Product Key Issues

How to Activate Office 2013 Without the Original Microsoft Account

Olivia Miller Oct 1, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to activate Microsoft Office 2013 but does not know or have access to the original Microsoft account used to redeem the product key.

How to Activate Office 2013 Without the Original Microsoft Account

Product: Microsoft Office 2013
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Reinstalling or attempting to activate Office 2013 after the original installer or company admin is no longer available.
Observed behavior: The activation process fails or blocks the user because the legitimate product key is permanently tied to the original, unknown Microsoft account.

Before you start

Locate your 25-character Office 2013 product key. Ensure you have a stable internet connection before attempting to verify your key on the Microsoft portal to retrieve account hints.

Solution 1Recommended

Identify the Original Microsoft Account via the Redemption Page

Use the official Microsoft Office product key redemption page to reveal partial details of the account tied to your key.

Microsoft permanently links Office 2013 product keys to the Microsoft account used during the initial setup. By entering your key into the redemption portal, the system may show a masked version of the original email address, which can help jog your memory.

Visit the Office Setup Page

Open your web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Office setup or product key redemption website.

Sign In

Sign in with any active Microsoft account. If you do not have another one, you can temporarily create a new Microsoft account to access the redemption tool.

Enter the Product Key

Type in your 25-character Office 2013 product key when prompted by the page.

Check the Error Message

Look for an error message stating the key has already been used. Microsoft will usually display a partially masked email address (e.g., j***@outlook.com) indicating the account it is tied to.

Recover the Original Account

Use the masked email hint to identify the account. If you forgot the password, proceed to the Microsoft Account Recovery page to regain access.

Identify the Original Microsoft Account via the Redemption Page

Key Transferability: A redeemed Office 2013 product key generally cannot be transferred to a different Microsoft account under any circumstances.

Solution 2

Upgrade to a Newer Office Suite

Since Office 2013 has reached its end of support, upgrading is the most secure alternative if the original account cannot be recovered.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Free and Seamless Experience

If you cannot recover your Office 2013 account and prefer not to pay for a new, expensive Microsoft 365 subscription, WPS Office provides a powerful, free alternative. It features a highly familiar interface, ensuring you can return to work immediately without a steep learning curve.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the setup file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to install the software on your device.
3. Open Your Old Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your old Office 2013 files to continue editing them seamlessly.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Completely free to use with comprehensive alternatives for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Lightweight installation that runs fast and smoothly, even on older computers.No complicated activation hurdles or permanent account lockouts for basic usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my Office 2013 product key to a new Microsoft account?

No, once an Office 2013 product key is redeemed, it is permanently linked to that specific Microsoft account. Microsoft does not allow transferring the license to a different account.

What happens if I can't guess the masked Microsoft account email?

If the masked email hint isn't enough to help you remember the original account, you will need to use Microsoft's account recovery form. If recovery fails, you will not be able to activate that specific Office 2013 license.

Is it safe to continue using Office 2013 if I manage to activate it?

Office 2013 has reached its end of support, meaning it no longer receives security patches from Microsoft. While it will still function, it is highly recommended to upgrade to a supported office suite to ensure your computer and data remain secure.

Will a new Office suite open my old Office 2013 documents?

Yes, modern office suites like Microsoft 365 and WPS Office are fully backward compatible. They will easily open, edit, and save files originally created in Office 2013 without losing formatting.

Installation & Activation