Will I lose my OneDrive files after canceling Microsoft 365?

Your OneDrive storage drops to 5GB. Files exceeding this limit become read-only for 90 days, then may be deleted. Download important files first.

Can I still use Word and Excel after canceling Microsoft 365?

You lose access to desktop Office apps. You can still use the free web versions at office.com with limited features.

What happens to a Microsoft 365 Family plan when I cancel?

All family members (up to 6) lose access simultaneously at the end of the billing period. Each member should back up their OneDrive files.

How to Cancel Microsoft 365 (2026)

Microsoft 365 plans start from $1.99/month. Follow our 5-step guide to cancel your subscription in about 5 minutes — with tips to avoid retention offers.

Updated: March 2026

from $1.99/month

(≈ ZAR 32.41)

MediumYou save $19.99/year by cancelling

Estimated Time:5 minutes

Cancel Method:Website

Sign In

Go to account.microsoft.com/services and sign in with your Microsoft account

Find Subscription

Locate Microsoft 365 under Services & subscriptions

Manage

Click Manage, then select Cancel or Turn off recurring billing

Navigate Retention

Microsoft will show what you will lose and offer alternatives. Click through the retention screens

Confirm Cancellation

Click Confirm cancellation. You retain access until the end of the billing period

Retention Tips

Microsoft may offer up to 30% off or a free month to retain you. They will emphasize OneDrive storage loss (files over 5GB may become read-only). Consider downloading your OneDrive files before canceling. If on a family plan, all members lose access simultaneously.