Attachment Issues

How to Attach an Existing Email in Outlook on the Web

Adam Davis Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to attach an existing email message to a new email composition in Outlook on the web.

How to Attach an Existing Email in Outlook on the Web

Product: Outlook on the web
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Forwarding or attaching an existing email message without manually copying its contents.
Observed behavior: The user wants to attach an email as an .eml file directly within the web interface.

Before you start

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and are logged into your Outlook on the web account using a supported, updated web browser.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Drag-and-Drop Method

The quickest way to attach an existing email as an .eml file is by dragging it directly into your new message body.

Modern web browsers allow you to drag items natively within the Outlook interface. This method is seamless and preserves the original formatting, headers, and any attachments included in the original email.

Start a new message

Open Outlook on the web and click the 'New message' button at the top left to open the compose pane.

Locate the email to attach

Position your windows or reading pane so you can see both your new message body and the email list in your inbox.

Drag and drop the email

Click and hold the email you want to attach from the list, drag it into the body area of the new message, and release. Outlook will automatically add it as an .eml attachment.

Quick Tip: You can select multiple emails by holding down the Ctrl key (Windows) or Cmd key (Mac) while clicking, then drag them all at once into the new message.

Solution 2

Use the Forward as Attachment Option

If drag-and-drop is unavailable or not functioning on your browser, you can use the built-in menu options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I drag and drop emails in Outlook on the web?

This can happen if you are using an outdated web browser, or if certain browser extensions are interfering with drag-and-drop functionality. Updating your browser, clearing your cache, or temporarily disabling extensions usually resolves this issue.

What file format is used when attaching an existing email?

When you attach an email using Outlook on the web, it is automatically converted and saved as an .eml (Electronic Mail) file. This is a standard format that can be opened by almost all modern email clients.

Can I attach an email to a reply rather than a new message?

Yes. When you are replying to an email, you can drag an existing email from your inbox directly into the compose area of your reply, just as you would with a brand-new message.

Outlook & Email Problems