Word could not create the work file. check the temp environment variable

Question

Hello, I have a user who has the below error every time they single click on a Word document in File Explorer to preview it - it doesn't appear in the preview pane unless the error box is closed.

"Word could not create the work file. check the temp environment variable"

I have followed all of the suggested tips in the below link -
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/office/troubleshoot/office-suite-issues/no-file-previews-file-explorer-switching-to-32-bit?source=docs

however the issue is still prevalent. I have also tried an Online Office Repair and still no luck. Could someone assist me with this please?

I have checked the associated file types & also checked that the default programme for docx. and doc. are Word. Very frustrated user as well as myself!

thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Hi @Sarah Woodall,

To avoid adverse effects on your business, I would suggest contact Microsoft support if none of the steps listed in the article is helpful in your scenario. MS experts will have a remote session with you, collect and analyze logs on your devices and help you resolve this issue ASAP.

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