Word could not create the work file

Word could not create the work file

PROBLEM

  • When saving a document in Microsoft Word, you receive the following error message: “Word could not create the work file. Check the Temp environment variable.”

CAUSE

The Temporary Internet Files folder for Windows Internet Explorer is set to a location where you do not have permission to create new temporary files.

SOLUTION

Change the location for the Temporary Internet Files folder for Internet Explorer

  1. In Internet Explorer, click Internet Options on the Tools menu.
  2. In the Internet Options dialog box, click the General tab.
  3. In the Browsing history section, click Settings.
  4. In the Temporary Internet Files and History Settings dialog box, click Move Folder.
  5. In the Browse for Folder dialog box, select the following location: <Drive:>\Users\<user name>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files.
    • Note AppData is a hidden folder.
  6. Click OK to close the open dialog boxes.
  7. Restart the computer.