the scan may have been routed.

Check the Recycle bin

Click on 'Recycle bin' in the left navigation pane to see if the scanned file was accidentally deleted. If you find it, select the file and click 'Restore'.

Identify the Scanning App: Knowing which application created the scan (such as Microsoft Lens or a specific printer app) can help you determine the file type (PDF or JPG) and its default save folder.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where are scanned documents usually saved in OneDrive?

By default, documents scanned using the OneDrive mobile app or Microsoft Lens are saved in the 'Documents' folder or a dedicated 'Office Lens' folder within your OneDrive directory.

Can I search for text inside a scanned document on OneDrive?

Yes. If the scanned document is a PDF or an image containing readable text, OneDrive's search function uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to find specific words inside the file.

What should I do if my scanned file won't open after finding it?

If you locate the file but encounter an error when trying to open it, download the file locally to your device first. Ensure you have a compatible PDF reader or image viewer installed to open it properly.

Document & File Issues