Password & Account Recovery

How to Change Microsoft Account Password Without Old Phone Number

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 8, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to recover and reset a forgotten Microsoft account password without having access to the previously registered phone number.

How to Change Microsoft Account Password Without Old Phone Number

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to regain access to a personal Microsoft account when the only security phone number is inactive or lost.
Observed behavior: The user cannot pass the standard SMS authentication step and requires an alternative recovery method to change the password.

Before you start

Gather as much detailed information about your Microsoft account as possible, including previously used passwords, recent email subjects, and an active alternate email address to receive updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Microsoft Account Recovery Form

This is the official and most effective method to recover your account when you no longer have access to your primary security information.

The Account Recovery Form bypasses the need for SMS or app-based two-factor authentication by verifying your identity through historical account usage.

You will need a working alternate email address so the Microsoft support team can contact you with the results.

Navigate to the recovery page

Open a web browser and go to account.live.com/acsr to access the official Microsoft Account Recovery Form.

Enter account details

Type in the email address, phone number, or Skype name of the Microsoft account you are trying to recover.

Provide a contact email

Enter a different, currently accessible email address where Microsoft can send the recovery verification results, then complete the CAPTCHA.

Fill out the questionnaire

Provide as much accurate information as possible, including old passwords, recent email subjects, folder names, and contact emails.

Submit and wait

Submit the form. Microsoft typically reviews the request and sends the results to your alternate email address within 24 hours.

Increase Your Chances of Success: Submit the recovery form from a familiar computer, device, and network location that you previously used to sign in to this Microsoft account.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office While Recovering Your Account

If you are temporarily locked out of your Microsoft account and need to view or edit documents urgently, WPS Office provides a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative that works immediately.

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 setup wizard to install the suite on your device.
3. Open your existing files: Double-click any existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint document on your computer to open and edit it directly in WPS Office.

Create and edit documents without relying on a Microsoft account login.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX.Lightweight design that installs quickly on Windows, Mac, and Linux.Familiar ribbon interface ensures a seamless transition with no learning curve.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What information should I provide on the Microsoft recovery form?

You should include any old passwords you remember, the exact subjects of emails you've recently sent or received, names of contacts in your address book, and billing details if you have purchased Microsoft services.

How long does the Microsoft account recovery process take?

After submitting the Account Recovery Form, Microsoft typically processes the information and sends a response to your alternate email address within 24 hours.

What should I do if my account recovery request is denied?

If verification fails, do not give up. You can try submitting the form again up to two times per day. Try to remember more specific details and ensure you submit the form from a familiar device and IP address.

Login & Account Issues