How to Change Your Microsoft Account Email for Verification Codes
Question details
The user needs to update the email address where Microsoft sends verification codes, as codes are still going to an old address after changing the primary sign-in email.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Updating security settings after changing the primary sign-in email for a Microsoft account.
- Observed behavior
- Security codes continue to be sent to the old email address because the account's verification methods have not been updated.
Ensure you have access to your current Microsoft account password and at least one active verification method to log in and make security changes.
Update Verification Email in Advanced Security Options
Manually remove the old email address and add your new one in your Microsoft account security settings.
Changing your primary Microsoft account alias does not automatically update your security information. You must manually add your new email address to your verification methods to ensure security codes are routed correctly.
Navigate to account.microsoft.com/security in your web browser and sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
Click on the 'Advanced security options' dashboard to view and manage your current verification methods.
Locate your previous email address under the 'Email a code' section, expand it, and select the option to remove it.
Click 'Add a new way to sign in or verify', select 'Email a code', and type in your new email address. Follow the prompts to confirm the new address.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Microsoft verification codes still going to my old email?
Changing your primary account alias or sign-in email does not automatically update your security verification methods. You must manually update your security settings to route authentication codes to the new email address.
What if I no longer have access to my old verification email?
If you cannot access your old email to verify your identity, you will need to select 'I don't have any of these' when prompted for a code. This will start a 30-day security info replacement process to protect your account.
Can I use a non-Microsoft email address for verification codes?
Yes, you can use any valid third-party email address (such as Gmail, Yahoo, or a work email) as a verification method to receive your Microsoft account security codes.
