Fix printing problems in Word, Excel, or other apps

Applies To
Windows 11 Windows 10

If you can print from Windows but not from specific apps like Word or Excel, the issue may be caused by app settings, corrupted files, outdated drivers, or Windows printing services.

Follow the below troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue:

Step 1: Try printing from another app or file

This helps determine whether the issue is app-specific.

  • Try printing a document from a different app, such as Notepad or Paint.
  • Print a different file from the same app.
  • If printing works in other apps, continue with the steps below.

Step 2: Verify the correct printer is selected in the app

Apps can default to a different or unavailable printer.

  • In the app (for example, Word or Excel), select File > Print.
  • Make sure the intended printer is selected.
  • Check that the printer status shows Ready.

Step 3: Check print settings in the app

Incorrect app-level settings can prevent printing.

  • Confirm the page size, orientation, and layout match the document and printer.
  • Make sure Print to PDF or Print to file is not selected.
  • Check the pages to print option (All pages vs. a page range).

Step 4: Print a test page from Windows 11

This helps confirm that Windows can communicate with the printer.

  1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
  2. Select your printer, then select Printer properties.
  3. On the General tab, select Print Test Page.
  4. If the test page doesn’t print, troubleshoot the printer or driver first.

Step 5: Update or repair Microsoft Office (Word and Excel)

Corrupted Office files can cause printing issues.

Repair Office:

  1. Select Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Select Microsoft 365, then select Advanced options.
  3. Select Quick Repair, and then test printing.
  4. If the issue continues, select Online Repair.

Step 6: Restart printer spooler service

The print spooler service handles print jobs and restarting this can resolve temporary issues with printer recognition.

  1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Scroll down and locate Print Spooler.
  3. Right-click on Print Spooler and select Restart.

Step 7: Update or Reinstall printer drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers may cause printer issues. Ensure that the latest printer drivers are installed.

  1. Select Start > Device Manager.
  2. In Device Manager, expand the Printers section.
  3. Right-click on your printer and select Update driver.
  4. If no update is available, select Uninstall device. After uninstallation, restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall the printer drivers automatically.

For more information, see Download and install the latest printer drivers.

Step 8: Run the automated printer troubleshooter

If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated Printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix this Printer problem.

Run the troubleshooter in Get Help

Step 9: Restart the app and your PC

Temporary app or system issues can block printing.

  1. Close the app completely.
  2. Restart your PC.
  3. Open the app again and try printing.

If you're facing a different printer issue, see Fix printer connection and printing problems in Windows.