Cannot print from Word for Mac on Word version 16.106

Question

Since updating to Tahoe 26.3, I can do anything on Word EXCEPT print. The print icon looks like it is clicking when I activate it with my mouse, but no printer communication box shows - it's as if nothing was done. I tried the menu print option as a backup, but absolutely no response from my computer to indicate that I ever clicked anything (the menu worked, but did not activate any printing dialogue box).

Answer 1

Printing is s service of the operating system in conjunction with the printer's device driver. It isn't uncommon for new generations of the OS to have such glitches which do not necessarily affect all programs — each addresses its own requirements.

Please see this Apple KB regarding driver updates, resetting & reinstalling the print system:

Troubleshoot Printing

Answer 2

Hi Meredith Alliston

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A Forum and sharing your experience.

Since this started after updating to macOS Tahoe 26.3, please begin by restarting your Mac, then try printing again from Word.

If the issue only occurs in the desktop app, please try opening the document in Word for the web and printing directly from the browser as a temporary workaround.

Next, reset the macOS printing system, as Word relies on the macOS print framework:

• On your Mac, go to Apple menu > System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
• Control‑click a printer in the Printers list and select Reset Printing System. If no printers are listed, Control‑click the empty area and choose Reset Printing System.
• Restart your Mac and test printing again.

If the issue persists after these steps, please confirm whether printing works in a new blank document and in other apps or other Office apps.

Please let me know how things go on your side as your update can also assist others in the community who may be facing the same issue.

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Answer 3

Word documents print in color by default unless the printer is configured otherwise or is not color-capable. Word doesn't make the determination.

In the Print dialog there should be a setting or switch labeled eith4r Color, Grayscale, or Black& White. The wording varies based on the printer's driver as does the location of the setting [HP's are often well hidden in the Printer Options] but it should be similar to this screenshot from my Epson: