Microsoft 365 Error Codes

How to Fix Microsoft Developer Program Error 40901 (Linked Phone Number)

Huda Qurayshi Sep 29, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is encountering error 40901 when trying to link a phone number to their Microsoft Developer Program account, indicating the number is already in use.

How to Fix Microsoft Developer Program Error 40901 for a Linked Phone Number

Product: Microsoft 365 Developer Program
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Registering or updating a profile in the Microsoft 365 Developer Center.
Observed behavior: The system displays Error 40901, preventing the user from using their phone number because it is already associated with another developer account or profile.

Before you start

Ensure you have access to any previous Microsoft accounts you might have used to sign up for the Developer Program in the past.

Solution 1Recommended

Delete the Existing Developer Profile

If you know the previous account associated with the phone number, you can log in and delete that developer profile to free up the number.

This is the most direct solution if you own the older account. Keep in mind that Microsoft systems require a cooling-off period before the phone number is fully released from the deleted profile.

Sign in to Developer Center

Navigate to the Microsoft 365 Developer Center at developer.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/profile and log in with your old account credentials.

Locate profile settings

Go to the profile management section of your Microsoft 365 Developer account dashboard.

Delete the profile

Select the option to delete the old developer profile. Once deleted, wait for the system to process the change. It may take up to 60 days for the phone number to become available again.

Cooling-off Period: The phone number does not become available immediately upon deletion. You must wait up to 60 days before it can be linked to a new profile.

Solution 2

Use a Different Phone Number

If you cannot access the old account or cannot wait 60 days, using a new number is the fastest workaround.

Solution 3

Contact Microsoft Developer Support

If you are unable to resolve the issue yourself, you can reach out to official support via the Services Hub.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I getting Microsoft Developer Program Error 40901?

Error 40901 occurs when the phone number you are trying to verify is already linked to another Microsoft Developer Program account or profile.

How long does it take for a phone number to be freed after deleting an account?

Once you delete the old developer profile, it can take up to 60 days for the associated phone number to become available for reuse in a new profile.

Can a Microsoft forum moderator unlink my phone number?

No, forum moderators do not have the system permissions to manually unlink phone numbers. You must contact Microsoft Developer Support through the Services Hub for further assistance.

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