How to Recover an Inactive or Deleted Personal Microsoft Account
Question details
The user needs to regain access to an inactive or closed personal Microsoft account but lacks access to the registered alternate email, phone number, or security answers.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to log into or recover a personal Microsoft account after a long period of inactivity or after it was scheduled for closure.
- Observed behavior
- The user is unable to access the account due to outdated contact information and forgotten recovery answers, and the account risks being permanently deleted if past the 60-day grace period.
Gather any previous passwords, associated emails, billing information, or Skype and Xbox details you might remember before starting the automated recovery process.
Submit the Microsoft Account Recovery Form
Use this automated form if you forgot your password or lost access to your secondary email and phone number.
The Account Recovery Form is the primary method to regain access to an account when traditional recovery methods are unavailable. You can submit this form up to two times per day.
Open your web browser and go to the official Microsoft account recovery page at account.live.com/acsr.
Type in the email address, phone number, or Skype name for the account you are trying to recover.
Enter an active email address where Microsoft can contact you regarding your recovery request.
Fill in as much information as possible, including old passwords, email subjects, or billing details, and click submit.
Reopen an Account During the 60-Day Grace Period
If you or Microsoft recently closed the account, you have 60 days to cancel the closure and restore your access.
Create a New Personal Microsoft Account
If the account was inactive for over two years or past the 60-day closure period, it is permanently deleted and cannot be recovered.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Productivity Experience
If your Microsoft account is permanently deleted and you need a reliable productivity suite without the login hassles, try WPS Office. It's a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that lets you start working immediately.
- 1. Visit the WPS Office website: Go to the official WPS Office website to download the latest free version for your device.
- 2. Install the software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Open and edit your files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office files to resume your work instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reuse the email address of a deleted Microsoft account?
No, once a Microsoft account is permanently deleted, Microsoft does not allow the reuse of the same account name or email address for security reasons.
How long until an inactive Microsoft account is closed?
Microsoft accounts are typically closed and scheduled for deletion after two consecutive years of inactivity.
Can I recover a Microsoft account without my registered phone number or alternate email?
Yes, you can attempt recovery using the Microsoft Account Recovery form at account.live.com/acsr, where you will need to provide detailed historical information about the account to verify your identity.
