Recover Outlook Account — Microsoft Account Recovery
Locked out of your Outlook, Hotmail, or Live email account? This guide covers all official Microsoft account recovery methods: password reset, recovery code, identity verification, and the Microsoft account recovery form.
Outlook Recovery Methods
Reset your password at account.live.com/ResetPassword.aspx. Enter your Microsoft email address. Microsoft will offer to send a verification code to a recovery email address or phone number linked to the account.
Use a backup email or phone number. During the password reset flow, select the recovery contact that appears. If you have access to that email inbox or phone, you'll receive a verification code within seconds.
Use the Microsoft Account Recovery form. If you don't have access to any recovery contact, go to account.live.com/acsr and fill out the Account Recovery form. Microsoft asks detailed questions: previous passwords, payment methods linked, emails sent, contacts, and security questions. Submit as much accurate information as possible.
Approve a sign-in request on a trusted device. If you have a device with a Microsoft Authenticator app configured, Microsoft may send a push notification to that device to approve the new sign-in.
Contact Microsoft Support. support.microsoft.com → "Contact Us" → "Accounts and billing" → "Microsoft account" for direct agent assistance. Agents can sometimes expedite the recovery form review.
If Your Outlook Account Was Hacked
Go to account.microsoft.com/security immediately. Microsoft shows recent sign-in activity — if you see unfamiliar locations, your account may be compromised. Use account.live.com/ResetPassword.aspx to start recovery. If the hacker changed your recovery email and phone, you'll need to submit the Account Recovery form and provide detailed account knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Microsoft Account Recovery form take?
The automated review takes 24–72 hours. If the automated system cannot verify your identity, a human review can take 5–10 business days. Providing accurate, specific account history information significantly improves success rates.
I created my Outlook account years ago and don't remember any details — can I still recover it?
Recovery is more difficult but not impossible. Try to remember: the approximate year the account was created, any subscription or purchases made with it (Office 365, Xbox Live, Skype credits), contacts you emailed, and any previous passwords. Even partial information on several questions can be enough for Microsoft's review to approve recovery.