How to Fix It When Attachments Aren't Showing in Outlook

You may also occasionally have problems viewing attachments sent to you by others.

Here’s what to do when you might’t see attachments in Outlook.

If you cant see attachments in an email you received, close Outlook and re-open it.

Sometimes this can force theemail clientto redownload the files from the server.

Check with the sender.

It’s also possible they emailed you a link to the file instead of attaching it.

Message them and ask that they send the files again.

Look for the paperclip icon.Can’t figure out how to upload an attachment in your version of Outlook?

The option to attach files always appears as apaperclipabove or below the email compose box.

If a message contains an attachment, a paperclip will be visible in the email preview.

Drag and drop files.

Locate the file you want to attach on your machine and drag it into the compose box.

Use the pop-out option.

Select ‘Show all’.

This is so that the images dont fill up the entire screen.

SelectShow all [#] attachmentsunder the visible photos to see them all.

Check your internet connection.

Rename the file extension.

Microsoft Outlookblocks attachments containing executable file types(e.g., EXE files).

One way around this is topack the file in a ZIP archiveand send that, instead.

Disable your antivirus software.Antivirus programscan prevent email clients from loading attachments properly.

Be sure to turn your antivirus software back on after viewing the attachments.

Request changes to your Outlook security tweaks.

If youre using Outlook in a workplace environment, the security tweaks may be blocking attachments.

These prefs can especially affect those who are usingOutlook via Exchange Server.

If possible, ask the administrator or tech support to adjust the security configs for you.

Some updates are designed to fix issues, which could include problems with attachments.

Outlook limits the size of attachments to 20 MB by default.

you could also share files over VoIP services likeSkypeandLine.

A weak or overloaded internet connection can also cause attachments to not load properly.

Go toOther reply actions>Forward as attachment.

Outlook 2013 and later versions have an attachment size limit of 20MB.

you could then send a link to the file in an email.