Action Cannot be Completed: Mail Error / Trash preferences

  • Operating System(s): MacOS
  • Operating System Version(s): 8.0, 8.1, 8.1.1, 8.5, 8.5.1, 8.6, 9.0
  • Application: Microsoft Outlook Express
  • Application Version(s): 4.x

If you are unable to access your email and are getting an action cannot be completed error, you may have corrupted preferences or mail folder. You will need to trash your current Outlook Express and Internet Mail preferences and reconfigure.

Error Message

"Action Cannot be Completed: Mail Error."
Cause

Corrupted preferences or mail folder can cause this error to occur.
Solution

Trash the current Outlook Express and Internet Mail preferences.
Requirements
  • WARNING: Existing email will be be deleted
How to trash the Outlook Express and Internet Mail preferences
  1. Double-click the Macintosh HD icon.

  2. Double-click the Internet folder.

  3. Double-click the Internet Applications folder.

  4. Double-click the Outlook Express folder.

  5. Double-click the OE User(s) folder.

  6. Double-click the Main User folder.

  7. Click and hold the Outlook Express Prefs item in the folder, then drag it and release it on the trash can.

  8. Click and hold the Internet Mail folder in the folder, then drag it and release it on the trash can.

  9. Close all windows.

    You have now successfully trashed your Outlook Express and Internet Mail preferences. Try accessing your email again. Refer to How to Configure Outlook Express.