Summary This article provides explanations for why verification codes from Microsoft don't always arrive. It includes a list of the most common causes, and solutions for each one.

Learn how to manage your Microsoft account security info and troubleshoot verification code issues.

If you used an email address to get the code, check your junk email folder. Try waiting a bit longer. Some carriers process requests more slowly than others. If you still don’t get the code, use a different security contact method that’s associated with your account to get the code.

When you set up your Microsoft account, you provided an email address and password as security info to protect your account. If you used a non-Microsoft email address, we'll ask you to verify that you have access to that email address by sending you an email with validation instructions.

Your information doesn't actually change in this time. During the 30-day restriction period, we cannot accept further changes or additions to security settings or billing information. Your account is still open and active, and you can still use your email, Skype, OneDrive and devices as usual.

There are a number of possible explanations for why verification codes don't always arrive. Read through the list of the most common causes, and see if any of them apply to you. Note. This content can help you with your work or school account.

If you're prompted to verify your account when you try to send an email message from Outlook.com, it is because we are trying to protect your account. Outlook.com will occasionally prompt you to verify your account, just to make sure you're still you and your account hasn't been compromised by spammers.

We will ask for an email address or phone number that we can send a verification code to. It doesn't have to be your email or phone number - you just need to be able to access it to verify that it's you trying to sign in.

If you received a Microsoft verification code that you did not request, it could be because: someone is trying to access your account, or someone accidentally entered the wrong phone/email when trying to sign in. Learn how to help keep your account secure.

Don't give them the code - they're trying to break into your account and are stuck at the verification prompt. No real company should ever ask you to read your verification code to them over the telephone - especially if they called you.