i dont recieve authentication code in microsoft authenticator when trying to log in

Arturo Galván Velasco 0 Reputation points
2026-05-13T16:42:16.2733333+00:00

im trying to sign up with my account, but it just gives two options to verify my identity, one which involves a code sent by microsoft authenticator, and the other approving the request via the same app. When i enter the app through my phone, i dont recieve any codes nor requests, and i cant refresh the app.

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
0 comments

1 answer

Sort by: Newest
Most helpful Newest Oldest

  1. AI answer

    2026-05-13T16:42:37.7033333+00:00

    The verification options shown (code from Microsoft Authenticator or approving a request in the app) mean the account is currently configured to use Microsoft Authenticator as the only authentication method. If no code or prompt appears in the app, the app on the phone is not providing a valid second factor for that sign-in.

    Key points and actions based on documented behavior:

    1. Use pull-to-refresh or the Refresh button in Authenticator
      • For sign-ins that are considered anomalous or from unfamiliar locations, push notifications might not appear automatically. In that case, open Microsoft Authenticator (or Authenticator Lite in Outlook), pull down to refresh or tap Refresh, and then approve the pending request if it appears.
    2. Try an alternative verification method if available
      • If another method (SMS, email code, security key, etc.) is configured on the account, use that instead of Authenticator. If the current screen only shows Authenticator options, look for a link such as “I can’t use my app right now” or “Use a different verification option” and select it.
    3. If no other method works or is available
      • For work or school accounts, contact the organization’s Help desk or Microsoft 365/Entra administrator and ask them to clear or reset the MFA settings so that Authenticator can be re-registered. After they clear the settings, the next sign-in will prompt to set up Authenticator again.
      • If the account is a personal Microsoft account and verification codes are not arriving by any method, follow the guidance in the verification-code troubleshooting article, including checking the correct mailbox, avoiding repeated requests, and using the sign-in helper tool if unable to sign in.
    4. If still blocked from signing in
      • Use the sign-in helper tool if unable to sign in to a personal Microsoft account.
      • If issues persist, contact Microsoft Support and request further assistance, noting that support agents cannot send verification codes or change account details but can help route to the appropriate support path.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

    Was this answer helpful?

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.