Are you having trouble starting the Excel 2013 application? This article provides information on the possible causes for startup issues in Excel 2013, as well as steps you can take to correct the problem.

Why can’t I start Excel 2013?

  • A corrupted shortcut to Excel 2013

  • A conflict with another program

  • Problematic file in the Excel startup folder or alternate startup file location

  • Incorrect version of a core Microsoft Office file

  • Corrupted Excel toolbar file (*.xlb) or Excel .pip file

  • Corrupted add-ins

  • Corrupted registry keys

  • Other problems that occur when opening Excel files

Updating Windows

It’s a good idea to make sure your computer has the latest updates installed for Windows. Updates often fix problems that occur with software. Before using the repair steps below, try installing updates, restarting your computer, and then launching Excel. You can use the Update your computer article for more information about manual updates and automatic updates.

If you continue to experience a problem or receive a “stopped working” error, move to the next sections to troubleshoot and repair Excel.

I’ll Fix it Myself

These steps will correct issues with corrupted add-ins.

  1. Start Excel in Safe mode by going to the Windows 8 Start screen and clicking Run.

  2. Type excel /safe in the dialog box.

If Excel starts in Safe mode, begin disabling add-ins one at a time.

  1. Click on the File tab and then click Options.

  2. When the Options menu appears, click on Add-Ins.

  3. Click Go next to the Manage list at the bottom of the menu.

  4. Uncheck one of the add-ins, and then click OK.

  5. Restart the application, but do not use Safe mode.

If Excel starts without a problem, the issue is with the add-in you disabled. If Excel does not start, repeat steps 1-7 until all add-ins are disabled.

What if Excel 2013 doesn’t start in Safe mode or after add-ins are disabled?

If Excel 2013 will not start in Safe mode, or all add-ins are disabled and Excel still does not start, there could be a conflict with another program. You may need to start Windows in Safe mode or different advanced troubleshooting modes so that you can find and fix the problem. The Windows Startup Settings article can help you with Windows safe mode, or you can contact support.

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.