My Microsoft account was locked, how long should I wait for a response?

Tasak abi 0 Reputation points
2026-09-12T17:38:54.5433333+00:00

Hi,

My Microsoft account was recently locked, and I'm currently waiting for the account review.

I have already submitted the review form and provided the information requested. I just wanted to ask if anyone knows how long these reviews usually take.

How long does it normally take to receive a response? Could I expect a response within a few days, or can it sometimes take longer?

Also, if the review finds that there was a mistake, is it possible for the account to be unlocked?

I'm mainly asking because I don't know how long I should expect to wait. I would really appreciate it if someone who has experienced the same situation could share how long it took for their account to be reviewed and whether they were able to get their account back.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Microsoft 365 and Office | Subscription, account, billing | Other | Windows
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  1. Onyx Is here 4,850 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-12T18:28:06.0633333+00:00

    Sorry to hear you're having trouble.

    As well as the information already supplied I wanted to mention that you should keep an eye on your email including the junk/spam folder for a reply regarding the form completion.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-12T17:39:08.9833333+00:00

    If the account review was submitted through the Microsoft account recovery form, the result is sent to the working email address provided within 24 hours.

    If the account was locked and there was no Next button during sign-in, the account may have been locked for suspicious activity or a Terms of Use issue. In that case, the reinstatement request is reviewed by a Microsoft Online Safety support agent, who will contact by email after the form is reviewed. The guidance says not to submit additional requests, because that can slow the response.

    If the review determines the account can be restored, the account can be unlocked or instructions to sign back in are sent by email.

    If the request was not verified through the recovery form, another attempt can be made, up to two times per day.

    Practical expectation based on the documented guidance:

    1. Recovery form: expect a response within 24 hours.
    2. Locked-account reinstatement form: a response is sent after agent review; avoid duplicate submissions because they may delay processing.
    3. Check the inbox and junk/spam folder of the working email used on the form.

    References:

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

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