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How to Fix Microsoft Forms Not Accepting Responses

Guest Writer Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

A newly created Microsoft Form fails to accept responses when users attempt to access it via a shared QR code.

How to Fix Microsoft Forms Not Accepting Responses

Product: Microsoft Forms
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: A user is trying to collect data by sharing a newly created form using a QR code and various sharing options.
Observed behavior: The form denies entry or fails to record responses, indicating it is not currently accepting submissions despite attempts to modify sharing settings.

Before you start

Before troubleshooting, ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account that has administrative or ownership access to the affected form.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Accept Responses Settings and Permissions

Ensure the form is actively configured to accept submissions and the correct audience permissions are applied to allow access.

Microsoft Forms gives creators strict control over when a form is active and who can access it. If the active period has expired or the wrong audience is selected, respondents will be blocked.

Open Form Settings

Log in to Microsoft Forms, open the specific form, and click on the three-dot menu icon (More form settings) in the top right corner, then select 'Settings'.

Enable Accept Responses

Under the 'Options for responses' section, check the box next to 'Accept responses' to ensure it is actively enabled.

Check Start and End Dates

Review the 'Start date' and 'End date' checkboxes to confirm the current date and time fall within the active response period. Adjust or uncheck them if necessary.

Update Audience Permissions

Under 'Who can fill out this form', select the appropriate permission level (e.g., 'Anyone can respond') to ensure external users scanning your QR code are not blocked.

Verify Accept Responses Settings and Permissions

Permission Tip: Setting the form to 'Anyone can respond' is the best way to ensure maximum accessibility when sharing via printed QR codes.

Solution 2

Duplicate the Form to Create a Fresh Copy

If the original form is corrupted or stuck in a blocked state, duplicating it can often resolve underlying backend glitches.

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Use WPS Forms to Collect Responses Seamlessly

Avoid response collection errors by using WPS Forms to quickly create, share, and gather data without frustrating access issues.

1. Open WPS Form: Launch WPS Office and navigate to the 'Apps' or 'Tools' section, then select 'WPS Form'.
2. Create Your Form: Choose a pre-designed template or start with a blank canvas to add your specific questions and fields.
3. Publish and Share: Click 'Publish' to finalize the form, then instantly generate a QR code or web link.
4. Collect and Analyze: Share the QR code with your audience and easily export the collected responses directly to a WPS Spreadsheet or Microsoft Excel format.

Create and share customizable forms for free with an intuitive drag-and-drop interfaceHighly compatible with Microsoft Excel for seamless and easy data analysisGenerate QR codes and shareable links instantly to reach a wider audienceTrack responses in real-time with lightweight and reliable form management tools

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Microsoft Form say it is not currently accepting responses?

This typically happens if the 'Accept responses' box is unchecked in the form's settings menu, or if a specified end date has already passed, automatically closing the form to new submissions.

Can I reopen a Microsoft Form after the deadline has passed?

Yes. Open your form, go to Settings, and either uncheck the end date entirely or set a new future end date. Ensure the 'Accept responses' option remains checked.

How do I change who can respond to my Microsoft Form?

Click the More form settings (three dots) icon, select Settings, and look under 'Who can fill out this form'. You can choose 'Anyone can respond', 'Only people in my organization', or 'Specific people' depending on your needs.

Why is my QR code not working for external users?

If the QR code blocks users from outside your organization, your sharing permissions are likely restricted. Update your form settings to 'Anyone can respond'. The existing QR code will automatically apply this new permission.

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