MFA & Verification Issues

Fix Cannot Receive Microsoft Authenticator Codes for Admin Account

Muhammad Talha Sep 29, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to receive multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes via the Microsoft Authenticator app for a personal or Global Administrator account, blocking system access.

How to Fix Microsoft Authenticator Not Sending Codes for Admin Accounts

Product: Microsoft Entra / Authenticator
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to log into Microsoft admin portals or services that require multi-factor authentication verification.
Observed behavior: No authentication codes are delivered to the Authenticator app, resulting in the administrator being completely locked out of their Microsoft environment.

Before you start

Ensure your mobile device has a stable internet connection and that notifications are enabled for your Authenticator app. If codes still do not arrive, verify whether there is another active Global Administrator in your organization who can assist.

Solution 1Recommended

Require MFA Re-registration via Microsoft Entra Admin Center

Use this solution if your organization has another active Global Administrator who can reset your authentication methods.

This is the fastest method to regain access. By having another admin reset your MFA requirements, the system will clear your old authenticator link and allow you to set up a new one during your next login.

Open Microsoft Entra Admin Center

Have the active Global Administrator log into the Microsoft Entra admin center using their own credentials.

Locate the Affected User

Navigate to the 'Users' tab on the left sidebar and select 'All users'. Search for the locked-out administrator's account and click on their name.

Access Authentication Methods

In the user's profile menu, locate the Manage section and click on 'Authentication methods'.

Require Re-registration

Click the 'Require re-register multifactor authentication' option. This removes the previous MFA configuration and will prompt you to set up a new Authenticator method upon your next login attempt.

Require MFA Re-registration via Microsoft Entra Admin Center

Immediate Access: Once the active admin completes this action, you can log in immediately and scan a new QR code to register your Authenticator app.

Solution 2

Contact Microsoft Data Protection Team for Account Recovery

Use this method if you are the only Global Administrator and cannot access the admin center.

Solution 3

Request Assistance from Your IT Reseller

If you purchased your Microsoft 365 subscription through a third-party reseller, they may have delegated admin privileges to help you.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

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1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the brief on-screen instructions to set up the suite.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I not receiving codes on my Microsoft Authenticator app?

This can happen due to a poor network connection, aggressive battery optimization settings blocking background app refreshes, disabled notifications, or if the account token in the app has become out of sync.

Can Microsoft community forum moderators help me reset my admin MFA?

No, community forum moderators do not have the required backend access or security clearance to reset passwords, change MFA methods, or restore access for any tenant's administrator account.

What if I lost the phone that had my Authenticator app installed?

If you are a standard user, your IT administrator can reset your MFA settings in the Entra admin center. If you are an administrator, another admin must perform this reset for you. If you are the sole admin, you must contact Microsoft Support.

How long does it take for Microsoft Data Protection to reset a sole admin account?

Account recovery for a sole Global Administrator can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, as Microsoft's Data Protection team must undergo strict verification processes to ensure the security of your organization.

Login & Account Issues