Unblock macro in Excel

Use the Trust Center to control whether macros can run, and also check that organizational policies or ActiveX settings are not blocking them.

1. Open Excel and go to File > Options.
2. Select Trust Center > Trust Center Settings.
3. Select Macro Settings and choose an appropriate option, for example:
   • Disable VBA macros with notification (recommended so that macros are blocked by default but can be enabled per file), or
   • Disable VBA macros except digitally signed macros if using trusted signed macros.
   • Avoid Enable VBA macros (not recommended, potentially dangerous code can run) unless absolutely necessary, as it allows all macros to run.
4. If the workbook uses Excel 4.0 (XLM) macros, and macros are still blocked, in the same dialog enable Enable Excel 4.0 macros when VBA macros are enabled.
5. Select OK to save the settings.

If macros are still blocked or the options are greyed out:

1. The device may be managed by an organization and macro settings may be enforced by Group Policy. In that case, contact the IT administrator to adjust the policy, because Trust Center settings cannot be changed locally.
2. If the workbook relies on ActiveX controls and they are not working, open File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > ActiveX Settings and make sure Disable all controls without notification is not selected. A safer choice is a prompt-based option so controls can be enabled when needed.

After changing these settings, close and reopen the workbook so the new macro settings take effect.

References:

• Change macro security settings in Excel
• Enable or disable macros in Microsoft 365 files
• Run Time Error 438 in Excel Sheet - Microsoft Q&A
• Where to find Active X Control within developers tab? - Microsoft Q&A