How do I recover my Microsoft account?

In a nutshell: Having trouble accessing your Microsoft account? The recovery process is simple and easy. Visit the Microsoft Account Recovery Page, enter your details, verify your identity, use trusted devices or alternate email, enter the verification

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Oct 10, 2024

Introduction

Do you have trouble accessing your Microsoft account? With so many accounts requiring a username and password, it’s easy to forget the information associated with your Microsoft account. Fortunately, the recovery process is simple and straightforward, requiring only a few easy steps.

In this article, you will learn how to regain access to your Microsoft account within a few minutes.

Visit the Microsoft Account Recovery Page

Microsoft recovery page is the primary tool for resetting your password and recovering your account. Go to the page using the link to begin the process.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 1)

Enter Your Details

You will need to enter your email address or phone number associated with the account you are trying to recover. If you no longer have access to that email or phone number, don’t worry —there are other alternatives.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 2)

Verify Your Identity

Microsoft takes account security seriously, so they will ask you to verify your identity. You may be required to:Enter a phone number or email address where they can send a verification code.Provide answers to security questions or provide additional information like email subject lines or frequently contacted individuals.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 3)

Trusted Devices or Alternate Email Address

Another way to recover your account at this point is using a trusted device. The process requires you to enter a recovery code that Microsoft sends to the trusted device.
However, if you don’t have access to a trusted device or the recovery code, you can use an alternate email address. Provide this email so that Microsoft can send you the code.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 4)

Enter the Verification Code

Once you have received the verification code via email or text, enter it to proceed.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 5)

Reset Your Password

After successfully verifying your identity, you will be prompted to reset your password. Choose a strong and unique password that you have not used before. This step will restore your access to the account. Contact Microsoft customer support if you have any issue.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 6)

Still Can’t Recover Your Account?

If you are still having trouble recovering your account, try filling out the Microsoft account recovery form. You will be asked to provide recent passwords, contacts you have frequently emailed and email subject lines.

You will also need a working email account that Microsoft can use to contact you with updates on your request. This process takes up to 24 hours, so be patient.

How do I recover my Microsoft account? (Step 7)

Conclusion

Microsoft’s automated account recovery process ensures security and privacy. Provide accurate information, and if you fail on the first attempt, you can still try again. If you continue to have issues, contact the Microsoft tech support for further assistance.

Further questions?

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.
How do I recover my Microsoft account?

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