How to Fix the Error Adding a Phone Number as a Microsoft Account Alias
Question details
The user is unable to add a specific phone number as an alias to their Microsoft account because the system indicates it is already in use or unavailable.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to add a personal phone number as an account alias for easier login or security management.
- Observed behavior
- The system rejects the phone number, displaying an error message stating that the number is already taken or unavailable to be added as an alias.
Before proceeding, gather any alternative email addresses or phone numbers you own, and try to recall if you have created other Microsoft accounts in the past that might be using this phone number.
Check Your Other Microsoft Accounts for the Phone Number
Verify if the phone number is already linked to another Microsoft account you own as an alias or security contact.
A phone number can only be associated with one Microsoft account alias at a time. If it is tied to an older or secondary account, the system will block you from adding it to a new one.
Go to the Microsoft account login page and sign in using any other email addresses or Skype IDs you might have used in the past.
Click on the 'Your info' tab at the top of the Microsoft account dashboard.
Select 'Edit account info' to view the list of email addresses and phone numbers associated with that specific account.
Navigate to the 'Security' tab, then select 'Advanced security options' to see if the phone number is listed as a two-step verification method.
Use an Email Address or Alternative Phone Number
Bypass the phone number restriction by adding a different alias type to secure and manage your account.
Submit a Report via the Feedback Hub
If you believe the restriction on your phone number is a system error, you can submit feedback directly to Microsoft.
Work Seamlessly Without Microsoft Account Restrictions
Dealing with Microsoft account alias errors can disrupt your workflow and block your access to essential tools. If you want a powerful productivity suite without the hassle of strict account policies, try WPS Office. It is a completely free, lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office that allows you to create, edit, and collaborate seamlessly.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the quick on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open existing Office files: Launch WPS Office to instantly open your Microsoft Office files and continue your work without interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Microsoft say my phone number is already taken when adding an alias?
This happens because the phone number is currently linked to another Microsoft account. It may be set as an active alias, a primary login method, or used as a security verification number on that secondary account.
Can I merge two Microsoft accounts to resolve the phone number conflict?
No, Microsoft does not allow users to merge separate accounts for security reasons. You must manage aliases, subscriptions, and security information individually for each Microsoft account.
If I remove my phone number from my old account, can I use it right away?
Not necessarily. Microsoft's security protocols sometimes prevent a recently removed phone number from being added to a new account immediately. In certain cases, the system restriction may permanently prevent the number from being reused as an alias.
Is there a limit to how many aliases I can have on my Microsoft account?
Yes, you can have up to 10 active aliases on your Microsoft account at any given time, and you are allowed to add a maximum of 10 new aliases per year.
