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How to Upgrade Microsoft 365 Licenses After Migrating from GoDaddy
Question details
The user needs to upgrade their Microsoft 365 licenses, but their Exchange Email Essentials subscription remains locked and managed by GoDaddy after an email migration.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Migrating business email services and attempting to upgrade or change Microsoft 365 license tiers.
- Observed behavior
- The Microsoft 365 subscriptions remain locked under GoDaddy's management as the syndication partner, preventing direct upgrades via the Microsoft Admin Center.
Ensure you have your primary GoDaddy account credentials and current Microsoft 365 tenant administrator details handy before requesting any billing or license modifications.
Contact GoDaddy to Change or Upgrade Licenses
Because your subscription is associated with GoDaddy as the billing partner, you must go through their support system to upgrade your licenses or transfer tenant control.
When you purchase Microsoft 365 through a syndication partner like GoDaddy, they retain control over billing and subscription management. Even after migrating your email, this tenant relationship prevents you from making direct license changes in the standard Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Navigate to the GoDaddy website and log in using the credentials associated with your Microsoft 365 purchase.
Go to your 'My Products' page and locate the 'Email & Office' or 'Microsoft 365' section to view your current Exchange Email Essentials subscription.
Reach out to GoDaddy customer support to request a license upgrade. Ask specifically about transitioning to Professional plans that include Microsoft 365 desktop applications.
During the support call, confirm who controls the tenant moving forward. If you wish to manage licenses directly through Microsoft in the future, ask about the process for 'defederating' your Microsoft 365 tenant from GoDaddy.
Try WPS Office as a Cost-Effective Alternative
If dealing with complicated subscription management and locked Microsoft 365 licenses is holding back your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible suite for your document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs without the hassle of restrictive partner billing.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Suite: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing Microsoft Office files with perfect formatting retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my GoDaddy Microsoft 365 license directly in the Microsoft Admin Center?
No. Because your subscription was originally purchased through GoDaddy, they act as your exclusive billing partner. You must upgrade through the GoDaddy dashboard or contact their support team.
What is the difference between GoDaddy's Email Essentials and Professional plans?
Email Essentials typically only includes cloud-based email services and web versions of Office. Professional or higher-tier plans usually include the fully downloadable Microsoft 365 desktop applications.
How do I completely remove GoDaddy's control over my Microsoft 365 tenant?
You need to perform a process called 'defederation.' This requires contacting GoDaddy support to release the tenant, which will allow you to establish a direct billing relationship with Microsoft.
Will I lose my emails during a license upgrade with GoDaddy?
Upgrading your license tier within GoDaddy typically preserves all your data and inbox content. However, it is always recommended to back up critical emails before making major subscription changes.
