Copilot in Excel

Question

Hi all

I keep receiving what seems like an error message when attempting to use Copilot today. It has worked fine in the past week, but today it keeps saying the following

Step 1

I'd be happy to help you create a summary by person, but I wasn't able to access your document.

OR

I'm not able to answer that. What else can I do for you?

Any advice as files saved in exact same place as yesterday

Thanks

Answer 1

The behavior indicates Copilot in Excel cannot access the workbook rather than a general feature failure. Based on the documented causes, check these points:

1. Verify the file is not checked out in SharePoint
   • If the workbook is stored in SharePoint and is checked out, Copilot in Excel on Windows/Mac cannot work with it.
   • In the SharePoint document library, check the file back in, then close and reopen it in Excel.
   • If check-in is not possible, open the file in Excel for the web and use Copilot there.
2. Confirm the file format is supported
   • Copilot requires a modern Excel format such as Excel Workbook (.xlsx).
   • If the file is in an unsupported format (for example, Strict Open XML Spreadsheet), save a copy as .xlsx and use that with Copilot.
3. Check for license or location-related issues
   • If a message appears about license validation or similar, confirm the signed-in account has a valid Copilot license and that the file is stored in OneDrive or SharePoint rather than a third‑party storage location.
   • If the file is on third‑party storage and you see license or access issues, copy or move it to OneDrive or SharePoint and try Copilot again.

If the same files worked yesterday and now fail, it is often due to a change in check‑out status, storage location, or account/license being used.

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References:

• Frequently asked questions about Copilot in Excel
• I am getting license validation errors with Copilot