How do I save an Excel Add-in (XLAM) file?

Excel changed the save dialog behavior slightly in newer versions, which can make it feel like you can’t save an add-in (XLAM) anymore.

If your newer Excel version (Microsoft 365 or Excel 2021) no longer shows the .xlam option in the Save As dialog.

What you can do…

Use the "Save As" Dialog Correctly

Even if the .xlam option is missing initially, you can force it:

In the Save as type dropdown, scroll to the bottom and select:

• Excel Add-In (*.xlam).
• If not visible, type *.xlam manually in the "File name" field.
• Click Save.

 Enable "Excel Add-In" in the Save As Dialog

Newer Excel versions may hide legacy formats by default. To restore visibility:

• In the Save As dialog, right-click the toolbar/header.
• Select All Files or Legacy Formats to reveal .xlam.

Check Trust Center Settings

Excel may block .xlam saves due to security policies:

• Go to File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings.
• Select File Block Settings.
• Ensure Excel Add-in Files is unchecked (not blocked).
• Click OK to save.

 Use VBA to Save the Add-In Programmatically

If the UI fails, use this VBA macro to save your file as .xlam:

Sub SaveAsAddIn()

    Dim filePath As String

    filePath = "C:\YourAddinFolder\YourAddinName.xlam"

   

    ThisWorkbook.SaveAs _

        FileName:=filePath, _

        FileFormat:=xlExcelAddIn, _

        CreateBackup:=False

   

    MsgBox "Add-in saved successfully!", vbInformation

End Sub

Repair Office Installation

If .xlam is entirely missing:

• Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
• Right-click Microsoft Office > Change > Quick Repair.
• Restart Excel and retry saving.

 Check File Associations

Ensure .xlam files are associated with Excel:

• Right-click any .xlam file > Open with > Choose another app.
• Select Excel and check Always use this app.

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