SharePoint Document Issues

How to Remove ~$ Temporary Excel Files in SharePoint

Kushani Nimanthika Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users are seeking an explanation for why Excel files prefixed with ~$ appear in SharePoint following a file migration, even when these files appear to be missing from the original source folder.

How to Handle Excel Files Beginning with ~$ in SharePoint

Product: SharePoint and Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Migrating files from a local Windows directory to a SharePoint document library using a migration tool.
Observed behavior: Hidden temporary owner lock files (beginning with ~$) are captured during the migration process and displayed as visible items in the destination SharePoint library.

Before you start

Ensure you have the necessary edit permissions to view, manage, and delete files in both your local Windows source folder and the destination SharePoint document library.

Solution 1Recommended

Delete Temporary ~$ Files Directly in SharePoint

Since these files are remnants of incomplete saves, they are safe to delete directly from SharePoint if your original data files are intact.

Files beginning with ~$ are temporary lock files created by Microsoft Office while a workbook is being edited. If the file was not saved correctly or left open during migration, the SharePoint Migration Tool (SPMT) captures and uploads them as independent files.

Access the Document Library

Locate the ~$ Files

Scroll through the library or use the search bar to find any files whose names start with the ~$ characters.

Delete the Orphaned Files

Select the temporary files by clicking the checkmark next to their names, click the three-dot menu (Show actions) at the top, and choose 'Delete' to remove them permanently.

Delete Temporary ~$ Files Directly in SharePoint

Safe to delete: These are not your actual data files. Deleting them will not cause data loss as long as the main Excel file (.xlsx) is safely stored in the library.

Solution 2

Reveal Hidden Items in the Source Windows Folder

Check your local Windows folder to identify and clear hidden temporary files before performing future migrations.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Spreadsheet Management

Avoid messy temporary files and complex troubleshooting. WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Excel, offering seamless editing and auto-saving without leaving orphaned lock files scattered in your folders.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite.
2. Open WPS Spreadsheets: Launch WPS Office and click on the 'Spreadsheets' module.
3. Edit Your Files: Click 'Open' to select your existing Excel files and continue working without compatibility issues.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formats including .xlsx, .xls, and .csv.Lightweight installation ensures fast startup times and smooth performance.Clean file management that minimizes orphaned temporary files after editing.Free to download with a familiar, easy-to-use tabbed interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a file starting with ~$?

It is a temporary owner lock file created by Microsoft Office when a document is opened. It keeps track of who is currently editing the file to prevent conflicts and data overwriting.

Why do ~$ files stay in the folder after I close Excel?

Normally, these files are deleted automatically when you save and close the workbook properly. However, if the program crashes, loses its network connection, or is forced to close unexpectedly, the temporary file may remain orphaned in the directory.

Can I prevent the SharePoint Migration Tool from uploading these temporary files?

Yes. Before running a migration, ensure all Office files are properly closed. You can also configure the SharePoint Migration Tool (SPMT) settings to exclude specific file types or hidden files to prevent them from transferring.

Document & File Issues