5 Ways to Fix Can’t Add Attachments in Microsoft Outlook for Windows

Pankil is a Civil Engineer turned freelance writer. Since his arrival at Guiding Tech in 2021, he delves into the world of how-tos, and troubleshooting guides for Android, iOS, and Windows. Besides his new-found love for mechanical keyboards, he’s a disciplined footfall fan and loves international travel with his wife.

Supreeth is passionate about technology and dedicates himself to helping people figure it out. An engineer by education, his understanding of the inner workings of all types of gadgets and devices ensures he provides top-notch guidance, tips, and recommendations to his readers. When away from the desk, you will find him traveling, playing FIFA, or hunting for a good movie.

Fix 1: Check the Attachment File Size

The maximum file size allowed for attachments in Outlook and Gmail is 20MB, while business emails are usually limited to 10MB. If your attachments exceed this limit, you will receive an error message: The following files couldn’t be attached. Hence, it is a good idea to check the attachment file size before trying anything else.

If the file size exceeds the allowable limit, consider compressing it orsending it via a cloud storage platformsuch as Google Drive or OneDrive.

Fix 2: Check if Outlook Supports Attachment File Format

Although Outlook supports nearly every popular file format available, it doesn’t support all of them. For security reasons, Outlook doesn’t allow users to send executable files (.exe) or script files (.vbs, .js).

You can refer to Microsoft’s website to viewa list of file types that Outlook doesn’t support. If your file is in an unsupported format, one possible solution is tochange the file’s extensionto one that Outlook supports. After receiving it, you can ask the recipient to revert the file’s extension to its original format.

Also, keep Outlook updated if Microsoft enables new file support.

Fix 3: Resize Image Attachments

Outlook’s built-in image resizer can be used to send images without using a ZIP or RAR.

Step 1:When composing a new email, attach the files.

Step 2:Click onFile>Info> selectResize large images when I send this messageradio button.

Outlook will automatically resize the images to a maximum of 1024X768 pixels. Anything smaller remains untouched.

Fix 4: Run Outlook in Safe Mode

Running Outlook in safe mode allows the app to run without any add-ins. This can help determine if a faulty add-in prevents you from adding attachments.

Hold down theCTRLkey and double-click theOutlook shortcutto open it in safe mode. After Outlook opens in safe mode, add attachments to your email. If it works, one of the third-party add-ins may be causing the issue.

Next, disable all Outlook add-ins and re-enable them one at a time to find the one causing the issue.

Step 1:Click on theFilemenu at the top of the Outlook app.

Step 2:Use the left pane to navigate toOptions.

Step 3:Switch to theAdd-ins tabin the Outlook Options window. Use thedrop-down menunext to Manage > selectCOM Add-ins.Then, click on theGobutton next to it.

Step 4:Clear all thecheckboxesto disable add-ins and clickOK.

Restart Outlook in normal mode and enable your add-ins one by one until the problem occurs again. Once you find the faulty add-in, consider removing it.

Fix 5: Run the Office Repair Tool

If you still can’t attach files in the Outlook app, try running the Office repair tool on Windows as a last resort. This tool can automatically find and fix any issues with your Office apps, including Outlook.

Step 1:Typeappwiz.cplin theRun(Win + R) prompt, and pressEnter.

Step 2:Locate and selectMicrosoft Office SuiteorMicrosoft 365on the list. Then, click theChangeoption at the top.

Step 3:SelectQuick Repairand hit Repair.

Note: If the problem persists, Microsoft suggests performing theOnline Repairinstead. This process may take a little longer, but it’s likely to fix the issue.

Alternatively, you can achieve this by going toWindows Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > Microsoft 365 (Office) > Advanced optionsand choosingRepair.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 23 April, 2024

Leave a ReplyCancel reply

Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*

Name*

Email*

Comment*

Δ

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

More in Windows

5 Ways to Fix Quick Access Not Working on Windows 11

How to Stop Teams From Opening on Startup (or Uninstall It)

JOIN THE NEWSLETTER

Get Guiding Tech articles delivered to your inbox.

© 2024 Guiding Tech Media. All Rights Reserved.