Summary
Office 2021 hits end of support Oct 13, 2026 — no more updates, security fixes, or tech support.
Post-EOL, you’ll lose security patches, bug fixes, phone/chat support, and most online help content.
Microsoft urges switching to Microsoft 365; alternatives: buy Office 2024 or move to another suite.
One of the biggest arguments people make for purchasable Office licenses over a subscription model is that, in theory, the former is a “pay once, own forever” kind of deal. And it is; nothing removes your ability to use Office forever. The problem is more so with Microsoft’s desire to support it forever, and despite how people would prefer that it did, it has a habit of adding end-of-life (EOL) dates to its software.
Office 2021 is approaching its own EOL date soon, after which the software will receive no more patches. Microsoft has sent out a warning for all those still using it, and if you’re on the hunt for something to replace it, the Redmond giant would love to give its thoughts on the matter.
Microsoft warns about Office 2021’s EOL date while also nudging people toward 365
There are still a few months left
As spotted by Windows Latest, Microsoft has updated its documentation covering Office 2021’s EOL date. In case you’re unaware, Microsoft is pulling the plug on supporting Office 2021 on October 13th, 2026. Past that date, you can still use the software, but Microsoft states that the following will also happen:
Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, bug fixes, or security fixes for Office 2021 vulnerabilities which may be subsequently reported or discovered. This includes security updates which can help protect your PC from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.
You’ll no longer receive Office 2021 software updates.
You’ll no longer receive phone or chat technical support.
No further updates to support content will be provided and most online help content will be retired.
So, what are people still using Office 2021 to do? Well, Microsoft has a grand idea it wants to share with you: subscribing to Microsoft 365. However, you do have the option of upgrading to Office 2024 or, if you’re feeling brave, swapping to an alternative suite.