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How to Fix Microsoft 365 Outlook Repeatedly Prompting for Password
Question details
Users are continuously prompted to enter their password in Microsoft 365 Outlook and encounter an Account Error that returns hours after being temporarily fixed.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Using Microsoft 365 Office applications and Outlook for daily business or personal tasks.
- Observed behavior
- Outlook repeatedly asks for sign-in credentials. Clicking 'Fix me' and signing in resolves the account error temporarily, but the prompt reappears a few hours later.
Ensure you have your Microsoft 365 account credentials ready and verify whether you are using a personal Microsoft account or a Work/School account before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps.
Run the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA)
Use Microsoft's official diagnostic tool to automatically identify and fix Outlook authentication and account token issues.
The Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant works by running tests to figure out what's wrong and offers the best solution for the identified problem. It is highly effective for persistent password prompts caused by corrupted authentication tokens.
Download and install the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant from the official Microsoft download page.
Open the tool, accept the terms, and select 'Outlook' from the list of applications.
Select the specific problem stating 'Outlook keeps asking for my password'.
Follow the on-screen prompts to allow the assistant to diagnose your account settings, clear old tokens, and apply the recommended fixes.
Disconnect and Reconnect Your Work or School Account
Clear outdated or corrupted Windows account connections that conflict with your Outlook sign-in tokens.
Perform an Online Repair of Microsoft Office
Fix corrupted Office program files that might be triggering continuous account error messages.
Tired of Account Errors? Switch to WPS Office
If continuous password prompts and account errors in Microsoft 365 disrupt your workflow, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint without the hassle of complex subscription authentications.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installation file.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly without worrying about account token errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Outlook keep asking for my password even after I check 'Remember me'?
This usually happens due to corrupted cached credentials in the Windows Credential Manager, expired authentication tokens, or specific Conditional Access policies and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) settings configured by your IT administrator.
What does the 'Account Error' message in Microsoft 365 mean?
An 'Account Error' indicates that Office applications cannot verify your subscription license or sign-in token. While clicking 'Fix Me' attempts to refresh the token, underlying network issues or conflicting cached credentials may cause the error to return.
How do I clear my Outlook cached credentials in Windows?
Open the Windows Start menu, search for 'Credential Manager', and select 'Windows Credentials'. Look for any entries starting with 'MicrosoftOffice', click on them, and select 'Remove'. Restart Outlook afterward to enter your password fresh.
Can an outdated Office version cause continuous password prompts?
Yes, older versions of Office may struggle with modern authentication protocols used by Microsoft 365. Updating your Office suite via File > Office Account > Update Options can often resolve these authentication loops.
