My macOS Catalina no longer handles Word, but I can't seem to upgrade.

Jim Dawson 20 Reputation points
2026-07-15T01:46:38.5833333+00:00

I have macOS Catalina, and I'm a registered, paying Word customer. Word just conked out on me. It opens but I can't work on it. I know it has to do with macOS Catalina being no longer able to handle Word, but I can't seem to upgrade. What can I do?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For home | MacOS
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EmilyS_726 29,750 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2026-07-15T02:17:12+00:00

If your OS is above version 12 but below 14, your office products can be functional, but Microsoft no longer maintains or updates that version. In this scenario, you can install the older downgraded version.

However, if it is below 12, it will now enter reduced functionality mode. In another word, the OS is too old to receive the licensing update the Office now requires. Sorry. Buying new Office will not help. It is the MacOS being the problem, not office.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/update-microsoft-365-or-office-on-your-macos-or-ios-device-f418ae5d-bb5f-4078-b3d9-9340f5dd084e

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  1. Jim Dawson 20 Reputation points
    2026-07-15T01:47:55.84+00:00

    Where's the answer?

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