Why does this problem occur and how to address it?
Now check out thisMiniTool Softwareguide to get comprehensive guidance.
The default location should beC:\Users\username\Documents.
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However, some users reported that they encountered an issue:Documents folder suddenly shows empty.
Here is an example:
Numerous factors can cause the Documents folder to appear empty suddenly.
Users folder is missing?

Here are two ways you’re free to use to display hidden files on Windows.
Use Command Prompt:
Fix 2.
In this case, you might go toC:\Users\username\OneDrive\Documentsand check whether your files are there.
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Do you know how to prevent Windows from saving files to OneDrive?
This post will give you detailed solutions and you could read it.
Fix 3. under this circumstance, you better use professional and green data recovery software to carry outsecure data recovery.

It is specially designed for Windows operating systems and is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7.
This makes great sense in reducing the scan duration.
Now, download, install, and launch MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free to start the file recovery.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Step 1. pick the Documents folder to scan.
When the main interface of this file restore tool appears, clickSelect Folderand then choose theDocumentsfolder to scan.
After clicking theSelect Folderbutton, this software will start scanning the folder for lost or deleted files immediately.

Find the required files with multiple useful features.
After scanning, you could start looking for the files you want to recover.
You are required to expand each folder to locate the desired files, which can be a tedious process.

Filter and Search:Once you click theFilterbutton, filtering rules will pop up.
Note that the files supported to preview should be no larger than 2 GB in size.
Tick the required items and restore them.
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Finally, it is time to save the wanted items.
Tick the checkboxes next to the required files and click theSavebutton.
Do not store the recovered files to the original Documents folder to prevent the old data from being overwritten.
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Thumbs up for MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free.
How to recover deleted files without backup on Windows and Mac?
Here is a summary of the effective and functional data security measures we have compiled.

Tip 1.
Back up Files Regularly
Data backup is the primary line of defense to prevent data loss.
Here we strongly recommend you back up the Documents folder with robust Windows backup software, MiniTool ShadowMaker.
ThisPC backup softwarecan help create automatic backups of folders, files, disks, partitions, and Windows systems.
Tip 2.
Enable Delete Confirmation Dialog
Human deletion accounts for a large part of the empty Documents folder.
If it is an accidental deletion, you’re free to cancel it.
How to enable Delete Confirmation Dialog?
First, right-click theRecycle Binshortcut on your desktop and chooseProperties.
In the new window, tick theDisplay delete confirmation dialogoption and clickApply>OK.
See more ways in this post:How to Enable Windows Confirm Delete.
Tip 3.
Tip 4.
SeeHow to look to see if a Hard Drive Is Failing With SMART.
If yes, you’ve got the option to unhide them.
Also, the files may be stored in the OneDrive folder or another user profile.