Getting locked out of your Microsoft account can be frustrating, especially when you need access to Outlook email, Xbox, or Windows services. This guide covers all recovery methods, from simple password resets to the full account recovery form for complex situations.
Method 1: Standard Password Reset
Use this method if you have access to your backup email or phone number.
- Go to the password reset page:
- Enter your Microsoft account email
- Select verification method:
- Email to your backup address
- Text to your phone number
- Call to your phone number
- Enter the security code you receive
- Create a new password
Tip: Your new password must be at least 8 characters and different from your previous password.
Method 2: Account Recovery Form
Use this method if you can't access your backup email or phone number. The recovery form lets you prove ownership through other information.
- Go to the recovery form:
- Visit account.live.com/acsr
- Enter your Microsoft account email
- Enter a contact email where Microsoft can reach you (must be different from the account you're recovering)
- Complete the CAPTCHA
- Fill out the recovery form with as much detail as possible
Information That Helps Your Recovery Request
Provide as many of these as you can remember:
| Information Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Previous passwords | Any passwords you've used on this account |
| Email details | Subject lines of recent emails you sent or received |
| Folder names | Custom folders you created in Outlook |
| Contacts | Email addresses in your address book |
| Microsoft products | Xbox Gamertag, Skype name, products purchased |
| Billing info | Last 4 digits of credit card used, purchase amounts |
| Account creation | When and where you created the account |
Processing time: Microsoft typically reviews requests within 24 hours. You'll receive a response at your contact email.
Method 3: Using Microsoft Authenticator
If you have Microsoft Authenticator set up:
- Open Microsoft Authenticator on your phone
- Tap your Microsoft account
- Tap "I forgot my password" if available
- Follow the prompts to reset via the app
This method works because the app has already verified your identity.
Recovering a Hacked Account
If you suspect your account was compromised:
- Reset your password immediately using Method 1 or 2
- Review Recent Activity:
- Go to account.live.com/Activity
- Look for logins you don't recognize
- Update security info:
- Add a new phone number or backup email
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Check account settings:
- Review email forwarding rules
- Check connected apps and remove suspicious ones
- Verify recovery email hasn't been changed
Tips for Successful Recovery
For the Recovery Form
- Be specific: Exact passwords are better than approximate ones
- Include details: More information increases approval chances
- Use a familiar device: Submit from a device you've used with the account
- Wait before resubmitting: If denied, wait 24 hours and provide more details
Common Reasons for Denial
- Information too vague or incorrect
- Using a new device Microsoft doesn't recognize
- Not enough account history to verify ownership
- Multiple failed attempts in a short period
Recovering Specific Microsoft Services
Xbox Account
Your Xbox account is your Microsoft account. Use the same recovery methods above. Your Gamertag can help verify ownership on the recovery form.
Outlook/Hotmail
Email details (sent messages, folder names, contacts) are valuable for the recovery form.
Windows PC
If you're locked out of Windows because of your Microsoft account:
- Use another device to reset your password
- Ensure your PC has internet connection
- Try your new password on the Windows lock screen
Preventing Future Lockouts
- Enable two-factor authentication: Adds security and recovery options
- Keep security info updated: Current phone number and backup email
- Set up Microsoft Authenticator: Provides an additional recovery method
- Save recovery codes: Store them securely when offered
- Use a password manager: Never forget your password again