Forum Discussion

Polymer3's avatar
Polymer3
Copper Contributor
Aug 31, 2021

File Failed to Upload

Hi,

 

We have a form that we use for overtime, where an excel (.xls) template is uploaded and submitted via MS Forms.

 

For some users, when they try to add the form to the upload question, they get a error response saying upload failed.

For other users (exactly the same licenses and privileges) it works just fine.

 

It should be noted that its a group form feeding into a SharePoint, which the user does not have access to (only the managers do, so that they can see the request details) - but the majority of users submitting the form also do not have access to the SharePoint, so that cannot be the issue.

 

Thank you in advanced!

microsoft forms

2 Replies

  • NikolinoDE's avatar
    NikolinoDE
    Platinum Contributor
    Jun 11, 2026

    Since most users can upload without issues, it’s very unlikely to be a problem with the form itself or with SharePoint permissions – the upload process doesn’t rely on those.

    The most common reasons for this kind of “failed to upload” error are file type restrictions, browser hiccups, or local security settings. Here’s what I’d suggest trying, in order:

    1. Save the file as .xlsx (instead of .xls). Older .xls files are more likely to be blocked by security filters.
    2. Open the form in an incognito/private window (Edge or Chrome). This clears any stuck session or cache issues.
    3. Simplify the file name – use something short like overtime.xlsx, with no special characters (#, %, &, etc.).
    4. If possible, try from a different network (e.g., mobile hotspot) to rule out any local firewall or proxy interference.

    If none of these help, there might be a Conditional Access policy or endpoint security rule affecting only certain users. In that case I’d recommend involving IT to check the Azure AD sign-in logs from the moment the upload failed – they can quickly spot any policy that blocked it.

     

    My answers are voluntary and without guarantee!

     

    Hope this will help you.

     

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