Microsoft Account - Reset Password

Reset a forgotten Microsoft account password

Applies To: Microsoft account, Microsoft account dashboard

Alert Important Note: If you know your password, but just want to change it, go to account.microsoft.com, navigate to the Security tab, and select Change my password. If you know your username and password but they have stopped working, read My username and password have stopped working.

1. Select "Forgot password?"

If the "Enter password" window is still open, select Forgot password?. If not, select Reset password below, enter the username for the account you're trying to reset, and select Next.

2. Verify your identity

For your protection, Microsoft must verify your identity before you can proceed with resetting your password.

Choose how you want to receive a verification code.

Important: If you don't see an option for where to send a code, or you no longer have access to any of the verification options shown, use this sign-in helper tool. If you don't recognize any of the verification email or phone options, use this sign-in helper tool.

3. Get a verification code

For your protection, we will ask you to confirm the verification details you select. If you cannot get a code, read Troubleshooting verification code issues.

Retype the first part of the email address or the last four digits of the phone number hinted at in the previous window.

Microsoft will send a verification code to the email or phone number you selected. Go to the recovery phone or email for where you expect to receive the code.

4. Enter code and reset password

Confirm the code to create a new password. Learn how to create a strong password.

Paste or type the code you received and select Next.

Type your new password and select Next.

Need more help?

Can't sign in?

If you can't sign into your Microsoft account, most issues can be identified by our sign-in helper tool.

Contact Support

For technical support, go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter your problem and select Get Help. If you still need help, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option.

Email Me Contact Support

Important: To protect your account and its contents, our support agents are not allowed to send password reset links, or access and change account details.