File Sharing Problems

How to Fix Missing 'Share as a Copy' in Word for OneDrive Files

Aamir Naveed Akram Oct 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to share cloud-stored Word documents as actual file attachments and is forced to share them as web links instead.

How to Share OneDrive and SharePoint Files as Attachments Instead of Links in Word

Product: Microsoft Word 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to share a document stored in OneDrive or SharePoint directly from the Microsoft Word desktop application.
Observed behavior: The "Share as a copy" option has disappeared for cloud-stored files following a recent update, though the feature remains available for locally stored documents.

Before you start

Verify whether the issue occurs with all documents or only those stored in OneDrive and SharePoint. Ensure your email client is properly configured as the default mail app on your system.

Solution 1Recommended

Download a Local Copy to Send as an Attachment

Since locally stored files still support the 'Share as a copy' feature, saving the cloud document to your local hard drive bypasses the link-only restriction.

This is the most reliable immediate workaround. By severing the active link to OneDrive or SharePoint within the Word app, you force the software to treat the file as a standard local document, restoring traditional attachment capabilities.

Open the cloud document

Launch the Microsoft Word desktop app and open the affected OneDrive or SharePoint document.

Save a local copy

Click on 'File' in the top-left corner, select 'Save As' or 'Save a Copy', and choose a local directory on your computer, such as your Desktop or Documents folder.

Share the local file

With the local file now open, click the 'Share' button. The 'Send a copy' option (including Word document or PDF attachment) will now be visible and functional.

Download a Local Copy to Send as an Attachment

Alternative Method: You can also simply open your email client (like Outlook), click 'Attach File', and browse for the cloud file. The email client will often ask if you want to attach it as a copy or a link.

Solution 2

Report the Backend Issue to Microsoft Support

Because this missing feature is tied to a Microsoft 365 backend service update, your organization's IT administrator may need to intervene to request a permanent fix.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Use WPS Office for Hassle-Free File Sharing and Attachments

Tired of unpredictable feature updates in Microsoft 365 that restrict how you handle your own files? WPS Office is a highly compatible, free alternative that gives you complete control. Easily send any document as a direct email attachment without being forced into cloud-link sharing.

1. Download WPS Office: Install the free WPS Office suite on your computer.
2. Open your document: Open your .docx file in WPS Writer.
3. Send as an attachment: Click 'Menu', go to 'Share', and select 'Email' to instantly attach the physical file to a new message.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx), Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Send documents as email attachments directly from the app without forced cloud link restrictions.Lightweight installation with a familiar, easy-to-use tabbed interface.Free to use with built-in PDF conversion and editing tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did 'Share as a copy' disappear in Microsoft Word?

This issue typically occurs after certain Microsoft 365 updates where backend service changes force OneDrive and SharePoint files to default to link-sharing. Microsoft periodically adjusts these cloud features, which can inadvertently hide legacy attachment options.

Can I still send a cloud-stored Word document as a PDF attachment?

If the 'Share as a copy' option is missing, you cannot do this directly from the share menu for a cloud file. You must first download the file locally to your device; once saved locally, the 'Send as PDF' attachment option will reappear.

How do I share a SharePoint file as a physical attachment without downloading it first?

Instead of using the 'Share' button inside Word, open your email application (such as Outlook), start a new email, click 'Attach File', and select the SharePoint document. Outlook will prompt you to choose whether to share it as a cloud link or attach it as a physical copy.

Document & File Issues