OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix a OneDrive Folder Named with a Tilde Sync Issue

Natalie Taylor Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing synchronization problems in OneDrive because a folder is named exclusively with a tilde (~), preventing successful syncing and getting stuck on the processing status.

How to Fix a OneDrive Folder Named with a Tilde Sync Issue

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to sync local files to OneDrive cloud storage when a folder name contains unsupported characters like a tilde.
Observed behavior: The folder fails to synchronize, resists standard renaming attempts, and leaves the OneDrive client permanently stuck on a 'Waiting for changes' status.

Before you start

Before proceeding, temporarily pause your OneDrive synchronization from the taskbar menu to prevent conflicting file operations while you locate and rename the problematic folder.

Solution 1Recommended

Rename the Folder in the Local OneDrive Sync Directory

Manually locating the problematic folder in your local storage and renaming it with supported characters is the most direct way to resolve this synchronization error.

OneDrive does not support folders named solely with a tilde (~) as it often mistakes them for temporary or hidden system files. Renaming it locally forces OneDrive to recognize it as a standard user folder.

Open Local OneDrive Folder

Open File Explorer and navigate to your local OneDrive sync directory on your computer.

Locate the Tilde Folder

Scroll through your files or use the search bar to find the folder that is named only with a tilde (~).

Rename the Folder

Right-click the folder, select 'Rename', and give it a standard name using supported alphanumeric characters (avoiding <, >, :, ", |, ?, *, /, \, and ~).

Resume Synchronization

Resume your OneDrive sync from the taskbar icon. Wait a few moments for the client to process the new name and clear the 'Waiting for changes' status.

Rename the Folder in the Local OneDrive Sync Directory

Patience Required: After selecting Rename, the error may take a few minutes to disappear completely. OneDrive might temporarily display 'Waiting for changes' while it processes the update.

Solution 2

Reset the OneDrive Client

If you cannot find the folder named with a tilde or if OneDrive remains permanently stuck after renaming, resetting the application will clear the sync queue and resolve the freezing issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a folder named with a tilde (~) cause OneDrive to stop syncing?

OneDrive has specific restrictions regarding file and folder names. A folder named solely with a tilde (~), or starting with one, is often flagged by the system as a temporary, hidden, or invalid file type, causing OneDrive to block it from syncing.

What should I do if OneDrive is permanently stuck on 'Waiting for changes'?

This status typically indicates a file conflict, an unsupported file name, or a stuck sync queue cache. You can resolve this by pausing and resuming the sync, renaming any problematic files (like those with a tilde), or fully resetting the OneDrive client via the Windows Run command.

Are there other special characters I should avoid using in OneDrive folder names?

Yes. To ensure smooth and uninterrupted synchronization, you should strictly avoid using characters such as <, >, :, ", |, ?, *, /, \, and leading/trailing spaces in your file and folder names across OneDrive.

Document & File Issues