Hi Jack Mullen
Welcome to Microsoft Q&A Forum. Thanks for reaching out and sharing your concern.
If you need to delete an Excel or Word file from the Files section, the steps may vary depending on where the file is saved. To proceed, please refer to the steps that correspond with your file’s location.
If you're working in File Explorer on Windows:
- Open the folder that contains the file.
- Right-click the file and select Delete, or select it and press the Delete key.
If the file is stored in OneDrive or a SharePoint site (common in Microsoft 365 for Business):
- Locate the file under the Files section via OneDrive or SharePoint in your browser.
- Click the three dots (⋯) next to the file > Delete.
Permissions note: You can only delete a file if you have the appropriate permissions. You don’t need to be the site owner, but you must have at least “Edit” permission on the file or folder.
To check your permission level: Click the three dots (⋯) next to the file > Manage access.
For further details, you may find this official article helpful: Delete a file from Microsoft 365.
Please note: Deleted files go to the Recycle Bin (on Windows or OneDrive), where they can be restored unless permanently deleted. Most Recycle Bins retain deleted items for a limited time (typically 30 days) before automatic removal.
I truly appreciate your inquisitive mindset. Hope the details provided will assist you effectively.
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