A Microsoft account recovery code is a 25-digit code used to help you regain access to your account if you forget your password or if your account is compromised.
How to get a Microsoft account recovery code
Go to the Manage how I sign in page of your Microsoft account Security dashboard by selecting the button below.Manage how I sign in
Scroll down to the Recovery code section and select Generate a new code.
Caution: As soon as you create a new recovery code, any previous codes will no longer work.
Print the recovery code and keep it in a safe place. For security, do not store the code on a device used to sign in to your account.
How do I download my Microsoft account recovery code?
You cannot retrieve or download an existing Microsoft account recovery code:
If you can sign in, you can create a new recovery code at any time using the steps above.
If you cannot sign in, use the Microsoft account sign-in helper.
How to sign in with a Microsoft account recovery code
Start signing in to your Microsoft account by entering your username.Sign in
If you don't have access to any sign in verification method or have forgotten your password, select Other ways to sign in.
Note: Some of the following steps may vary, depending on the level of security on your account, and the range of numbers or email addresses you have added.
Select Use my password then Forgot password?
Select Use a different verification option then I don't have any of these.
At the Do you have an account recovery code? prompt, enter your recovery code.
Tip: Recovery codes are not case-sensitive and don't require spaces or dashes.
Once you enter a valid recovery code, you will be given the option to update your password.
Note: If your account has two-step verification turned on, you must wait 30 days for changes to take effect. Learn more.
See also
Forgotten your Microsoft account username
Need more help?
Can't sign in?
If you can't sign into your Microsoft account, most issues can be identified by our sign-in helper tool.Sign-in helper
Contact Support
For technical support, go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter your problem and select Get Help. If you still need help, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option.
Important: To protect your account and its contents, our support agents are not allowed to send password reset links, or access and change account details.
