MFA & Verification Issues

How to Change or Remove an Account in Microsoft Authenticator

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to understand how to switch their Microsoft Authenticator sign-in from an old Hotmail address to a new Outlook.com address, which involves removing the old account and configuring the new one.

Product: Microsoft Authenticator
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Changing the primary sign-in or multi-factor authentication (MFA) account from a Hotmail address to an Outlook.com address.
Observed behavior: The user needs to properly manage, remove, or switch their linked email addresses within the Authenticator app without losing access to their accounts.

Before you start

Before removing any account from your Authenticator app, ensure you have an alternative verification method (like a phone number or recovery email) set up in your Microsoft Account security settings to avoid being locked out.

Solution 1Recommended

Remove the Outdated Hotmail Account

Use this method to safely unlink and remove your old Hotmail address from the Authenticator app.

Removing an account from the app simply stops the device from receiving two-step verification prompts for that specific email. It does not delete the email account itself.

Open the Authenticator App

Launch the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device.

Select the Account

Tap on the specific Hotmail account card that you wish to remove from the main screen.

Access Account Settings

Tap the gear icon or the drop-down menu situated in the upper-right corner of the screen.

Remove Account

Select 'Remove account' and confirm your choice in the pop-up dialogue box to stop using this device for verification.

Important: If this was the only verification method on your account, you will be prompted to add a new method the next time you sign in.

Solution 2

Add Your New Outlook.com Account

After removing your old email, add your updated Outlook.com address to restore two-factor authentication security.

Solution 3

Consult the Official Microsoft Q&A Forum

If you encounter errors changing your sign-in address or are locked out of the app, utilizing official Microsoft support channels is highly recommended.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience Hassle-Free Productivity with WPS Office

Dealing with complex account verification loops and strict authentication hurdles can slow down your workflow. Switch to WPS Office, a highly compatible, free, and lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that offers seamless document management with simplified user access.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the office suite in minutes.
3. Start Creating: Instantly open your existing Microsoft Office files and continue your work without worrying about complicated sign-in requirements.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)Flexible and straightforward account management without mandatory complex verification loopsFree to use with a lightweight installation that won't bog down your systemAll-in-one suite featuring Writer, Spreadsheet, Presentation, and robust PDF editing tools

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Will removing my account from the Authenticator app delete the email account?

No. Removing an account from the Microsoft Authenticator app only unlinks the app from that email address so it no longer receives two-factor authentication prompts. Your emails, files, and the account itself remain entirely safe and active.

Can I have both my old Hotmail and new Outlook account in the app at the same time?

Yes, the Microsoft Authenticator app supports multiple accounts simultaneously. You can tap the '+' icon to add your new Outlook.com account while keeping the Hotmail account active if you still need it.

How do I back up my Microsoft Authenticator accounts before making changes?

Open the Authenticator app, tap the menu or gear icon to access Settings, and toggle on 'Cloud backup' (on iOS) or 'Cloud backup' (on Android). This ensures you can recover your accounts if you change devices or accidentally delete the app.

Login & Account Issues