How to Fix Excel Error 1303 and Unrecognized Purchases on Mac
Question details
The user needs to resolve error code 1303 in Excel on a Mac, which prevents access to the application due to an unrecognized Office purchase or account verification failure.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Opening Microsoft Excel or attempting to activate an Office subscription on a Mac.
- Observed behavior
- Excel displays error 1303 indicating it cannot access or verify the Office purchase, blocking the user from utilizing the software.
Ensure you have the exact email address and password for the Microsoft account originally used to purchase your Office subscription.
Verify Account Services and Reinstall Office
Refresh your application's connection to your Microsoft account by completely signing out, verifying your license online, and reinstalling the software.
Often, Excel error 1303 is triggered by a desync between your local Office installation and Microsoft's licensing servers. Signing out and reinstalling ensures your Mac pulls the most up-to-date subscription data.
Open Excel (or any other Office application) on your Mac, click on the 'Excel' menu at the top left of your screen, and select 'Sign Out'. Close the application completely.
Open a web browser and navigate to https://account.microsoft.com/services. Log in with your Microsoft account credentials and confirm that your Office subscription is listed and active under your services.
If your license is active, uninstall Office from your Mac by dragging it from the Applications folder to the Trash. Then, download the latest installer from your Microsoft account page, install it, and sign back in using the verified account.
Submit a Billing Investigation to Microsoft
Use this solution if your Office purchase does not appear on your Microsoft account services page and remains unlinked.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Spreadsheet Experience
If Excel error 1303 and Microsoft licensing issues are keeping you locked out of your work, switch to WPS Office. It provides a powerful, free, and highly compatible alternative without the frustration of complex subscription verifications.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the free download button for the Mac version.
- 2. Install on your Mac: Open the downloaded installation package and drag the WPS Office icon into your Applications folder.
- 3. Open your Excel files: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and instantly open your existing Excel documents to continue working without interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly causes Excel Error 1303 on a Mac?
Error 1303 is an authentication error that occurs when Microsoft Office cannot verify your purchase. It is typically caused by logging in with the wrong Microsoft account, a corrupted Office installation file, or an unlinked software license.
How do I check which account is linked to my Office purchase?
You can verify your active subscriptions and associated purchases by navigating to account.microsoft.com/services in a web browser and logging in with your Microsoft credentials.
Will I be charged again if I have to reinstall Microsoft Office?
No. As long as your purchase is verified on your Microsoft account services page, you can download and reinstall the software as many times as needed without paying again.
