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How to Fix Microsoft To Do Showing a Former Project Member's Name

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to update the display name in Microsoft To Do because the app continues to show a former project member's name.

Product: Microsoft To Do
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: A Microsoft account has been reassigned to a new user, but the old identity information is still cached or failing to synchronize properly.
Observed behavior: Microsoft To Do persistently displays the name of a former project member instead of the newly assigned user's name.

Before you start

Ensure you have the login credentials for the reassigned Microsoft 365 account and check if your organization’s administrator has already updated the display name in the admin center.

Solution 1Recommended

Clear App Cache and Re-login

Clearing the app's local cache forces it to fetch the latest account identity information and drop the former member's data.

Microsoft To Do may be using cached account information. Resetting the app data or reinstalling the app will clear out the outdated identity details.

Reset the app on Windows

Navigate to Settings > Apps > Microsoft To Do > Advanced options, and click on Reset.

Clear data on Android

Go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft To Do > Storage, then tap Clear cache and data.

Reinstall on iOS

Delete the Microsoft To Do app from your home screen and reinstall it from the App Store.

Check the web version

Web Version Check: If the correct name shows up on the web version, the issue is strictly related to your local device cache.

Solution 2

Verify Directory Synchronization

Check the main directory to ensure the display name has actually been updated at the organizational level.

Solution 3

Create a New Account for the Replacement User

Provisioning a fresh account prevents lingering identity issues and ensures a clean slate for the new team member.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft To Do keep showing the old user's name?

This happens because the app caches old identity information locally on your device, or there is a delay in directory synchronization from Microsoft Entra ID after the account is reassigned.

How long does it take for a display name change to sync in Microsoft 365?

It can take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours for a display name change made in the Microsoft 365 admin center to fully synchronize across all apps and services, including Microsoft To Do.

Can I change my display name directly inside the Microsoft To Do app?

No, Microsoft To Do pulls your display name directly from your Microsoft account or Microsoft 365 organizational profile. You must update the name in your global account settings or have an IT administrator change it.

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