📧 How to Forward Emails Inline (Not as Attachments) in Microsoft Outlook

When forwarding an email in Microsoft Outlook, users sometimes notice that the original message is sent as an attachment — typically as a .eml file. However, many modern email servers block .eml and .zip attachments due to security policies, causing such forwarded emails to bounce or get rejected.

To ensure smooth delivery, users should forward emails inline, meaning the original message appears within the body of the new email.

Why Forwarding Inline Matters

💡 Key Point: Many corporate and cloud email servers block .eml and .zip files as a security precaution. Forwarding messages inline avoids these formats, ensuring your email reaches its destination without rejection.

📍 Steps to Forward Email Inline in Outlook (Windows/Desktop App)

1. Open Microsoft Outlook.
2. Click File > Options.
3. In the Outlook Options window, select Mail.
4. Scroll to the Replies and Forwards section.
5. Under When forwarding a message, choose:
   ✅ Include the original message text
6. Click OK to save the changes.

📍 Steps for Outlook on the Web (Outlook.com / OWA)

1. Sign in to your Outlook.com or Microsoft 365 account.
2. Click the ⚙️ gear icon > View all Outlook settings.
3. Go to Mail > Compose and reply.
4. Scroll to the Replies and forwards section.
5. Under Forwarding, select:
   ✅ Include the original message text
6. Click Save.

📍 For Outlook on Mac

1. Open Outlook.
2. Go to Outlook > Preferences.
3. Click on Composing.
4. Set the Forwarding style to:
   ✅ Inline

🛠 Troubleshooting: Still Seeing .eml Attachments?

• Ensure your changes were saved and restart Outlook.
• Check for custom mail rules, add-ins, or group policies that may override settings.
• Some message types (e.g., calendar invites, encrypted messages) may still forward as attachments.

Summary Table

📬 Final Tip

✔️ To avoid email delivery failures, always forward emails inline — especially when sending to corporate domains or recipients using strict mail security filters.

For further help, contact your IT team or visit the official Microsoft Outlook Support Page.