Recover Outlook data file Folder

Timothy Pyle 20 Reputation points
2026-06-09T06:10:37.8066667+00:00

I need help in recovering an Outlook data file folder, I deleted the entire folder/file in error to correct a sync issue with gmail.

Can you please help me recover this file? It is not in the deleted folder trash recycle bin I can’t locate it anywhere.

Time has historical and current business information the folder was named ‘Music Business.

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For home
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Answer accepted by question author
Chloe-V 13,450 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2026-06-09T12:35:58.27+00:00

Hi Timothy Pyle,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum. 

I’m sorry to hear that the “Music Business” folder is missing, especially as it contains important business information.

Please note that this is a user-to-user support forum. Moderators, contributors including external Microsoft employees cannot directly intervene in Microsoft product features or access back-end systems. Our role is limited to providing technical guidance on reported issues, requests, or ideas only.

Since you are using classic Outlook, please try the steps below:

  • In classic Outlook, check whether the folder is still under Deleted Items. If you see it there, expand Deleted Items, then drag the “Music Business” folder back to its original location.
  • If it is not in Deleted Items, please sign in to Gmail on the web and check whether the “Music Business” label/folder and emails are still available there. If the data still exists on Gmail’s server, Outlook may be able to sync it again after the Gmail account is repaired or re-added.
  • On your computer, open File Explorer and search for: *.pst *.ost Music Business
  • Please also check these common Outlook data file locations: C:\Users\<your username>\Documents\Outlook Files C:\Users\<your username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook
  • In classic Outlook, you can also check the data file path by going to File > Account Settings > Account Settings > Data Files.
  • If your Outlook data file was stored in OneDrive, please check the OneDrive Recycle Bin online as well.

Please note that if the Outlook data file or folder was permanently deleted and cannot be found in Windows, OneDrive, File History, or another backup location, Outlook may not be able to restore it directly. In that case, recovery will depend on whether the data still exists in Gmail on the web or in a backup copy.


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