Excel Print Button Grayed Out After Printing: Fix

Who Is Affected and What Fixes It

This issue affects Microsoft Excel users who find the Print button grayed out (dithered) inside the File > Print menu after completing a print job. This is a known Microsoft Excel bug with no permanent fix yet. Two temporary workarounds let you continue printing right away while you wait for Microsoft to release a patch.

Workaround 1: Use the Keyboard Shortcut

Instead of clicking the grayed-out Print button, press Ctrl + P on your keyboard.
The Print menu will open normally.
Complete your print job as usual.

Workaround 2: Switch Printers to Re-enable the Button

Open File > Print in Excel.
Click the printer selector and choose a different printer from the list.
Switch back to your original printer.
The Print button should now be active again and ready to use.

Important Notes

These workarounds provide temporary relief but do not resolve the underlying problem. Check for Microsoft Excel updates regularly, as a future patch may correct this behavior permanently. If the issue persists or disrupts your work, contact ACS for assistance.

Common questions

Why is the Print button grayed out in Excel after I print?

This is a known bug in Microsoft Excel. After a print job, the Print button in the File > Print menu can become dithered (grayed out), preventing further printing through that button. Microsoft is aware of the issue and a fix is pending.

What is the fastest way to print in Excel when the Print button is disabled?

Press Ctrl + P on your keyboard. This opens the Print menu and bypasses the grayed-out button, allowing you to complete your print job normally.

Will switching printers actually fix the grayed-out Print button in Excel?

It works as a temporary workaround. Select a different printer in the File > Print menu, then switch back to your original printer. This reactivates the Print button for your next print job, though the problem may return after printing again.