Password & Account Recovery

How to Reset Microsoft Account Password With a New Phone Number

Chanuka Geekiyanage Oct 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to reset their Microsoft account password but cannot receive SMS verification codes because they have changed their phone number.

How to Reset a Microsoft Account Password After Changing Your Phone Number

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to reset an account password without access to the registered verification phone number.
Observed behavior: The user is unable to verify their identity through the standard SMS code method to complete the password reset.

Before you start

Ensure you have a working alternate email address ready where Microsoft support can reach you with updates regarding your recovery request.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Microsoft Account Recovery Form

Submit an automated recovery form to verify your identity using alternate information such as past passwords and account details.

The Account Recovery form is the primary method to regain access when your security information is out of date. You will be asked questions about your account that only you can answer.

Open the recovery form

Open a web browser and navigate to the official Microsoft Account Recovery page at https://account.live.com/acsr.

Enter the locked account

Type in the email address, phone number, or Skype name associated with the Microsoft account you are trying to recover.

Provide a contact email

Enter a valid, accessible alternate email address where the Microsoft automated system can send you recovery updates and links.

Fill out security details

Provide as much accurate information as possible, including previous passwords, recent email subjects, or billing details, and submit the form.

Tip for success: Submit the form from a device and location (like your home Wi-Fi) that you frequently used to sign in to this account.

Solution 2

Contact Microsoft Support for Manual Recovery

If the automated recovery form fails, you can request manual assistance from a Microsoft support agent via live chat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Microsoft account recovery process take?

After submitting the Microsoft Account Recovery form, it typically takes up to 24 hours to receive a response. Microsoft support reviews the provided information to ensure account security before granting access.

Can I recover my Microsoft account if I don't have an alternate email?

Yes, you can create a new temporary email address specifically to receive updates for the recovery form. Enter this new email in the 'Contact email address' field when filling out the form at account.live.com/acsr.

Why did my Microsoft account recovery request get denied?

Recovery requests are typically denied if the provided information doesn't accurately match the account records. Try submitting the form again from a recognized device and include more specific details like old passwords, billing info, or exact email subjects.

Do I need a Microsoft account to use WPS Office?

No, you do not need a Microsoft account to use WPS Office. You can easily use the basic offline features without signing in, making it a reliable alternative when you cannot access your Microsoft credentials.

Login & Account Issues