Troubles with the updating of my outlook account

Anonymous
2025-04-18T23:08:59+00:00

Hi everyone!
I have a problem with my Outlook account. I've had this account for almost 20 years, and when I created it, I used a friend's email as the recovery address. Now I want to change that because the recovery email is no longer available.
However, when I go to the Security section in my Profile, Outlook requires me to enter a code sent to that recovery email.

The other option says:
"You must wait 30 days for any changes you make to take effect. If you want to avoid the wait: ..."

My question is: if I choose this option, will I still be able to send and receive emails during those 30 days, or will my account be completely blocked? I really can’t afford to be locked out for 30 days — this account is very important to me.

Thank you!!!

Outlook | Web | Outlook.com | Email

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GsN5034 - IA 76,990 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-04-19T09:40:34+00:00

Hi,

Yes, you cannot sign in on new devices, but you can still send and receive emails if you are already signed in to the Outlook app or Outlook online before you change the security information.

On the Verify Your Identity screen, select I don't have these and follow the prompts to replace the security information.

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After 30 days, your new security information will be updated, allowing you to verify your identity with the new information and sign in on all devices.

Let me know if you still need more help.

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GsN5034 - IA 76,990 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-04-19T03:40:33+00:00

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Community and I'll be glad to assist you today.

Yes, you will still be able to send or receive emails on your Outlook account even if your account is put into a restricted state for 30 days.

That is, you should already be signed in to your account on the Outlook.com website or the Outlook app so that you don't have to sign in again. If you replace the security info and try to sign in with your account newly, then you will be blocked. So, make sure you are already signed in with your account on the Outlook app and on the Outlook.com website in your web browser.

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Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-bil...

Important - Make sure two-factor authentication is turned off.

I hope this information helps. If you have any questions, please let me know and I will be happy to help you further.

Best regards,

Gunasekar N

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  1. Anonymous
    2025-04-19T03:54:04+00:00

    Hello Gunasekar N!
    Thank you for your reply. So, I understand that I can't sign in on new devices, but I can still use the account on all the devices where I'm already signed in.

    Once the 30 days have passed, will I be able to change the recovery information right away, or will there be any additional steps I need to take?

    I really appreciate your response. Thank you again!

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