Starting on July 13th, Microsoft is ceasing support for Office 2019 for Mac. Users of the software won’t be able to edit or save documents, as a certificate that validates licenses has expired.

The company’s initial statement in 2023 suggested that all Office 2019 apps would continue functioning, but this was quietly retracted. Now, users will need to purchase Office 2024 or subscribe to Microsoft 365 if they want continued use of the applications.

Office 2019 for Mac and its newer sibling, Office 2021 for Mac, will both fall into “reduced functionality mode,” allowing files to be opened but not edited. This affects Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and OneNote. Microsoft is providing a certificate update for Office 2021 which remains supported until October 13th, 2026, but this is of no help to the older software.

The move highlights the ongoing issue in tech: software companies frequently end support, leaving users with few options other than upgrading or switching. It’s a particularly stark reminder for those who have paid one-off license fees and now find their investment rendered less useful over time.