Office for Mac Issues

How to Stop Word for Mac from Requesting Authentication When Opening Files

Maira Mehtab Sep 24, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve an issue where Microsoft Word for Mac constantly prompts for authentication when attempting to open documents.

Product: Microsoft Word for Mac
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Opening local or cloud-based documents in Word for Mac.
Observed behavior: Word repeatedly interrupts the user by requesting account authentication instead of opening the requested files directly.

Before you start

Before proceeding, ensure you have your correct Microsoft account email and password ready, as you will likely need to sign back into Office after resetting your credentials.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear Corrupted Credentials in Keychain Access

Removing corrupted or outdated Microsoft credentials from your Mac's Keychain is the most effective way to resolve persistent authentication loops.

macOS stores your application passwords securely in Keychain Access. If the authentication token for Microsoft Office becomes corrupted or outdated, Word will continually fail to verify your license in the background, prompting you for your password every time you open a file.

Close Microsoft Word

Ensure that Microsoft Word and all other Microsoft Office applications are completely closed.

Open Keychain Access

Open the Finder, navigate to Applications > Utilities, and launch the Keychain Access app.

Search for Office Credentials

In the search bar at the top right of the Keychain Access window, type 'Microsoft Office' or 'Microsoft Word'.

Delete Outdated Entries

Select all matching entries in the list, right-click on them, and select 'Delete' to remove the cached credentials.

Restart and Sign In

Restart your Mac, open Microsoft Word, and sign in with your licensed Microsoft account when prompted to generate a fresh credential token.

Data Safety: Deleting Keychain entries will not delete your documents or personal files; it only removes saved password data.

Solution 2

Adjust macOS Privacy and Security Settings

Ensure Word has the correct system permissions to access your files and folders to prevent authentication blockages.

Solution 3

Verify Office Activation Status

Check if Word is failing to authenticate because the software is currently unlicensed or signed out.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Mac to Avoid Authentication Loops

If Microsoft Word continues to prompt for authentication or you want a hassle-free experience without complex activation issues, try WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that works seamlessly on macOS.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free macOS version.
2. Install the Application: Open the downloaded file and drag the WPS Office icon to your Applications folder.
3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and directly open your .docx files without recurring authentication prompts.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx) formatsFree and lightweight alternative for Mac usersNo complicated activation or recurring subscription requiredFamiliar user interface for a seamless transition

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word for Mac keep asking for my password?

This usually happens due to corrupted Keychain entries, an inactive Office license, or macOS privacy restrictions preventing the app from verifying your credentials in the background.

Will deleting Keychain entries delete my documents?

No. The Keychain Access app only stores passwords and authentication tokens securely. Modifying or deleting these entries will not affect your actual Word documents.

How do I know if my Office for Mac is activated?

You can check your activation status by opening Word, clicking on 'Word' in the top menu bar, and selecting 'About Word'. Look for the license type listed in the dialog box.

What should I do if removing Keychain credentials doesn't work?

If clearing the Keychain doesn't resolve the issue, you may need to check your Mac's Privacy & Security settings to ensure Word has access to Files and Folders, or completely uninstall and reinstall Office for Mac.

Office App Problems