Publisher end of support
The dates, and what they mean for you.
| Date | What happens | Who it affects |
|---|---|---|
| 1 October 2026 | Publisher is removed from Microsoft 365 and stops opening. | Microsoft 365 subscribers |
| 13 October 2026 | Support ends for the one-off versions. They keep working, without updates. | Publisher 2021 and Office LTSC 2021 |
If you use Microsoft 365
Until 30 September you can still open your files and export them to PDF, one by one or a whole folder at a time with Microsoft's sample script. After that, you'll need another way to open them.
If you bought Publisher 2021
Publisher keeps running after 13 October, but without security updates or fixes. It's a good moment to export the files you care about while everything still works.
What to do next
Our guide covers exporting while you still can, the options if you can't, and a short checklist for checking any conversion.
What to do with your .pub files nowQuestions
Will my .pub files be deleted?
No. Your files stay where they are. What changes is whether you can still open them in Publisher.
Can I keep using Publisher 2021 after 13 October 2026?
Yes. Microsoft says the one-off versions keep working after support ends, but without updates or fixes.
What happens to Publisher in Microsoft 365?
From 1 October 2026, Microsoft 365 subscribers can no longer open Publisher.
How do I open a .pub file without Publisher?
You need a program that reads the .pub format. The guide compares the options and how to check the result.
Convert a whole folder on your own PC.
PUB Rescue turns .pub files into PDF and editable PowerPoint, offline, with a report of anything that didn't come across exactly.
Join the waitlistComing soon for Windows 10 and 11.