Microsoft has announced that it will end support for Office 2019 for Mac starting October 15, 2023. After this date, users of the standalone version of the Office suite will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft.
This move is part of Microsoft's ongoing strategy to push users toward its subscription-based Microsoft 365 service, which offers continuous updates and cloud integration. Office 2019 was a one-time purchase option, and its end of support means that for ongoing security and compliance, users are encouraged to transition to a Microsoft 365 subscription.
“To keep your documents secure and to have the latest features, we recommend moving to Microsoft 365 for Mac,” the company stated in a support document. Microsoft 365 for Mac includes access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, with regular updates.
For those who continue using Office 2019 for Mac after the cutoff, Microsoft warns that the software will still function, but it will become increasingly vulnerable to security risks without patches. The company also notes that online services connected to older versions, such as OneDrive, may stop working properly over time.
This affects only the Mac version of Office 2019; the Windows version, which entered extended support in October 2022, will continue to receive security updates until October 2025 under Microsoft's Fixed Lifecycle Policy.
To check which version of Office you are using on Mac, go to the app menu (e.g., Word), select "About [App]", and look for the version number. Users running Office 2019 for Mac are advised to back up their files and consider upgrading before the deadline.