How to Verify an Email Address for a Microsoft Family Account
Question details
The user needs to verify an email alias to share a Microsoft Family subscription but is having trouble verifying an email address that has not yet been fully created.
- Product
- Microsoft Account
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Setting up a Microsoft Family account or adding a new email alias to share an Office subscription.
- Observed behavior
- The system prompts for verification of an email alias, but the user cannot verify it because the email address does not actually exist yet as an independent account.
Ensure you have access to the inbox of the email address you are trying to verify, as a secure verification link will be sent there. If the email address does not exist yet, you must create it first.
Verify an Existing Unverified Email Alias
Use this solution if you have already created the email address and added it as an alias, but it remains unverified in your Microsoft account.
A Microsoft account requires you to prove ownership of any email alias you add. You must log in to the security settings and trigger a verification email to the alias in question.
Sign in to the Microsoft account security page using your primary Microsoft account credentials.
Find the email address listed in your account settings that is marked as unverified and select the 'Verify' button next to it.
Choose the 'Verify' option next to the specific email address again, and then click 'Send email'.
Open the inbox of the email alias you are verifying, locate the message from Microsoft, and click the enclosed link to complete the verification process.
Create a New Account Before Sharing a Subscription
If you are trying to verify a nonexistent email address, you must create the account first before you can share your Family subscription with it.
Switch to WPS Office for a Hassle-Free Experience
Struggling with complicated account verifications and family subscription setups? WPS Office provides a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft Office. Start working immediately without the need for complex account management or expensive subscriptions.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the straightforward on-screen instructions.
- 3. Start creating instantly: Open WPS Office to immediately create, edit, or save documents without dealing with complex account verifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I verify a nonexistent email address in my Microsoft account?
An email address cannot be verified as an alias until the actual email account exists and can receive mail. You must first sign up for the new email account, ensure it is active, and then add it to your Microsoft account to complete the verification.
How do I share my Microsoft Family subscription with a new user?
Once the recipient has an active and verified Microsoft account, log into your Microsoft Family dashboard, select the option to share your subscription, and enter their email address to send them an invitation.
What should I do if the Microsoft verification email doesn't arrive?
First, check your spam or junk mail folders. If the email isn't there, double-check that you entered the correct email address without any typos. You can then return to the Microsoft security page and click 'Send email' again to request a new verification message.
