File Corruption & Recovery

Why Microsoft Word Creates Temporary Files & How to Remove Them

Steve K Oct 10, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to understand the purpose of temporary files created by Microsoft Word and learn how to safely delete them when they are left behind.

Why Microsoft Word Creates Temporary Files and How to Remove Them

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing document storage and dealing with leftover temporary or AutoRecover files after closing a document or experiencing an unexpected software crash.
Observed behavior: Temporary files appear in the directory while a Word document is open or saving, and sometimes fail to delete automatically when the application closes.

Before you start

Ensure that you have completely closed Microsoft Word and saved all active documents before attempting to delete any temporary files manually.

Solution 1Recommended

Manually Delete Leftover Temporary Files

Safely remove remaining temporary files from your file manager after Microsoft Word has been closed.

Microsoft Word cannot be prevented from creating temporary files while a document is open, as they handle active memory and save processes. However, these files should automatically disappear when you close the document. If they remain, you can delete them manually.

Close Microsoft Word

Save your work and completely exit the Microsoft Word application to release any file locks.

Locate the Temporary Files

Open your file manager (File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac) and navigate to the folder where your original document is stored.

Delete the Files

Select any hidden files starting with '~$', ending in '.tmp', or labeled as AutoRecover files, right-click them, and choose 'Delete' or 'Move to Trash'.

Cloud Storage Automation: If you store your files on OneDrive or SharePoint, the system automatically uses cloud recovery and version history, reducing the need for local temporary files.

Solution 2

Configure AutoRecover Settings

Adjust Word's built-in recovery settings to control how and where backup files are saved.

Solution 3

Prevent File Corruption from External Drives

Avoid editing documents directly from USB flash drives to reduce the risk of crashes and leftover temporary files.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop Microsoft Word from creating temporary files?

No, you cannot prevent Word from creating temporary files while a document is open. These files are essential for managing computer memory, supporting the 'Undo' feature, and preventing data loss. They are normally deleted automatically when you close the program.

Why do some Word temporary files start with '~$'?

Files beginning with a tilde and dollar sign (~$) are temporary 'owner files'. Word creates them to lock the document, preventing other users from making conflicting changes while you are editing it.

Are temporary files the same as AutoRecover files?

No. Temporary files handle active memory and saving processes while you work. AutoRecover files are specific backups created at regular intervals to restore your work in the event of an unexpected crash or power failure.

How do I recover a document if Word closed unexpectedly?

If Word crashes, simply reopen the application. The Document Recovery pane should appear automatically on the left side of your screen, allowing you to view, open, and save the latest AutoRecover versions of your documents.

Document & File Issues