Excel Error Codes

Fix Excel for Android Repeatedly Requesting Sign-In & Too Many Requests

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 872 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an issue where the Excel mobile app continuously asks for sign-in credentials and displays a 'Too many requests' error when opening OneDrive files, even after reinstalling the app and clearing its data.

Product: Excel for Android
Device & OS: Android 14 (Galaxy S23 Ultra)
Scenario: Attempting to open or edit cloud-stored files via OneDrive on the Excel mobile app.
Observed behavior: The application enters a sign-in loop and displays a 'Too many requests' error, preventing native access to OneDrive files. The issue persists across all Office apps on the device, though downloaded local files function normally.

Before you start

Verify your internet connection and ensure that you can successfully log into your Microsoft OneDrive account through a mobile web browser to rule out a generalized account suspension.

Solution 1Recommended

Download Files Locally to Isolate the Issue

By downloading files directly to your device storage, you can bypass the Microsoft account sync failure and continue working on your spreadsheets.

Since the 'Too many requests' error often points to a server-side rate limit or account authentication glitch affecting the OneDrive connection, working offline temporarily allows you to maintain productivity while the sync issue is resolved.

Open OneDrive

Launch the standalone OneDrive app on your Android device rather than opening files directly through Excel.

Download the Spreadsheet

Locate the Excel file you need to edit, tap the three dots (More options) next to the file name, and select 'Download' or 'Save' to copy it to your device's local storage.

Open Locally in Excel

Navigate to your device's local files or 'Downloads' folder, tap the file, and open it with Excel. Verify if the file opens without prompting the sign-in loop.

Local Saving: Remember that edits made to the local copy will not automatically sync to OneDrive. You will need to re-upload the file once the server issue is resolved.

Solution 2

Collect System Information and Escalate to Support

Because basic troubleshooting steps like clearing app data and reinstalling do not resolve this app-wide token error, you must document the issue and contact Microsoft Support.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Use WPS Office to Edit Spreadsheets on Android

If Excel for Android is locked in a continuous sign-in loop, try WPS Office. It is a lightweight, free alternative that perfectly supports Microsoft Excel formats and allows you to seamlessly edit local or cloud-stored files on your mobile device without relying on Microsoft's authentication servers.

1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office from the Google Play Store and open the application on your Android device.
2. Locate Your File: Tap on the 'Files' tab or use the 'Open' option to navigate to your downloaded spreadsheet or connect a cloud drive.
3. Edit Seamlessly: Tap your .xlsx file to begin editing instantly with full formatting support and no repeated sign-in prompts.

100% compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls) formatsLightweight app that won't drain your Android device resourcesEasily edit files locally or connect to alternative cloud servicesFree to use with a familiar, user-friendly mobile interface

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel show a 'Too many requests' error on Android?

This error typically indicates a server-side rate limit or a temporary authentication block with your Microsoft account, preventing the app from verifying your credentials with OneDrive.

Will clearing Excel's app data delete my files?

No, clearing app data only removes your account credentials, cache, and app preferences. It does not delete spreadsheets stored in OneDrive or your device's local storage.

How do I find my Excel version on Android?

Open your device's 'Settings' app, go to 'Apps' or 'App Management', find 'Excel' in the list, and scroll to the bottom of the App Info page to see the version number.

Can I still edit my spreadsheets if Excel won't let me sign in?

Yes. You can download your files from the OneDrive app or web browser directly to your phone, then open them locally in Excel, or use a compatible alternative like WPS Office.

Microsoft Office Error Codes