How to Get the Product Key for Microsoft Word
If you've lost your Microsoft Word product key, don't panic. Whether you're reinstalling Office or activating a new device, we'll show you how to retrieve your license key quickly.
Where to Find Your Microsoft Word Product Key
Your 25-character product key is typically found in one of these locations:
- Email receipt from Microsoft or retailer
- Physical card or Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
- Microsoft account dashboard
- Registry editor (for installed versions)
- Third-party key finder tools
Method 1: Check Your Microsoft Account
If you purchased Office digitally:
- Sign in to account.microsoft.com
- Go to Services & Subscriptions
- Find your Office purchase
- Click 'Install' to view product details
Method 2: Search Your Email
Search your inbox for:
- "Microsoft Office purchase confirmation"
- "Your product key"
- From: microsoft.com or the retailer (Amazon, Best Buy, etc.)
Method 3: Use PowerShell (For Installed Versions)
For Office 2016/2019/365 already installed:
- Open PowerShell as Administrator
- Paste:
(Get-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Registration\*").DigitalProductId - Convert the output using an online ProductID decoder
Method 4: Third-Party Key Finder Tools
Tools like Belarc Advisor or ProduKey can scan your system for installed product keys. Always download from official sources.
What If You Can't Find Your Key?
If you purchased from Microsoft:
- Contact Microsoft Support with proof of purchase
- Retail customers may need to contact the original seller
- Consider subscribing to Microsoft 365 for cloud-based activation
FAQs
Is the Word key separate from Office?
No - Microsoft Word uses your Office suite product key. Standalone Word hasn't been sold since 2013.
Can I reuse my product key?
Retail keys can be transferred to new devices. OEM keys are tied to the original PC.
What does a Microsoft product key look like?
25 characters in this format: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX