Share via

I purchased a perpetual license for Microsoft Office 2021 (one-time purchase, not a subscription) and its not working

Chris Poirier 0 Reputation points
2026-02-05T16:48:51.4133333+00:00

I purchased a perpetual license for Microsoft Office 2021 (one-time purchase, not a subscription).

The software was functioning normally until February 3, 2026 at approximately 8:35 PM CST. Since that time, Office reports that it is offline and requires activation again, despite no changes to my license or usage.

This is a paid product, not a Microsoft 365 subscription, and it should not be expiring or requiring reactivation beyond standard license validation.

I have verified system date/time, confirmed internet connectivity, signed out and back into my Microsoft account, and attempted standard troubleshooting steps. The issue appears to be related to license validation or activation services, not local connectivity.

I am requesting assistance restoring proper activation for the Office 2021 license I purchased. Please let me know what you need to resolve this issue

Thank you

Microsoft 365 and Office | Other
0 comments No comments
{count} votes

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. DaveM121 848.8K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-02-05T17:23:40.5733333+00:00

    Log into your Microsoft account on this link, do you find your Office 2021 licence linked correctly to your Microsoft account there?

    https://account.microsoft.com/services/

    If not, what version of Office did you purchase, is that Office Home, 2021, Office Pro Plus 2021... etc.


Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.