How to Insert a Checkbox in Word (2026)
Word has two kinds of checkbox: a clickable one (a content control you tick on screen, for digital forms) and a non-clickable one (a checkbox bullet for lists you’ll print). Here’s both, plus how to make the clickable box show an X or a ✓.
1. Add a Clickable Checkbox (Developer Tab)
First turn on the Developer tab:
- File > Options > Customize Ribbon.
- In the right column, check Developer, then click OK. (On Mac: Word > Preferences > Ribbon & Toolbar > check Developer.)
Then insert the checkbox:
- Click where you want it.
- On the Developer tab, click the Check Box Content Control (the checked-box icon).
- Click the box in your document to toggle it on or off.
2. Add a Non-Clickable Checkbox (for Printing)
For a checklist you’ll print and tick by hand:
- Select your list.
- Home tab > click the arrow next to the Bullets button.
- Choose Define New Bullet > Symbol.
- Pick a box symbol (font Wingdings, character
qis an empty box) and click OK.
Each list item now starts with a checkbox bullet.
3. Change the Checked Symbol
For a clickable control, set what “checked” looks like:
- Click the checkbox, then Developer > Properties.
- Next to Checked symbol, click Change and pick a ✓ or X.
- Click OK.
4. Word for the Web
Word for the web can’t insert clickable content-control checkboxes. Use the non-clickable symbol/bullet method above, or build the form in the desktop app.
5. Troubleshooting
There’s no Developer tab
It’s hidden by default. Enable it via File > Options > Customize Ribbon (or Preferences on Mac).
My checkbox won’t tick when clicked
You inserted a symbol bullet, not a content control. Use the Check Box Content Control on the Developer tab for a clickable box.
Checkboxes disappear when shared
Save as .docx and share the file itself. Content controls don’t survive copy-paste into email or some web apps.
The box shows an X instead of a check
Open Developer > Properties and set the Checked symbol to a ✓.
Related Word guides: How to add a drop-down list · How to create a table · How to insert a check mark · How to add comments · How to do a mail merge
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