Excel Error Codes

Fix "The File Name or Path Does Not Exist" Error in Excel for Mac

Elise Williams Oct 8, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve an issue where Excel for Mac fails to open a workbook and displays a "file name or path does not exist" error.

How to Fix Excel for Mac Error: The File Name or Path Does Not Exist

Product: Microsoft Excel for Mac
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to open the Excel application or launch a specific workbook file.
Observed behavior: Excel displays an error message reading "The file name or path does not exist" and prevents the user from accessing the spreadsheet.

Before you start

Before attempting to fix this error, ensure that you have not recently moved the file to the Trash or to an external drive that is currently disconnected from your Mac.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Microsoft Office for Mac

Installing the latest updates can resolve unexpected file path errors, particularly if the issue started occurring after a recent macOS system upgrade.

Compatibility issues between newer macOS versions and older builds of Microsoft Office often trigger false file path errors. Forcing a software update ensures these bugs are patched.

Open an Office application

Launch Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint on your Mac. If Excel crashes immediately, use Word instead.

Access the Help menu

In the top Apple menu bar, click on 'Help' and select 'Check for Updates' from the dropdown list.

Install available updates

Follow the Microsoft AutoUpdate prompts to download and install the latest software versions, then restart your Mac.

Solution 2

Verify File Location and Open Manually

The error often occurs if the file was moved or if the Recent Files list points to an outdated location. Verifying the file in Finder and opening it manually can restore access.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Flawless Spreadsheet Experience on Mac

If Microsoft Excel continues to display file path errors, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and user-friendly alternative for macOS, allowing you to manage all your spreadsheets without the hassle of recurring software bugs.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the macOS installation package.
2. Install the application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon to your Applications folder.
3. Open your spreadsheets: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Excel workbooks instantly without encountering path errors.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xls, .xlsx, .csv) with zero formatting loss.Lightweight application that runs smoothly on all macOS versions.Free to use with a familiar user interface, making the transition seamless.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel for Mac say the file name or path does not exist?

This error usually happens if the workbook was moved to another folder, deleted, or renamed outside of Excel. It can also occur due to software compatibility issues or permission glitches after updating your macOS.

How do I clear the Recent Files list in Excel for Mac to avoid this error?

Open Excel, go to the 'File' menu, select 'Open Recent', and choose 'More'. From there, you can right-click the problematic file and select 'Remove from Recent' to stop Excel from trying to open the old, invalid path.

Will renaming my Excel file corrupt it?

No, renaming a file in macOS Finder is perfectly safe. Just ensure you keep the correct file extension (such as .xlsx) at the end of the file name so the operating system continues to recognize it as a spreadsheet.

Microsoft Office Error Codes