Outlook stopped working

Jeff Mahoney 30 Reputation points
2026-06-27T09:09:42.2433333+00:00

My Outlook stopped working 3 days ago. When I try to open it it asks for a password. I've tried everything but still cannot get it to open. after much messing about I have now managed to get out look back on screen but it says it is inactive.

I have even paid $29 thinking it will update my account but it didn't. I am receiving emails but can not send. must be a solution. thanks Jeff

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For home
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Answer accepted by question author
Michelle-N 20,735 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2026-06-27T17:58:55.2666667+00:00

Hi @Jeff Mahoney

Based on the information you provided, here is my understanding of the situation:

  • The Problem: Your Outlook suddenly stopped working three days ago, repeatedly prompting you for a password.
  • Current Status: You managed to get Outlook back on your screen, but it now shows as "inactive." While you are currently able to receive emails, you cannot send any.

To look into this more deeply while protecting your personal data, could you please reply to me via Private Message (PM) with a few extra details?

Specifically, it would be incredibly helpful if you could provide:

  1. Your Email Domain: What is the domain part of your email address? (e.g., @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, or a custom business domain like @yourcompany.com? Please do not share your full email address publicly.)
  2. Outlook on the Web Check: If you log into your email using a web browser (Outlook Web App), are you able to send and receive emails normally there without any password prompts?
  3. An Error Screenshot: If possible, could you send me a screenshot of the exact error message or the "inactive" status you see on your desktop app?

Please check your private inbox, and we will work together to get your Outlook fully up and running again!

If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".  

Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.

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Jeff Mahoney 30 Reputation points
2026-06-28T07:07:55.1533333+00:00

Hi Michelle. I have fixed it. something very easy but It took me a long time to sort it out.

Firstly, I don't know why Outlook stopped in the first place. but after multiple things I did

nothing worked. but this afternoon I thought When I sign into my provider it is now with a pass key.

so, I went there and by passed that and reset my password. instant success.

I am really happy because I thought it out and didn't through my laptop against the wall (only Joking)

but thanks for contacting me that is nice. cheers from Sydney Australia. Jeff

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