A Microsoft app for iOS and Android devices that enables authentication with two-factor verification, phone sign-in, and code generation
This usually means the second verification method is temporarily blocked. With two-step verification, resetting a forgotten Microsoft account password requires the available verification methods to work, and if the phone option shows "This option isn’t available at this time" or "this method is unavailable now", there is no manual bypass in the reset flow.
Try this in order:
- Stop repeated reset attempts for now. Repeated requests can trigger a temporary block or extend it.
- Wait before trying again. Microsoft guidance says a day may be enough, but if it does not clear, wait longer — as long as possible up to 1 week.
- Try another network. Switch between Wi‑Fi and mobile data, or use a different Wi‑Fi network.
- Check for another verification option. On the reset page, look for options such as Use a different verification option, Other ways to sign in, or I don’t have any of these.
- Use the Sign-in Helper tool. This is the recommended troubleshooter for sign-in and recovery issues: Start
- If no verification methods are usable and the password is forgotten, submit the account recovery form. Start with the guidance here: Help with the Microsoft account recovery form, then submit here: Recover account
Important limits for this scenario:
- If two-step verification is enabled, recovery may require two valid verification methods.
- If only the same phone method is offered and it is unavailable, the password reset flow cannot continue until another valid method is available or the recovery path succeeds.
- If access to all security info has been replaced, Microsoft states there is a 30-day wait before sign-in is possible.
If the account is specifically locked and the sign-in page does not show Next, use the aka.ms/ link shown in that window and submit the reinstatement form. Microsoft advises not to submit multiple requests because that can slow review.
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