Fix Set New Administrator Microsoft in Microsoft 365 on Windows

When Microsoft 365 stops working as expected, start with the shortest official checks before you reinstall anything.

Problem Description: Set New Administrator Microsoft

I am an owner of a company. Our CEO and 2 staff were terminated on 12/31/2025. They left their laptop computers and I can access their emails and the info email on those computers. However, using the passwords list they left, I cannot access on any other computer (passwords fail and were likely reset.) I cannot access my own email for this company. I cannot reset my password or their passwords. The Admin password on their list is not correct. I am locked out and cannot get help by phone from Microsoft. How do I reach an agent to assist me? --- Moderator: Moved from `Microsoft 365 and Office | Access | For business | Windows`

Quick Answer for Password Quick Fix

Dear [@Info Bridge,](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/users/na/?userid=de9da6d6-73f9-4eab-9708-07ddd71264df) Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.

Likely Causes Behind Microsoft 365 Failure Patterns

• The Microsoft account or license context may not match the purchase or device.

• Cached credentials, outdated builds, or damaged local components can trigger password & account recovery.

• A file-specific corruption or add-in conflict can mimic a broader application failure.

Recommended Solution: Installing Microsoft 365 on a New PC

When to use this: Apply these steps when the symptoms match and you can access the relevant Microsoft account or administrator.

1. From what you've described, I understand that You recently had staff changes in your company.

2. The previous administrators a...

Alternative Solutions for Fallback Options for Password

1. Retry the Microsoft-side steps after restarting the app and device.

2. Test the same action in a private browser session or a new blank file to isolate account vs file issues.

3. Capture exact error text and screenshots before contacting Microsoft Support or your administrator.

Working with WPS Office: Editing Files in WPS During Password

WPS Office cannot replace Microsoft account, activation, or cloud fixes for this scenario. It remains one of the best free Microsoft Office-compatible alternatives for opening and editing local files.

1. Download and install WPS Office from the official website.

2. Open local Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files in the matching WPS app.

3. Save a working copy locally while Microsoft-side issues are resolved.

4. Return to Microsoft Office after the primary fix succeeds.

If you need a practical local workspace in the meantime, try WPS Office.

Prevention Tips for Smooth Microsoft 365 Device Transfers

• Keep one primary Microsoft account for subscriptions and Office sign-in.

• Install updates for Office and Windows before retrying failed workflows.

• Back up important files before repair, reset, or reinstall actions.

• Register more than one MFA method and keep recovery contacts current.

FAQs About Password Help Topics

Can WPS Office fix this password & account recovery issue directly? Only when the WPS steps match the formatting or file task. Account, activation, and cloud issues stay on the Microsoft side.

Should I reinstall Microsoft 365 before trying these steps? Not first. Confirm account, license, and the exact error before reinstalling.

What should I send to Microsoft Support? The affected account email, device type, Office version, exact error text, and screenshots with personal data hidden.