MFA & Verification Issues

Fix Google and Microsoft Authenticator Codes Not Working for Outlook

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to use Google or Microsoft Authenticator codes to access their Outlook account and has lost their recovery code, although they remain signed in to the account.

Fix Google and Microsoft Authenticator Codes Not Working for Outlook

Product: Microsoft Outlook
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to verify identity for an Outlook or Microsoft account using MFA authenticator applications.
Observed behavior: Authenticator codes from both Google and Microsoft apps are failing to authenticate the login, and the user lacks the recovery code to bypass the MFA prompt.

Before you start

Since you are still signed in to your account, do not log out or clear your browser cache until you have successfully added a new verification method. Ensure you have a secondary device or active phone number ready to use.

Solution 1Recommended

Add a New Verification Method Before Removing the App

If you are still logged into your account, add an alternative verification method to ensure you don't get locked out before removing the broken Authenticator registration.

Because you are still signed into your account, you have a brief window to update your security settings. It is critical that you add a new verification method (like SMS or an alternate email) before you attempt to delete or reset the current Authenticator app settings.

Access Security Settings

Navigate to your Microsoft Account dashboard and select the 'Security' tab from the top menu, then click on 'Advanced security options'.

Add a New Sign-in Way

Scroll down and click on 'Add a new way to sign in or verify'. Choose an alternative method, such as 'Text a code' (SMS) or 'Email a code'.

Verify the New Method

Follow the on-screen prompts to verify the new phone number or email address.

Remove the Old Authenticator

Once the new method is successfully added and verified, find the malfunctioning Authenticator app in your security list and click 'Remove'.

Add a New Verification Method Before Removing the App

Account Secured: Adding a new method guarantees you will retain access to your account even if the Authenticator app completely stops working or is uninstalled.

Solution 2

Contact Your School or Organization IT Support

If your Outlook account is provided by an educational institution or employer, your MFA settings are strictly managed by their IT department.

Solution 3

Seek Assistance on the Microsoft Q&A Forum

For complex Microsoft Authenticator issues on personal accounts, utilize the dedicated Microsoft support community.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Productivity Experience

Dealing with Microsoft account lockouts, lost recovery codes, and complicated MFA settings can disrupt your workflow. Switch to WPS Office, a lightweight, highly compatible alternative that lets you view, edit, and create Office files locally without mandatory cloud logins.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Work locally on your files without forced cloud synchronization or complex MFA lockouts.Lightweight installation that runs smoothly on Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Microsoft Authenticator codes being rejected as invalid?

This often happens due to time synchronization issues. In the Microsoft Authenticator app, go to Settings and tap 'Time correction for codes' or 'Sync time' to ensure your app's internal clock matches the server's time.

Can I generate a new recovery code if I lost mine?

Yes, but only if you currently have access to your account's security settings. You can generate a new recovery code in the 'Advanced security options' menu, which will automatically invalidate your previously generated code.

What happens if I delete the Authenticator app without a backup?

If you delete the app without a cloud backup or an alternative verification method (like SMS or a secondary email) linked to your account, you may get locked out. You will then need to go through a lengthy account recovery process or contact your organization's IT administrator to regain access.

Login & Account Issues