How to remove the attachments field from a SharePoint list’s new item form

If you’ve ever tried to create a new item on a SharePoint list, you may have noticed that the form always includes an Attachments field that can’t be hidden like other columns. If your process doesn’t require attachments or you’d like to prevent users from uploading documents to the list, you’re likely wondering how to get past this obstacle.

Note
Be aware that if users previously utilized the Attachments field, this action would delete all attachments they’ve already uploaded on all list items.

In this post, I’ll highlight the 5 simple steps involved in removing the attachments field for a list’s new item form.

How to remove the attachments field from a list’s new item form

1. Click Settings | List Settings

2. Select Advanced settings

3. Set the Attachments radio button to Disabled

4. Click OK

5. You’ll receive a warning making sure you’re aware that this action deletes all attachments (if there are any). Click OK.

And that’s it! Now your forms will only show fields you’ve created and configured.

If you’re not able to access or modify List settings, you may not have high enough permissions to modify the list. Check with your site owner to see if they can assist.

Here’s a video demonstration of the steps in this post:

When should I use attachments in lists?

Attachments are secondary to the list/form data itself and should be used for specific business processes, such as attaching receipts for reimbursement requests or perhaps photos or screenshots for facility or issue trackers. If the document is independently important, it should be stored in a document library.

Also keep in mind that attachments don’t have version history, cannot be renamed or reorganized without downloading/re-uploading, and they are not searchable in Microsoft 365. If you need to search for attachments, you should store them in a document library instead of a list – and you can always use a lookup column or hyperlink column to connect the list and library.

References and further reading

• Add attachments to SharePoint lists | Microsoft Power Apps | Microsoft Learn
• Why you should never use SharePoint lists for storing files and attachments | SharePoint Maven