How to Fix OneNote Sign-In Error 0x803D0013 on a Tablet
Question details
The user is unable to sign in to OneNote on a tablet and cannot sync notebooks due to error code 0x803D0013, even after resetting and reinstalling the app.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to log into the OneNote application and sync notebooks on a tablet device.
- Observed behavior
- The application displays error 0x803D0013 during the sign-in process and fails to sync any notebooks.
Ensure your tablet is connected to a stable internet network and verify that you have the correct email and password for your Microsoft account before attempting to sign in.
Verify Microsoft Account and Service Access
Test your account on other Microsoft services to determine if the issue is account-specific, app-specific, or related to the tablet.
Authentication errors often occur when there is an issue with the specific account type (personal, work, or school) or if there is a temporary suspension on the account.
Open a web browser on your tablet, navigate to the official Microsoft account login page, and enter your credentials to confirm your account is active.
Open the Microsoft OneDrive app on the same tablet and attempt to log in using the exact same account details.
If you can sign into OneDrive and the website, the problem is isolated to the OneNote app. If all services fail, there may be an issue with your Microsoft account credentials or status.
Refresh OneNote App Authentication
Clear out any stuck authentication tokens by completely signing out and force-closing the application.
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If persistent Microsoft Office errors are slowing down your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative that makes managing your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations effortless on any device.
- 1. Download the App: Visit the official WPS Office website or your tablet's designated app store to download the free application.
- 2. Install and Launch: Follow the standard on-screen prompts to install the software, then tap the WPS icon to launch it.
- 3. Start Creating: Open a new document or import your existing files to continue working without being hindered by complex sign-in errors.

Frequently Asked Questions
What does error code 0x803D0013 mean in OneNote?
Error 0x803D0013 typically points to a server connectivity or authentication issue, preventing the OneNote application from establishing a secure connection to your Microsoft account to verify your credentials.
Why does OneNote keep asking me to sign in on my tablet?
This can happen if your digital authentication token expires, if you recently changed your password, or if there is a syncing conflict between the local app and the cloud server. Signing out and signing back in usually refreshes this token.
Does reinstalling the OneNote app delete my notebooks?
No, your notebooks are safely stored in your cloud-based OneDrive account. Reinstalling or resetting the OneNote app will not delete the files, but you will need to successfully sign in again to sync and access them on the tablet.
How do I know if my OneNote sync issue is related to a work or school account restriction?
Work and school accounts are often managed by IT administrators who can enforce device-specific login policies. If a personal account signs in perfectly on the tablet but a work account displays the error, you may need to contact your organization's IT support.




