Password & Account Recovery

How to Reset Microsoft Account Password With Wrong Phone Number

Amos Gikunda Oct 9, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to reset their Microsoft account password but cannot proceed because the phone number displayed for identity verification is incorrect, unfamiliar, or inaccessible.

How to Reset a Microsoft Account Password When the Phone Number Is Wrong

Product: Microsoft Account
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to reset a forgotten Microsoft account password when the linked phone number cannot be used to receive the security code.
Observed behavior: The standard password reset flow halts because Microsoft prompts for verification using a phone number the user does not recognize or no longer owns.

Before you start

Ensure you are attempting the recovery process from a familiar device and Wi-Fi network that you frequently use to sign into your Microsoft account, as this increases the likelihood of a successful recovery.

Solution 1Recommended

Use an Alternative Verification Method

Bypass the incorrect phone number by selecting a secondary email address or authenticator app associated with your Microsoft account.

Microsoft typically allows multiple security methods to be linked to a single account. If the primary phone number is incorrect, you can switch to an alternate option.

Go to the Reset Page

Navigate to https://account.live.com/password/reset in your web browser.

Enter Account Information

Input the email address or Skype name associated with the Microsoft account you are trying to recover.

Select a Different Verification Option

When prompted to verify your identity, look for an option that says 'Show more verification methods' or 'I don't have any of these'. Select an alternative, such as your secondary email address.

Retrieve and Enter the Code

Check your alternate inbox for the security code, enter it on the Microsoft verification page, and follow the prompts to create a new password.

Solution 2

Submit the Microsoft Account Recovery Form

Use this official form to prove your identity if you have absolutely no access to any of the saved verification methods.

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1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Microsoft showing an unfamiliar phone number for my password reset?

This usually happens if your account information was outdated, a typo occurred during the initial setup, or in rare cases, if the account was compromised by an unauthorized user changing the security settings.

How long does it take for Microsoft to process the account recovery form?

Microsoft typically reviews account recovery form submissions and sends an update to your provided contact email address within 24 hours.

Can I reset my Microsoft password without any verification methods?

If you lack access to all saved verification methods (like the linked phone number and secondary email), your only option is to fill out the Microsoft Account Recovery Form to prove your identity manually.

Is there a limit to how many times I can submit the recovery form?

Yes, Microsoft restricts submissions to a maximum of two times per day. It is highly recommended to gather as much accurate account information as possible before making another attempt.

Login & Account Issues