MFA & Verification Issues

How to Use or Disable Microsoft Authenticator for Upwork

Huma Ashraf Ch Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to properly configure Microsoft Authenticator for their Upwork account, ensure they enter the correct code during sign-in, and understand how to disable the multi-factor authentication (MFA) if necessary.

How to Use or Disable Microsoft Authenticator for Upwork

Product: Upwork and Microsoft Authenticator
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Setting up, verifying, or disabling two-step verification for an Upwork account using the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Observed behavior: Users need guidance on scanning the correct QR code, distinguishing the Upwork code from the Microsoft account code, and navigating Upwork's security settings to turn off MFA.

Before you start

Ensure you have the latest version of the Microsoft Authenticator app installed on your mobile device and that you can currently log in to your Upwork account.

Solution 1Recommended

Enable and Use Microsoft Authenticator for Upwork

Secure your Upwork account by linking it to Microsoft Authenticator using the QR code provided in your Upwork security settings.

Microsoft Authenticator can store verification codes for multiple third-party services, including Upwork. It is crucial to select the specific code generated for Upwork, rather than your general Microsoft account code, when logging in.

Access Upwork Security

Log in to your Upwork account, click on your profile picture in the top right corner, and navigate to 'Settings' > 'Password & Security'.

Initiate Two-Step Verification

Under the 'Two-step verification' section, select the option to enable an Authenticator app. Upwork will display a unique QR code on your screen.

Scan the QR Code

Open the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone. Tap the '+' icon to add a new account, choose 'Other account' (not Personal or Work), and scan the QR code displayed on the Upwork website.

Enter the Verification Code

A new entry labeled 'Upwork' will appear in your Authenticator app. Read the 6-digit code under this specific entry and type it into the confirmation box on Upwork to finalize the setup.

Enable and Use Microsoft Authenticator for Upwork

Save Your Backup Codes: After enabling two-step verification, Upwork will provide you with recovery backup codes. Save these codes in a secure location, as they are essential if you lose access to your authenticator app.

Solution 2

Disable Microsoft Authenticator on Upwork

If you are switching to a new device or no longer want to use MFA, you can disable the authenticator directly from your Upwork settings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Upwork rejecting the code from my Microsoft Authenticator app?

Microsoft Authenticator stores codes for multiple accounts. Ensure you are looking at the 6-digit code specifically generated for the 'Upwork' entry, not the 8-digit code for your main Microsoft account. Also, check that your device's time and date settings are set to update automatically, as codes are time-sensitive.

What should I do if I lose my phone and cannot access Microsoft Authenticator?

If you lose access to the authenticator app, you can use the backup recovery codes provided by Upwork when you initially set up two-factor authentication. If you did not save these codes, you must contact Upwork Support directly and go through their identity verification process to regain access.

Do I have to use Microsoft Authenticator for Upwork, or can I use another app?

You are not restricted to Microsoft Authenticator. Upwork uses standard time-based one-time password (TOTP) technology, meaning you can scan the setup QR code with any standard authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator, Authy, or Duo Mobile.

Login & Account Issues