my authenticator doesn’t work

Follow these checks and fixes in order:

1. Confirm notifications are allowed

• On the phone, open Settings → Notifications.
• Find Microsoft Authenticator and ensure:
  • Notifications are allowed.
  • Sound/vibration is enabled if alerts are needed.
• If the app is closed and no notifications arrive, also check:
  • The phone is not in Do Not Disturb/Quiet mode.
  • Other apps can receive notifications (to rule out a system/OS issue).

2. Check network and time settings

• Make sure the phone has a working internet connection (Wi‑Fi or mobile data).
• Switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data to see if notifications start working.
• Ensure date and time are set automatically and correctly in system settings. Incorrect time can cause “expired” or failed notifications.

3. Verify the notification is not going to another device

• If Authenticator is still installed on an old phone, push notifications may be sent there instead of the current phone.
• If possible, open Authenticator on the old device and approve the sign‑in.
• Then remove the old device or Authenticator registration using the guidance in the FAQ so future prompts go to the new phone.

4. Check inside the Authenticator app

• Open Microsoft Authenticator and make sure the app itself is unlocked (no app lock screen blocking prompts).
• If some accounts receive notifications but others do not, remove the problematic account from Authenticator and add it again, allowing notifications when prompted.

5. If “Authentication did not complete” appears If a message like “Authentication did not complete” is shown:

• Ensure the app is unlocked.
• Confirm notifications are not silent/disabled.
• Verify the app is updated to the latest version from the store.
• Recheck network connectivity and automatic date/time.

6. If still unable to receive notifications

• Use another verification method if offered (for example, SMS or a verification code) to sign in.
• If no alternative method works and this is a work/school account, contact the organization’s IT admin and ask them to reset or re‑register MFA for the account.
• If this is a personal Microsoft account and codes/notifications still fail, follow the guidance in the verification-code troubleshooting article linked from the FAQ.

References:

• Microsoft Authenticator FAQs
• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Authentication did not complete