Microsoft Word, Error Code 1303

Question

I just want to use microsoft word to write a letter. I paid for Microsoft word in Feb 2026 using my Apple account, , unfortunately for some reason recently after working for several months, it is unable to link my purchase to my email account so I am unable to use the product. I am getting error code 1303. I have been trying for 3 weeks to get help, unfortunately both apple and your support helplines are a complete waste of time. It is impossible to speak to someone. Thank you for treating myself and your customers like dirt.

I don't want to cancel my subscription, I just want to write A letter using word. A the moment a pen and paper are more advanced than what microsoft and apple can provide me. how do we fix this problem?

Is there a phone number I can call that a real person will answer, and not some AI bot that will direct me to a website that doesn't work. Is there any way I can be treated like a human?

regards

Peter

+65 94216830

Answer 1

Hello @Peter Muldoon

I understand the frustration, especially since Word was working previously and you purchased the subscription through Apple.

Because you purchased Microsoft 365 through the Apple App Store, Apple manages the subscription billing, but Word still needs to link that purchase to the Microsoft account used in the app. Microsoft specifically provides a Restore Previous Purchase option for Microsoft 365 subscriptions purchased through Apple.

Microsoft - Restore a previous purchase for Office for Mac

In Word on your Mac, sign out of the Microsoft account, close all Office apps, reopen Word, and sign back in to the Microsoft account originally associated with the purchase. Then look for Restore Previous Purchase and make sure you're also signed into the Mac App Store with the same Apple Account used to purchase the subscription.

You can verify the Apple subscription under System Settings → Apple Account → Media & Purchases → Subscriptions. If Microsoft 365 shows as active there but Word still gives error 1303 after restoring the purchase, the next step should be Microsoft activation support rather than purchasing another subscription.

Microsoft Contact Support

Also, Peter, I recommend removing your telephone number from this public Q&A post for privacy. Microsoft support staff do not need your phone number posted publicly to troubleshoot the activation issue.

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