Add-in menus or buttons missing or are not working

If the add-in’s menus or the sub-menus are missing or the button that activates your add-in is not working, there are two very likely causes.

If they had been working and just stopped, then most likely the add-in was partially un-installed. It is simple to re-install:

  • If using Excel 2003, select Tools, Add-ins.
  • If using Excel 2007, select Office Button, Excel Options, Add-ins, and then click the GO button beside "Manage Excel Add-ins".
  • If using Excel 2013-2024 or Office 365, click the Green File tab, Options, Add-ins, and then click the GO button beside "Manage Excel Add-ins".

Once you do so, a small add-ins dialog will appear:

  • Re-Check the add-in if you see it in the list.
  • Click the Browse button, go to C:\PROGRAM FILES\ADD-INS. This is not the default add-ins folder.
    • If you see two C:\PROGRAM FILES, one being C:\PROGRAM FILES (X86), open the X86 one. The add-ins folder will be in it.
  • If you are using Excel 2007-2013 or Office 365, select the file "Add-in Mgr 2007-2013.xlam". Do not select any other file.
  • If you are using Excel 2003:
    • Select the file "assistnt.xla" for the Spreadsheet Assistant.
    • For the Productivity Suite, select "addinmgr.xla".
    • For others, the name should be obvious. Do not select an add-in with "Main" in the name.

If the above does not solve it, then the most likely problem is a corrupt Microsoft Excel toolbar file. This file is where Excel stores the toolbars and any menu customizations. The cure is simple: close Excel and run the XLB File Deleter. It will find and delete the toolbar file for you. Any customization you may have will be lost.

In a few rare cases, re-running the add-in’s install will fix the problem.