Reset Your Microsoft Account Password

Forgetting your Microsoft account password is more common than you might think, and Microsoft provides a straightforward self-service recovery process. Whether your account is tied to Outlook, OneDrive, Xbox, or a Windows PC, the same official reset flow applies.

Before You Start

You'll need access to at least one of the following: the recovery email address linked to your account, the phone number on your account, or the Microsoft Authenticator app if you previously set it up. If none of those are available, Microsoft does offer an account recovery form as a last resort.

Steps to Reset Your Password

1. Open a browser and go to account.microsoft.com. Click Sign in, enter your email address, then click Next.
2. On the password screen, click Forgot my password.
3. Choose why you need to reset the password — select I forgot my password — then click Next.
4. Microsoft will show you the verification options tied to your account (a masked email, a masked phone number, or the Authenticator app). Choose one and follow the prompts to receive a code.
5. Enter the code, then create a new strong password when prompted. Confirm it and click Next.

Your password is now reset. You can sign back in to any Microsoft service with the new password.

If You Don't Recognise Any Recovery Options

If the masked email or phone number shown isn't one you have access to, choose I don't have any of these. Microsoft will ask you to fill in an account recovery form. You'll be asked for details like the account creation date, previous passwords, and devices you've used. Approval takes one to two business days.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Once back in, update your recovery email and phone number so they're current.
• Turn on two-step verification under account.microsoft.com > Security to protect against future lockouts.
• Use a password manager so you don't have to rely on memory.

If you run into trouble at any step, ask us and we'll help you work through it.