ERROR: Excel cannot open file because the file format or extension is not valid

Question

I am not able to open any of my Excel spreadsheets.  The following error is noted:

Excell cannot open the file because the file format or file extension is not valid.  Verify tht the file has not been corrupted and that the file extension matches the format of the file.

JL

Answer 1

You haven't told us what version of Excel or Windows you are using.

It usually helps us to help you if we know.

What is the file extension of the file(s) you are trying to open?

The extension is the letters after the . in the filename (usually xls or xlsx etc)

(If the extension doesn't show in Windows Explorer, Organise > Folder and search options > View > uncheck Hide extensions for known file types)

Answer 2

The first step in fixing these kind of problems is to Repair the installation as you are facing problems with all Excel files not with few.

Repair your installation by going to Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs (You can directly go there by typing appwiz.cpl in search box above Windows Start and hitting enter). When you select office, it will give you the option to repair.

If repair doesn't work (in most cases, it would), let us know.

Answer 3

I have very similar issue.  When I open  Excel  I get this pop up message: Skydrive (nor are the documents/spreadsheets in Onedrive )  is Not where my Excel files are located.   The file extension is valid  (XLSX) .  I am using  Office 2010 Professional. Windows 8.1 Pro.   I cannot open any Excel documents.  Problem occurred sometime between  6/18/2014  and 7/9/2014.  Have tried Excel Repair twice,, didn't  solve issue.  Also made two attempts to post  error message, added to this description,  and both times  when  clicked "submit button the error message  did not follow.  Help PLEASE !