Others

Does Deleting a Microsoft Account Delete the Linked GitHub Account?

Huda Qurayshi Oct 12, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to know if closing their Microsoft account will also result in the deletion of their associated GitHub account.

Product: Microsoft Account / GitHub
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The user has closed or is planning to permanently close a Microsoft account that was previously used to sign in to or was linked with their GitHub account.
Observed behavior: The user needs clarification on whether the GitHub account and its repository data are preserved independently of the deleted Microsoft account.

Before you start

Ensure you have alternative sign-in methods (such as a separate password, passkey, or a secondary email address) configured on your GitHub account before you delete the linked Microsoft account.

Solution 1Recommended

Recover or Access GitHub Using Alternative Authentication

GitHub accounts are completely independent from Microsoft accounts. Deleting your Microsoft account removes access to Outlook, OneDrive, and Xbox, but your GitHub data remains intact. You simply need to use a different method to log in.

Even if you primarily used the 'Sign in with Microsoft' button, your GitHub account is maintained separately by GitHub. You will not lose your repositories, commits, or profile data when the Microsoft account is closed.

Navigate to GitHub login

Open your web browser and go to the official GitHub sign-in page. Do not click the 'Sign in with Microsoft' option.

Enter GitHub credentials

Input your GitHub-specific username or the primary email address that is associated with your GitHub account.

Authenticate your session

Enter your GitHub account password or use another configured authentication method, such as a passkey or a two-factor authentication (2FA) app.

Reset password if necessary

If you never set a specific password for GitHub, click on 'Forgot password?' and follow the prompts to create one using your active email address.

Recover or Access GitHub Using Alternative Authentication

Data Preservation: Your GitHub account status is unaffected by the Microsoft account closure. All projects and linked data remain exactly as you left them.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless Document Experience

If you are closing your Microsoft account and moving away from Microsoft services, you will likely need a reliable new office suite. WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and powerful alternative that offers a familiar interface, ensuring a smooth transition without tying you to a Microsoft ecosystem.

1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office installer from the official website and complete the quick installation process.
2. Open Existing Files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint documents directly.
3. Work Independently: Save and manage your files locally or on your preferred cloud storage without needing a Microsoft account.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx.Free and lightweight, requiring minimal system resources to run smoothly.No Microsoft account required to create, edit, or save your local documents.Familiar user interface makes migrating from Microsoft Office effortless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I unlink my Microsoft account from GitHub before deleting it?

Yes. You can go to your GitHub account settings, navigate to the 'Linked accounts' or 'Authentication' section, and manually remove the Microsoft account connection to ensure smooth access later.

If I used an Outlook email for my GitHub account, will I lose access?

If your Outlook email is deleted along with your Microsoft account, you will not be able to receive password reset emails or notifications from GitHub. You must add and verify a new primary email address in GitHub before closing the Microsoft account.

What happens to my GitHub Copilot subscription if I delete my Microsoft account?

GitHub Copilot is billed directly through your GitHub account. As long as your GitHub account remains active and has a valid payment method, your Copilot subscription will not be affected by the deletion of your Microsoft account.

Office Quick Solutions