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How to Fix Office for Mac Activation Error 44
Question details
The user is unable to use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on their Mac due to an unexpected activation prompt that results in Error 44 when trying to sign in.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to launch Office applications or refresh a purchased software license.
- Observed behavior
- The applications suddenly request activation, reject the expected personal account login, and display Error 44 when refreshing the license.
Ensure you know the exact Microsoft account credentials (email and password) that were originally used to purchase your Microsoft 365 subscription or perpetual Office license.
Verify Your Microsoft Account License
Confirm that the personal account you are trying to use actually holds an active Office subscription or perpetual license.
Activation errors often occur when users accidentally sign in with a secondary email or an account whose subscription has expired. Checking your service status directly on Microsoft's portal ensures your account is eligible for activation.
Open a web browser and navigate to account.microsoft.com/services.
Enter the email and password for the personal Microsoft account associated with your Office purchase.
Look under the 'Services & subscriptions' section to verify that your subscription or perpetual license is listed and currently active.
Remove Corrupted Office License Files on Mac
Use Microsoft's official tool to clear old or corrupted license files on your Mac, forcing the software to authenticate cleanly.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Mac Experience
Tired of dealing with complex Microsoft Office activation errors and account sync issues on your Mac? WPS Office is a powerful, lightweight, and free alternative that works seamlessly on macOS without frustrating license management.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the version optimized for macOS.
- 2. Install the application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon to your Applications folder.
- 3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and immediately open your existing Microsoft Office files without needing to convert them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Error 44 in Office for Mac?
Error 44 typically occurs when there is a mismatch between the signed-in account and the active license, or when the local authentication files on your Mac become corrupted and fail to sync with Microsoft's servers.
Will removing my license files delete my Office documents?
No, running the license removal tool only clears hidden authentication and activation files. Your personal Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents are stored separately and will remain completely safe on your Mac.
Why doesn't my personal account show my Office subscription?
If you don't see your subscription under your account services, you may have used a different email address to purchase Office, or you might be logged in with a work or school account instead of your personal account.
