MFA & Verification Issues

Fix Microsoft Authenticator Not Sending Approval Notifications

Ayan Masood Oct 7, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to sign into their account because the Microsoft Authenticator app is not sending the expected approval notification.

Fix Microsoft Authenticator Not Sending Approval Notifications

Product: Microsoft Authenticator
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Signing into a personal, work, school, or community organization Microsoft account.
Observed behavior: The app displays a number-matching code but does not send the corresponding approval notification to the user's device, blocking access.

Before you start

Ensure your mobile device is connected to a stable internet connection and that notifications are explicitly enabled for the Microsoft Authenticator app in your device settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Use an Alternative Sign-In Method

Bypass the Authenticator app by using a backup verification method like SMS, email, or a backup code.

If the push notification fails to arrive, the fastest workaround is to use a secondary authentication method that you have previously registered to your account.

Select alternative sign-in options

On the Microsoft sign-in page, look for and click on the 'Other ways to sign in' or 'I do not have access to my Microsoft Authenticator app' link.

Choose a backup method

Select an alternative registered verification method from the list provided, such as receiving a code via text message or a secondary email.

Complete the sign-in

Enter the code you receive through the alternative method and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the sign-in process.

Missing Backup Methods: If you do not see the option for other sign-in methods, it means no alternative verification options were configured for this account.

Solution 2

Contact Your Organization's Administrator

For work or school accounts where alternative methods fail, an IT administrator must reset your MFA registration.

Solution 3

Update Security Methods for Personal Accounts

Update or reset your authentication methods via the Microsoft Security dashboard if you can still access your account.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Experience

Having trouble accessing your Microsoft 365 account due to Authenticator issues? You can still maintain your productivity without interruption. WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and powerful alternative that allows you to work offline without relying on cloud authentication.

1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the suite on your device.
3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents without needing a Microsoft account sign-in.

Completely free to use with a lightweight installation footprintFully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptxFamiliar and intuitive user interface for seamless migrationRobust offline mode available, avoiding reliance on cloud accounts and MFA

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't Microsoft Authenticator sending push notifications?

This can happen due to network connectivity issues, battery optimization settings restricting background data, or the app missing push notification permissions in your phone's settings. Sometimes, the app simply loses sync with your Microsoft account.

What if I don't see the 'Other ways to sign in' option?

If alternative methods are not displayed on the sign-in screen, it means no backup verification methods (like a phone number or secondary email) were set up for your account. You will need to recover your account via the Microsoft Account Recovery form or contact your IT administrator.

Can I receive the verification code via SMS instead?

Yes, provided you previously linked a phone number to your account. You can select the option to receive a text message after clicking 'Other ways to sign in' or 'I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now' on the login screen.

How do I fix a number-matching code that does not show up in the app?

Ensure you open the Microsoft Authenticator app manually if the notification doesn't pop up. If the prompt still doesn't appear, pull down on the accounts list inside the app to force a manual sync, or check your device's internet connection.

Login & Account Issues