# Fix a CubbyPad login item that needs approval

CubbyPad can direct you to macOS Login Items when the system needs approval before starting it automatically.

Last updated 26 October 2026

## Follow these steps

1. Open Settings › General in CubbyPad.

1. Read the Open at login caption for an approval message.

1. Choose Open Login Items… if shown.

1. Review the CubbyPad entry in System Settings and allow its expected login behavior.

## What to expect

The system can start the installed app when you sign in. This approval does not grant microphone or speech access, activate the license, or change the launcher’s keyboard shortcut.

Use a manual launch from Applications while investigating. If that opens the grid normally, the installation and layout can be healthy even though automatic startup is not yet approved.

## If the result is different

If the setting still appears blocked, check that CubbyPad remains in Applications and that the macOS user account is the one whose startup preferences you changed. On a managed Mac, a system policy may control login items; share the specific message with your administrator or support.

For the broader walkthrough, read [when cubbypad does not open as expected](https://cubbypad.com/guides/troubleshooting/).

## Related answers.

[### Show or hide CubbyPad’s Dock icon

The Dock toggle in Settings › General controls CubbyPad’s own Dock icon, separate from the apps inside its grid.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/show-dock-icon/)[### Keep CubbyPad in the menu bar

Turn on the Menu bar option in Settings › General for an entry point to the grid, Settings and Quit.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/show-menu-bar-icon/)[### Open CubbyPad Settings again

Use Command–Comma or the CubbyPad menu bar entry to return to Settings after the initial setup.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/reopen-settings/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/help/login-item-needs-approval/