Office for Mac Issues

How to Fix OneNote for Mac Custom Tags Not Loading

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to fix an issue where custom tags in OneNote remain stuck on a loading screen and cannot be managed across platforms.

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: Mac
Scenario: Attempting to edit, manage, or delete custom tags in OneNote on a Mac.
Observed behavior: The custom tags menu gets stuck in an infinite loading state, preventing the user from editing or deleting their tags.

Before you start

Ensure your Mac is connected to the internet and verify that Microsoft 365 services are currently operational in your region.

Solution 1Recommended

Switch to a Different Network Connection or Mobile Hotspot

Network connectivity conditions often cause syncing features like custom tags to freeze. Switching networks can force the app to refresh.

OneNote custom tags sync continuously with Microsoft servers. If your current Wi-Fi network has strict firewall rules, high latency, or transient routing issues, the tags panel may get stuck loading. Connecting via a personal mobile hotspot is a proven workaround.

Disconnect from current Wi-Fi

Click the Wi-Fi icon in your Mac's top menu bar and toggle off your current network connection.

Enable mobile hotspot

On your smartphone, navigate to Settings and turn on the Personal Hotspot feature.

Connect Mac to hotspot

On your Mac, select your phone's hotspot from the list of available Wi-Fi networks and connect.

Test custom tags

Open OneNote, navigate to the tags menu, and verify if you can now load, edit, or delete your custom tags.

Confirmed Workaround: Many users have reported that connecting through a personal mobile hotspot immediately resolves the infinite loading issue for custom tags.

Solution 2

Update Microsoft OneNote to the Latest Version

Updating the application ensures you have the latest bug fixes and sync improvements from Microsoft.

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1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version of WPS Office.
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3. Start creating: Launch WPS Office to instantly view, create, or edit your documents for free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my custom tags in OneNote not syncing across devices?

Syncing issues are typically caused by unstable internet connections, server-side delays from Microsoft, or using an outdated app version. Changing your network or connecting to a mobile hotspot often forces the application to refresh its connection and sync properly.

How do I delete a custom tag in OneNote for Mac?

To delete a custom tag, click the tags dropdown menu in the Home tab, select 'Create New Tag', and in the Custom Tags panel, select the tag you want to remove and click the delete (X) icon. If this panel is stuck loading, you may need to switch your Wi-Fi network.

Are custom tags fully supported on OneNote for web and mobile?

While you can view the custom tags you created on your desktop version across web and mobile devices, the ability to create, edit, or delete them is primarily limited to the desktop versions of OneNote.

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