I can't log into my Outlook account.

Follow these steps in order, based on how Microsoft handles blocked sign-ins and missing verification codes:

1. Use the Sign-in Helper
   • Go to the Microsoft account Sign-in Helper: Sign-in Helper.
   • Enter the Hotmail address and follow the prompts.
   • The tool will detect if the account is blocked or locked and tell what action is required (unblock, verify identity, or recover account).
2. If the account is blocked (“Help us protect your account”)
   • This usually means unusual or suspicious activity was detected.
   • Use the unblock flow described here: Unblock my Outlook.com account.
   • When prompted, request a security code and enter it to unblock the account.
3. If verification codes are not arriving
   • Follow the guidance in Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues:
     • Make sure the code is being sent to a valid security method (primary alias or a verified email/phone added as security info).
     • Avoid repeated or excessive requests; too many attempts can cause a temporary block where codes are not sent.
     • Check junk/spam for messages from @accountprotection.microsoft.com.
     • If using SMS, ensure the phone can receive texts, is not blocking unknown senders, and that the inbox is not full.
     • If codes are delayed or blocked due to unusual activity or heavy traffic from the region, wait and try again later.
4. If the phone/SMS option is “unavailable” or rate-limited
   • This can happen after too many attempts or suspicious activity.
   • Stop trying for several hours (often up to 24 hours) so the temporary lockout can clear.
   • After waiting, try again from a familiar device and network (home PC/phone you normally use with this account).
5. If the sign-in page does not show usable verification options
   • If the page only shows an option that doesn’t work or doesn’t fully render, try:
     • Signing in from a different browser.
     • Using a private/incognito window.
     • Trying from another device.
   • Then repeat the verification or unblock steps.
6. If the password is correct but still cannot sign in
   • Use the Recover your account flow: Recover your account (linked from “My username and password have stopped working”).
   • Enter the Hotmail address, choose a method to receive a security code, and reset the password if prompted.
7. If none of the above works
   • Use the guidance in I can't sign in to my Microsoft account: start with the Sign-in Helper.
   • If still blocked or codes never arrive, wait out any lockout period (typically about a day) and then:
     • Try again with the recovery/sign-in helper from a usual device and location.
   • For additional technical help (not for manual unlocking), go to Contact Microsoft Support from the verification-code troubleshooting article and choose Get Help, then Contact Support.

These are the only supported ways to regain access; support agents cannot bypass verification, send codes on request, or manually change account details.

References:

• Unblock my Outlook.com account
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• My username and password have stopped working
• How to sign in to Hotmail
• Microsoft account has been locked
• I can't sign in to my Microsoft account
• Authenticator app not sending code to my email - Microsoft Q&A
• Can't sign in to my email - Microsoft Q&A
• Having problems getting text codes to confirm my account - Microsoft Q&A
• My personal hotmail account hacked by hacker with authentication app enabled. - Microsoft Q&A
• Locked out of my Outlook account and recovery options not working - Microsoft Q&A