HELP WITH OUTLOOK VERIFICATION

Question

How the hell do I change my phone number to authenticate. I no longer have access to the number on the account and cannot find where to switch it without having to send the old phone number a verification which i don't have access to. What do i do?

Answer 1

On the page asking for the code, look for an option like “Show more verification methods” to see if you have a backup (e.g., a phone number or alternate email).

If you don’t have access to any of the options listed, select “I don’t have any of these.” This will begin the recovery process. As part of that process, Microsoft will let you add new contact information — but only after a 30-day waiting period.

This 30-day delay is intentional. It’s a security safeguard designed to protect users in case someone else tries to hijack their account by changing recovery info. The wait gives the rightful owner time to notice and stop unauthorized changes.

Unfortunately, this policy cannot be bypassed. You can read more about it directly from Microsoft here:

https://support.microsoft.com/account-billing/-your-security-info-change-is-still-pending-or-you-can-t-access-this-site-right-now-microsoft-account-message-cbd0f64f-02d9-45d2-90c3-2375e5a72e52#:~:text=While%20we%20understand%20this%2030,phone%20number%20or%20email%20address.

Answer 2

To change your phone number for authentication in Outlook, you will need to work with your administrator if you cannot access the old phone number for verification. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Contact your administrator: Ask them to update your phone number in the system. They can do this by accessing the user management settings in the Microsoft Entra admin center.
2. Update your authentication methods: Once your administrator updates your phone number, you can add or change your authentication methods by signing in to the Microsoft Entra admin center yourself, if you regain access.

If you are unable to reach an administrator, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

---

References:

• Error when you try to reset your password in Azure, Office 365, or Intune: We could not verify your account
• Manage user authentication methods for Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication