Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
If OneDrive for Mac says “You’re already syncing this account” when you try to add an account, remove the stale OneDrive credential and two OneDrive configuration files, then restart OneDrive. Microsoft documents this as the workaround for the message. Open Keychain Access from Spotlight, delete OneDrive Cached Credential, remove UBF8T346G9.OneDriveSyncClientSuite.plist and UBF8T346G9.OfficeOneDriveSyncIntegration.plist from /Users/<username>/Library/Group Containers/, and reopen OneDrive. If the account still will not connect, unlink and relink the Mac, resolve any duplicate OneDrive installation, or uninstall and reinstall the client.
What does “You’re already syncing this account” mean?
The message means the OneDrive for Mac client believes the account you are adding is already connected. In practice, OneDrive can retain a cached sign-in credential or synchronization state even when the account is no longer usable in the current installation. Microsoft groups this message with sign-in and synchronization failures involving cached credentials.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThe wording is specific to the Mac client’s account-adding flow. A recent password change can also leave an old credential behind, so the client may need its stored sign-in state refreshed before it accepts the account again.
What should I check before changing OneDrive’s files?
Use the cleanup only after confirming that you are working on the intended Mac user account and OneDrive account. The files named below are configuration and credential records, not your synchronized documents, but selecting the wrong account or folder during relinking can create a confusing local setup.
Popular on Amazon
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Confirm the Microsoft account you intend to add, especially if you use both personal and work or school accounts.
- Check that the OneDrive folder shown in Finder is the folder you want to keep using.
- Allow any obvious pending edits to finish syncing before unlinking the Mac.
- Close OneDrive if it is open before deleting configuration files, then reopen it when the cleanup is complete.
Microsoft states that disabling, resetting, or uninstalling OneDrive does not delete your files or data; your files remain available through OneDrive.com. The client may need to synchronize again after you reconnect it.
How do I apply Microsoft’s exact Mac workaround?
These steps target the exact “You’re already syncing this account” state. Follow them in order and delete only the named items.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →1. Open Keychain Access
- Press Command-Space to open Spotlight.
- Type Keychain Access and open the macOS utility.
- Use its search field to search for OneDrive.
2. Delete the cached OneDrive credential
In the search results, locate OneDrive Cached Credential. Select that item, choose the delete command, and confirm the removal if macOS asks. This clears the stored sign-in record that can make OneDrive think the account is already attached.
3. Remove the two OneDrive property-list files
- In Finder, choose Go in the menu bar, then Go to Folder….
- Enter
/Users/<username>/Library/Group Containers/, replacing<username>with your macOS user name. - Delete
UBF8T346G9.OneDriveSyncClientSuite.plist. - Delete
UBF8T346G9.OfficeOneDriveSyncIntegration.plist.
Those are the two filenames in Microsoft’s workaround. Do not remove unrelated property-list files from the Group Containers folder.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
4. Restart OneDrive and try the account again
Open OneDrive again and sign in with the account that produced the message. The client should rebuild the credential and synchronization state. If the same message returns, continue with the recovery path below instead of repeatedly deleting the same files.
What if the cached-credential cleanup does not work?
Microsoft’s next Mac procedure is to unlink the computer, clear the credential, and then link the account again. This is more disruptive than deleting the two configuration files because the local OneDrive connection is temporarily disconnected, but it addresses a persistent account state.
Unlink and relink the Mac
- Open OneDrive’s preferences.
- Open the Account section and select Unlink this Mac.
- After unlinking, clear OneDrive Cached Credential in Keychain Access if it is still present.
- Sign in to OneDrive again with the intended account.
- If OneDrive reports that a folder already exists, choose Use this folder only when it is the correct local folder for that account.
Microsoft says changes made while the Mac is unlinked will synchronize after you relink it. Keep the Mac connected to the internet and allow the client to reconcile the local folder before moving or renaming large groups of files.
How do I handle two OneDrive installations on the same Mac?
The standalone OneDrive build and the Mac App Store build are not supported side by side. Having both can leave the account attached to one installation while you are trying to sign in through the other, producing an apparently contradictory “already syncing” message.
Also popular on Amazon
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check whether both builds are installed. If they are, choose the build you intend to keep and remove the prior installation using Microsoft’s reset script inside the OneDrive app bundle. Then install the preferred current build and sign in once. Do not alternate between the two installations while troubleshooting; that can recreate separate local configuration states.
When should I uninstall and reinstall OneDrive?
Use a reinstall after the credential cleanup, unlink-and-relink procedure, and duplicate-installation check have failed. Microsoft lists uninstalling and reinstalling as the fallback for this sign-in state.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Verify that the OneDrive account and local folder are the ones you intend to retain.
- Uninstall the current OneDrive installation using the normal macOS removal process for that build.
- Install OneDrive again from the appropriate Microsoft-supported distribution.
- Sign in and, when prompted about an existing folder, select Use this folder only if the folder belongs to the account you are connecting.
- Leave the Mac online until the initial synchronization has completed.
Microsoft says uninstalling OneDrive does not cause loss of files or data; files remain accessible through OneDrive.com. Reinstallation does require the client to establish its local synchronization state again.
Which recovery path should I choose?
Start with the least disruptive option that matches your situation. The table reflects Microsoft’s documented uses for each path.
Also popular on Amazon
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Recovery path | Best use | Relative disruption |
|---|---|---|
| Cached credential and plist cleanup | The exact “already syncing” message | Targeted |
| Unlink, clear credential, and relink | The account remains stuck after cleanup | Moderate; temporary disconnect |
| Remove a duplicate app build | Standalone and Mac App Store versions are both installed | Moderate; installation change |
| Uninstall and reinstall | Earlier remedies fail | Highest of these options |
What can go wrong during the fix?
The credential does not appear in Keychain Access
If a search for OneDrive does not show OneDrive Cached Credential, do not delete unrelated keychain entries. Proceed to check the two property-list filenames, then use the unlink-and-relink procedure. A missing entry can mean the stale credential has already been removed or is stored under a different current sign-in state.
The Group Containers folder seems hidden
The user Library is hidden in normal Finder navigation on many macOS installations. Use Go to Folder… and enter the complete path directly: /Users/<username>/Library/Group Containers/. If neither named plist exists, leave other files untouched and move to unlinking and relinking rather than guessing at similarly named files.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →OneDrive asks whether to use an existing folder
Choose Use this folder only after verifying that the folder is the intended local copy for the account being connected. If the folder belongs to another account or an old installation, stop and confirm the account before proceeding; the prompt is not a reason to select the folder automatically.
The error returns after a password change
A password change can invalidate the credential that OneDrive cached earlier. Clear the cached credential and reconnect with the new password; if the account remains attached in the client, unlink the Mac first and then sign in again.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The Mac still shows more than one OneDrive app
Do not keep both the standalone and Mac App Store versions active. Remove the prior installation with Microsoft’s reset script in the app bundle, install one supported build, and repeat the sign-in process from that single client.
How can I verify that the repair worked?
After signing in, open OneDrive’s account or sync status and confirm that the intended account is listed. Check that the expected local folder is present and that a small, noncritical file change appears online before making broad edits. This confirms that the client is connected to the right account and folder rather than merely hiding the original error.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If the message persists after a clean single installation and reinstall, record which account, OneDrive build, and local folder are involved before contacting Microsoft Support. Those details distinguish a cached-credential problem from an account or installation issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could a recent Microsoft account password change trigger this message?
Yes. Microsoft describes password changes as a situation in which stored credentials may need refreshing. Remove the old OneDrive credential and sign in with the new password; if the client still considers the account connected, unlink the Mac before reconnecting.
Is this error documented for OneDrive on Windows too?
The quoted workaround is documented for adding an account in OneDrive for Mac. Windows has different credential storage and configuration paths, so do not apply these macOS filenames or Keychain steps to a Windows installation.
What should I do if I am unsure which local folder belongs to the account?
Pause at the existing-folder prompt and compare the folder’s contents and account identity before choosing anything. Selecting Use this folder is appropriate only when that folder is the intended local sync location; otherwise, confirm the correct account and folder with Microsoft Support.
Will OneDrive.com still show my files while the Mac is disconnected?
Microsoft says your files remain available through OneDrive.com when OneDrive is disabled or uninstalled. Local changes made while the Mac is unlinked are expected to synchronize after the account is linked again.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
