Cannot Open Microsoft Word on Mac? Fix 'User Does Not Have Access Privileges' Error

Microsoft Word is a widely used word processor all over the world. However, users may encounter different kinds of issues while using it, such as receiving an error message saying 'Word cannot open the document: user does not have access privileges.' This problem can happen on both Windows and Mac.

When you try to open a Word file, you may receive this error message if you don't have the ownership of the Word file. The issue is quite common and can be frustrating for users who rely heavily on Microsoft Word for their work or personal projects.

To fix this problem, we'll provide you with several methods to change the Word file permissions and resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error on both Windows and Mac.

Method 1: Change the Word File Permissions

One of the simplest ways to fix the issue is to change the Word file permissions. To do so:

Right-click on the Word file and select Properties.

In the Properties window, click on the 'Security' tab.

Click on the 'Edit' button next to the 'Group or user names' field.

Select your username from the list and check the box next to 'Full Control.'

Click 'Apply' and then 'OK.'

By following these steps, you can take ownership of the Word document and resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

Method 2: Change the Word File Deny Permissions

Another method to fix the issue is to change the Word file deny permissions. To do so:

Right-click on the Word file and select Properties.

In the Properties window, click on the 'Security' tab.

Click on the 'Edit' button next to the 'Group or user names' field.

Select your username from the list and uncheck the box next to 'Deny' for the permissions you want to grant.

Click 'Apply' and then 'OK.'

By changing the Word file deny permissions, you can resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

Method 3: Remove Properties and Personal Information

Sometimes, properties and personal information may be set on the Word file, which can prevent it from opening. To remove these:

Right-click on the Word file and select Properties.

In the Properties window, click on the 'Details' tab.

Click on the 'Remove Properties' button.

Click 'OK' to confirm.

By removing properties and personal information, you may be able to resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

Method 4: Check Your Anti-Virus Software

Anti-virus software can sometimes flag Word files as infected, which can prevent them from opening. To check your anti-virus software:

Open your anti-virus software and scan the Word file.

If the file is flagged as infected, try moving it to a different location on your computer or external hard drive.

By checking your anti-virus software, you may be able to resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

Method 5: Move All the Word Files to Another Drive

Moving all your Word files to another drive can sometimes resolve the issue. To do so:

Connect an external hard drive or move your Word files to a different location on your computer.

Try opening the Word file from the new location.

By moving all your Word files to another drive, you may be able to resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

Method 6: Change the Inherit from Parent Entries Option

This method involves changing the inherit from parent entries option. To do so:

Right-click on the Word file and select Properties.

In the Properties window, click on the 'Security' tab.

Click on the 'Advanced' button next to the 'Permissions' field.

Check the box next to 'Replace all child object permissions entries with inheritable permissions entries from this object.'

Click 'Apply' and then 'OK.'

By changing the inherit from parent entries option, you may be able to resolve the 'user does not have access privileges' error.

In conclusion, the 'user does not have access privileges' error can happen when you don't have ownership of a Word file. By following these methods, you should be able to change the Word file permissions and resolve the issue on both Windows and Mac.

Cannot open microsoft word on mac