How to Remove Copilot From Word

Quick Tips

Copilot is available on all standard (not Classic) paid Microsoft Office subscriptions but may only appear once you perform Windows updates.
You can turn off the functionality of the feature so it doesn’t interfere with your writing in Word documents.
Alternatively, you can use the cancelation option in your Microsoft Subscriptions center to find the option for a non-Copilot version of Office, including Word.

Microsoft Copilot has now become an integrated part of Office programs, including Word. While Copilot can help with drafts, generating content, and suggesting changes, some users are frustrated that they weren’t given the option to choose whether to have the AI-powered assistant or not. If you want to know how to remove Copilot from Word, there are two main options: use the options to switch the feature off or downgrade your subscription.

How to Remove Copilot From Word by Using File Options

Step 1: Open a blank Word document. You’ll see the rainbow-colored Copilot logo in the top-right corner.

Step 2: Click “File” in the top left and look for the Options button right at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3: Click Options and look for the Copilot section on the left-hand side.

Step 4: Click in the “Enable Copilot” box to remove the tick.

Step 5: Click OK, and you should now see that the Copilot icon is greyed out. You’ve successfully disabled any Copilot functionality from Word.

How to Remove Copilot From Word Via Your Microsoft Office Subscription

Step 1: Head to the Microsoft website using any browser and log in with your Microsoft account details. Once logged in, look for your name in the top-right corner and click here — this is your account section.

Step 2: Click on “Subscriptions” to see your active Microsoft Office subscription.

Step 3: Click “Manage” next to the name of your subscription and then look for the option to “Cancel subscription. Don’t worry — you’re not actually going to cancel any services.

Step 4: You should now see the option to downgrade to a non-AI version of Microsoft 365, identical to your current subscription but at a lower cost and with no access to Copilot. These plans are called “Classic” and are only available via the cancelation page. Consider carefully whether the plan is right for you and click “Switch plan” to confirm that’s what you want to do.

Step 5: Review the terms and conditions and note the switch date — Microsoft often won’t change your plan until your next billing date. In the meantime, you can use the first method to disable Copilot features in Word. Once you’re happy, click “Buy” and follow any onscreen prompts.

Step 6: Once the subscription switch is set, you’ll see this confirmation screen. From the date provided on the previous screen, you’ll no longer have access to offline Copilot features. Remember, this impacts all your Office apps, not just Word. So you’ll lose Copilot for Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and other MS apps. However, if you need the generative AI features of Copilot, you can access these online.