Permission & Access Issues

How to Fix Cannot Upload Files to Shared OneDrive or SharePoint Folder

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to upload files or folders to a shared OneDrive or SharePoint directory, despite having edit permissions and the ability to delete existing files.

Product: OneDrive and SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to add new documents or folders to a shared cloud drive directory.
Observed behavior: The file upload fails or the 'Add new' option is disabled, even though the user can successfully delete files in the same folder.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and that the files you are trying to upload do not exceed the file size limits or violate any file type restrictions set by your organization.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Permissions via Manage Access

Confirming your exact permission level is the first step, as custom permissions might allow deletion but restrict uploads.

In SharePoint and OneDrive, 'Edit' permission normally allows uploading files and folders. However, administrators can create custom permission levels. If you can delete but not upload, your account might be assigned a restricted custom permission or experiencing a synchronization glitch.

Access the folder properties

Open OneDrive or SharePoint in your web browser. Hover over the shared folder, click the three-dot menu (ellipsis), and select 'Manage Access'.

Check your permission status

Locate your name or your group's name in the access list. Verify that it says 'Can Edit' and not a custom or restricted permission level.

Request permission reset

If the 'Add new' button remains disabled despite showing 'Can Edit', contact the folder owner or IT administrator. Ask them to remove your access and re-invite you with standard 'Edit' permissions.

Custom Permission Levels: SharePoint administrators have the ability to uncheck the 'Add Items' permission while leaving 'Delete Items' enabled within custom permission groups.

Solution 2

Check Storage Quota and Folder Integrity

Ensure that the shared drive has not run out of storage space, which prevents all users from uploading new files.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 'Add new' button greyed out in my shared folder?

The 'Add new' button is typically greyed out if you only have 'View' access, if the folder is locked, or if the SharePoint site administrator has disabled the upload feature for your user group.

Can I delete files if I only have view permissions?

No, deleting files requires at least 'Contribute' or 'Edit' permissions. If you can delete files, you likely have edit permissions, but your upload rights may be restricted by a custom permission level or a site-wide storage quota issue.

What is the maximum file upload size for SharePoint and OneDrive?

By default, the maximum file upload size for OneDrive and SharePoint is 250 GB. However, your organization's IT administrator may have configured much lower limits for specific sites or folders.

How can a folder owner fix my SharePoint upload permissions?

The folder owner can click the ellipsis next to the folder, select 'Manage Access', remove your current permission entry, and then use the 'Share' button to re-invite you, ensuring the 'Can edit' option is explicitly selected.

Document & File Issues