MFA & Verification Issues

Fix Microsoft Verification Code Not Arriving or Too Many Requests

Emma Brown Oct 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to receive a Microsoft verification code via phone or email and is encountering a 'too many requests' error after multiple attempts.

How to Fix Microsoft Verification Code Not Arriving

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to verify a Microsoft account or recover a password using a mobile number.
Observed behavior: No verification code is received after 24 hours, and subsequent attempts using a mobile number trigger a limit error stating that too many requests have been made.

Before you start

Ensure that your device has a stable cellular signal or internet connection to receive SMS and emails. If you have already encountered a 'too many requests' error, you must wait a full 24 hours for the system to reset before attempting again.

Solution 1Recommended

Troubleshoot and Request a New Verification Code

Perform basic checks on your contact details and network, then request a new code once the 24-hour block is lifted.

Microsoft temporarily blocks verification requests if too many attempts are made in a short period to protect your account. Once the cooldown period expires, you can carefully try again.

Wait for the block to expire

Do not make any verification attempts for a full 24 hours to ensure the 'too many requests' lock is completely lifted from your account.

Verify your contact details

When initiating the request again, double-check that you are entering the correct phone number or email address associated with your Microsoft account, including the correct country code for mobile numbers.

Check spam and blocked folders

If you requested the code via email, open your Spam or Junk folder to see if the Microsoft email was filtered. If using a phone, check your blocked messages or spam SMS inbox.

Request a new code

Click the 'Send code' button again. If possible, try this from a recognized device or network that you have previously used to log into your Microsoft account.

Troubleshoot and Request a New Verification Code

Carrier restrictions: Some mobile carriers block shortcode SMS messages by default. If you consistently fail to receive codes, contact your carrier to ensure you can receive automated verification texts.

Solution 2

Use the Microsoft Account Recovery Form

If the code still does not arrive and you are trying to regain access to your account, use the official account recovery form as an alternative method.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I getting a 'too many requests' error on my Microsoft account?

This error occurs when you request a verification code multiple times in a short period. Microsoft temporarily blocks further requests to protect your account from unauthorized access. You typically need to wait 24 hours before trying again.

Can I use an alternate email to receive my Microsoft verification code?

Yes, if you previously set up an alternate email address in your Microsoft account security settings, you can select the option to have the verification code sent to that email instead of your phone number.

How long does it usually take for a Microsoft verification code to arrive?

Typically, codes arrive within a few seconds to a few minutes. However, network congestion or carrier issues can cause delays. If it takes longer than 15 minutes, check your spam folder or ensure your mobile carrier isn't blocking shortcode messages.

Login & Account Issues