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Fix Office 2013 Product Key Already Redeemed Error
Question details
The user is unable to activate Office 2013 because the system indicates the product key has already been redeemed by an unknown account.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2013
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reinstalling or activating Microsoft Office 2013 on a computer.
- Observed behavior
- The activation process fails and displays an error stating the product key was already redeemed by an unfamiliar Outlook email address.
Verify if another family member, colleague, or IT administrator might have used a different Microsoft account to set up your Office 2013 suite initially.
Install Using the Original Microsoft Account
Since an Office 2013 product key can only be redeemed once, you must reinstall the software directly from the Microsoft account it is bound to, rather than entering the key again.
Product keys are designed for one-time use to link the software license to your Microsoft account. If you receive an error about an unfamiliar Outlook address, the key was likely redeemed during the first installation.
Navigate to the Microsoft account services page in your web browser.
Log in using the email address you suspect was used during the initial setup of the computer or software.
Go to the 'Services & subscriptions' section and look for your Office 2013 license.
Click the 'Install' button next to your Office 2013 listing to download the installer directly without needing the product key.
Contact Microsoft Support with Proof of Purchase
If you cannot identify or access the account that originally redeemed the key, you may need official assistance to verify your license.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Experience
Struggling with expired licenses, forgotten accounts, or activation errors for Office 2013? Switch to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, lightweight, and completely free alternative to Microsoft Office.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free version of WPS Office.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the setup file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to install the suite.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Office documents directly without needing any product key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse my Office 2013 product key on a new computer?
No, an Office product key can only be redeemed once. To reinstall on a new device, you must sign in to the Microsoft Account Services page, locate your license under 'Services & subscriptions', and click 'Install'. You may also need to uninstall it from the old computer first if your license permits transferring.
What should I do if Office 2013 was preinstalled on my PC?
If your Office 2013 came preinstalled, the license is permanently linked to the first Microsoft account used during the initial setup of that PC. You must recover and log into that specific account to manage or repair your installation.
Is it safe to share my product key on support forums to get help?
No, never share your full 25-character product key publicly. Anyone who sees it could steal or misuse the key. Only provide it directly to verified official Microsoft Support agents if explicitly requested.
Can I still get official technical support for Office 2013 activation?
Microsoft officially ended support for Office 2013 on April 11, 2023. While you can still try contacting Microsoft Support with your proof of purchase, be aware that customer service and account recovery options may be limited.
