The Download
- Close and reopen Outlook if attachments aren’t showing; this might reload the missing files.
- Make sure the sender actually attached the files or didn’t forget to include them.
- Check your internet connection, as attachments might not load if you’re offline.
Sometimes it can be difficult to confirm whether you’ve correctly attached a file to an Outlook email. You might also face issues viewing attachments sent by others. Here’s what to do when you can’t see attachments in Outlook.
Instructions in this article apply to Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, and 2010, as well as Outlook.com and Outlook for Microsoft 365.
How to Fix Attachments Not Showing in Outlook
Try these tips if you’re having trouble adding or viewing email attachments in Outlook:
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Reload Outlook. If you can’t see attachments in an email you received, close Outlook and open it again. This process can sometimes force the email client to redownload files from the server.
Refreshing the app is also helpful if you’re unable to attach files to an email you want to send.
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Check with the sender. The original sender might have uploaded the files incorrectly or forgotten to attach them to the email. They may have sent you a link instead of attaching the file. Contact them to resend the files if needed.
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Look for the paperclip icon. Having trouble finding how to upload an attachment in your version of Outlook? The attach file option typically appears as a paperclip icon either above or below the email compose box
If a message contains an attachment, a paperclip will be visible in the email preview.
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Drag and drop files. If you can’t find the attachment option, you can attach files by dragging and dropping them into Outlook. Locate the file on your computer and drag it into the compose box.
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Use the pop-out option. If you’re trying to view attachments in an email while composing a reply, select the pop-out option in the compose box, which usually looks like a small arrow. This allows you to see the original email and attachments while composing your message in a separate window.
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Select ‘Show all’.  While reading emails on Outlook.com, you might notice that not all photo attachments are initially visible. This limitation prevents the images from occupying the entire screen. Select Show all [#] attachments below the visible photos to view them all.
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Check your internet connection. Your app might have downloaded the email text while you were online, but if you’re currently offline, the attachments likely won’t load. Ensure your device is connected to the internet (Wi-Fi or your data plan), and try opening the email again.
If you’re experiencing slow internet, particularly if it’s a recent issue, addressing that should resolve the problem of attachments not loading.
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Rename the file extension. Microsoft Outlook blocks attachments containing executable file types (e.g., EXE files), which is crucial for security. This can be inconvenient if you’re trying to send a safe file.
You can pack the file in a ZIP archive and send it instead. Alternatively, ask the sender to rename the file before sending it; you’ll need to change the file back to its original extension when you receive it.
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Disable your antivirus software. Antivirus programs can stop email clients from loading attachments correctly. While this is usually beneficial, as attachments are often a virus entry point, they can sometimes block legitimate files.
Be sure to turn your antivirus software back on after viewing the attachments.
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Request changes to your Outlook security settings. In a workplace, the security settings in Outlook may block attachments, especially for those using Outlook via Exchange Server. If possible, ask your administrator or tech support to adjust these settings for you.
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Update Outlook. While this isn’t needed for the online version, you should keep Outlook up to date if you’re using the desktop app. Some updates specifically address issues like problems with attachments.
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Use a different method. This workaround might become your preferred way to share attachments
Outlook limits attachment sizes to 20 MB by default. If you need to send large files, like movies, software, or entire photo albums, use a file sharing service.
Similarly, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and other texting apps allow you to send files with just a few taps. You can also share files over VoIP services like Line.
Causes of Missing Outlook Attachments
When attachments aren’t visible in Outlook, the issue is usually tied to app settings, antivirus programs, or device limitations. A weak or overloaded internet connection can also cause attachments to not load properly.
FAQ
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How do I forward an email as an attachment in Outlook?
To forward an email as an attachment in Outlook, open the email you want to forward and select the three-dot menu next to the subject line. Go to Other reply actions > Forward as attachment. In the To box, enter the email address you’re forwarding to, type a message if you want, and select Send.
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How do I make an email attachment in Outlook?
To attach a file to an email in Outlook, go to Message > Attach File or Insert > Attach File, depending on your Outlook version. Select your document, image, text, or other type of file to attach it to the message.
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How big of an attachment can you send with Outlook?
Outlook 2013 and later versions have an attachment size limit of 20MB. If you need to send a larger file, upload the attachment to a cloud service like OneDrive or Dropbox. You can then send a link to the file in an email.
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