How to Attach Files in Teams Meeting Chat

Before you start

You can attach a file from the meeting chat window in Microsoft Teams. The chat is available before, during, and after a meeting. The file upload runs through Teams or SharePoint, not through your camera or microphone settings, so you do not need to adjust camera permission, selected camera, resolution, frame rate, or lighting to complete this task.

Use the desktop or web version of Teams for the most predictable file experience. The mobile app supports attachments, but the visible controls may differ slightly. The meeting chat must be open, and you need access to a file saved on your device or an accessible cloud location.

Step-by-step instructions

Open Teams and join the meeting, or select the meeting from your calendar. Then open the meeting chat so the message area is visible.

Find the attachment control below the message box. On desktop and web, it usually appears as a paper clip or plus icon near the formatting or send controls. On mobile, look for a plus or paper clip icon beside the text field.

Select the paper clip or plus icon and choose the file source. The exact wording depends on your version and platform. Common options include upload from this device, recent files, OneDrive, or a team channel.

Pick the file you want to share. You can add a short message in the text box if needed. Then send the message. The file appears as a card or link in the meeting chat.

For a file you no longer want to share, you can delete your chat message or remove the attachment before sending. After the file is sent, removing the message or file may be limited by your organization's retention and sharing policies.

Check the output

Confirm that the file card or link is visible in the meeting chat. Open the attachment to verify that the file opens for you and that the content is the correct version.

Be aware that large files, certain file types, or files blocked by your organization may fail to upload or may open only for permitted participants. The meeting organizer or an administrator may need to approve access to files stored in restricted locations.

Common problems and next steps

• If the attachment icon is missing, check whether the meeting chat is restricted or whether your app version hides the control behind a more options menu.
• If the upload fails, try a smaller file, a different file type, or a saved copy on your device.
• If other participants cannot open the file, confirm that the file is stored in a location shared with everyone in the meeting.
• If you are asked for camera or microphone access, decline those prompts unless you also need to use your camera or microphone; they are not required for sending a file.
• If the file appears to send but nobody can see it, check your network connection and whether the file was actually posted to the meeting chat rather than a draft.