If your workflow is blocked, confirm the account and app context, then follow the ordered fixes below.
Problem Description: Pc Settings Page Shows
I purchased a new computer in November 2025. After setting it up, I was given a free 1 month trial of M365 family. When it expired, I was prompted to activate a new subscription. I subscribed to M365 personal using the same Microsoft account. Online my account shows as active; however, in the Windows 11 "Settings" > "Home" page, it shows my subscription is expired (see screenshot). I want to clear this warning from my settings page. Also, when I try to connect the device to my Microsoft account in the web browser portal, it says it does not recognize the Windows Serial Number. How do I reconnect the device? [Screenshot 2026-01-06 114024.png](/api/attachments/2ed1de4b-1430-4531-88ce-48900c5cc40f?platform=QnA)

Quick Answer for Resolving Login
Note that warning is about Microsoft 365 Family, not Microsoft 365 Personal.
Likely Causes Behind Login & Account Issues
The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.
Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger login & account issues.
A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.
Recommended Solution: Installing Office on a New PC
When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.
That's completely different subscription.
Have you ever subscribed to 365 Family?
Maybe someone else did and added you as family member?
Check what Microsoft account you are using when checking subscription on account.microsoft.com.
Check if your are using the same account in Windows and also in Office.
Regarding connecting device, could you please create screenshot including that message "not recognizing Windows Serial Number".
Thanks!
Alternative Solutions for When Office Still Fails
Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.
Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.
Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.
Working with WPS Office: WPS Office for Local Document Work

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.
Download and install WPS Office from the official website.
Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.
Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.
Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.
If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.
Prevention Tips for Safer Login Habits
Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.
Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.
Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.
Register more than one MFA method and keep recovery contacts current.
FAQs About Common Login Answers
Can WPS Office fix this login & account issues issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.
Should I reinstall Office before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.
What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.




