Is Word Having 365 Adds Borders Problems? Here Is the Fix

This guide walks you through formatting issues using Microsoft-supported steps first, with WPS only where it genuinely helps.

Problem Description: 365 Adds Borders All

Word 365 16.0.19530.20144 64-bit Some years ago, we developed a global template named DocumentParts.dotm which contains AutoText for various instructions that accompany our products. This template has worked flawlessly for years, and as recently as 9 January 2026, across documents numbering in the dozens if not 100s based on a dozen templates. Today, I opened DocumentParts.dotm and found that ALL tables in AutoText that had no borders originally, now had borders. Removed borders on the AutoText entry, resaved the AutoText and DocumentParts.dotm. Removed cell borders on the table in the document I was using (which uses AutoText field codes with AutoText stored in DocumentParts.com), pressed F9, they came back. Checked DocumentParts.dotm, no borders on the table in the AutoText. Closed & reopened DocumentParts.dotm, still no borders., Verified there are no AutoText entries with the same name in the attached template that could conflict, and to confirm, temporarily unloaded the global template, whereupon F9 gave me the expected "Error! AutoText entry not defined." message. Went back later and looked at DocumentParts.dotm AutoText and table borders had returned. This has occurred several times after a period of time, but I don't know what triggers it. Repeated this remove borders/borders return cycle several more times, including after a computer restart. 100% reproducible. Spot-checked documents based on other templates & DocumentParts.dotm as global template; same problem. I'm the only one that ever touches these templates or the documents based on them; I know they’re not being changed by anyone else. Today is 14 Jan 2026. Word updated yesterday. Thinking that might be related, rolled back to previous patch. That patch predated the last successful use of these templates. No change with the previous bits, so I'm stumped as to what's causing this. I have been able to work around it by changing the border color in DocumentParts.dotm AutoText entries with tables to white. Any idea why ALL AutoText entries containing tables automagically acquired borders in the last 6 days, and now they won't go away, even when they briefly look like they have? Any idea how to make them go away forever without my white table border workaround? TIA

Quick Answer for Formatting Issues Quick Fix

This issue may relate to a known problem with table formatting in co-authored Word documents, where formats can get corrupted.

Likely Causes Behind Word Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger formatting issues.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Fixing Formatting Issues Step by Step

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. Check for Word updates that might resolve the issue.

2. Manually adjust table borders in your AutoText entries as a temporary workaround.

3. Review the Table Styles Gallery and 'Style based on' dropdown to ensure consistent formatting.

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Formatting Issues

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Formatting Issues

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Word Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Work on copies and keep version history enabled when available.

FAQs About Formatting Issues Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this formatting issues issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Word before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.