As others, I'm devastated about losing Microsoft Publisher after I've used it a lot for 25 years. Will an activation code work after Oct 2026 if I buy the 2019 or 2021 version online?

yeah thats all well and good but what about us oldies who di not want to learn a new programme?

i cannot get my head around word to save my life and I DO NOT WANT TO WASTE THE TIME!!

im 61, publisher is so so easy, I dont need the other tricks.

I absolutely HATE OUTLOOK! i have no end of drama with it! but whats the alternative? outlook express was so much better,never had a problem.

the only other thing i use on occasion is excel!

i have just purchased a new edition of 2021, when i get it is there any reason to continue wasting $179?

will the 2021 excell work and my files open?

and can you get the awful outlook stand alone, or what can i switch to please?

any help greatly appreciated, cheers

Hello, JMolton

The official article mentions that although Publisher will no longer be supported after October 2026, if a user have a perpetual version of Publisher, the user can still install and use the application after support ends. 

For more information, see Microsoft Publisher will no longer be supported after October 2026 - Microsoft Support

So, if you used an Office 2019 or 2021 Pro perpetual license key (including Publisher) and installed and activated the Publisher application before October 2026, you will still be able to use Publisher after October 2026.

I hope my reply will help clarify the situation. Feel free to post back if you need further assistance.

Best wishes, 

Lucia Wu - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Isn’t a perpetual version still supposed to work - such as 2019 or 2021 Pro versions ? Or aren’t those considered perpetual ?

If I use an activation code soon and it’s before October 2026, will my publisher then continue to work as needed beyond that date?

Hello.JMolton

Thanks for using Microsoft products and posting in the community.

I would be honoured to help check your question.

Here's the official announcement:

Microsoft Publisher will no longer be supported after October 2026 - Microsoft Support

We regret to inform you that after October 2026. You will no longer be able to use Publisher for text editing.

You will not be able to activate Publisher with your activation code.

You can prepare for publisher shutdown in the official way.

Thank you for all your years of support and companionship, I understand how you feel, especially if you're used to using Publisher and rely on it to get your work done. Just because Publisher is ending support in 2026 doesn't mean you've lost all your options.

Understanding the reasons for change:

• Technological advances: as design tools and office software continue to evolve, many features have been replaced by more modern tools.

While saying goodbye to Publisher may feel like a loss, it's also an opportunity to explore new tools and improve your skills. We hope you find an alternative that works for you and continue to be successful in your future design work.

Best regards.

Petter.Y - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist