Not possible to log-in to an old Hotmail account

Question

Hi there,

I need your help. I have an old Hotmail account that I need access to. I tried to log-in, but it says that the account doesn't exist. I know for sure that I filled-in the right email. When I tried to fill in the recovery form, it said the same. But when I wanted to create a new account with the email I need to use, it says that the account already exists and I need to come up with a different name. Please help me out, I need access again for something very important.

Kind regards,

Desi

Answer 1

Hello Desi,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Community forum about your issue.

As I understand from your post that you are facing an issue where your old Hotmail account doesn’t exist when you try to log in, but it prevents you from creating a new account with the same email, it’s possible that the account is inactive or has been deactivated.

Here are some steps you can try: -

1. Double-check that you are entering the correct email address, including spelling and domain.
2. Since Hotmail has been merged into Outlook, try logging in at Outlook.com instead of Hotmail.
3. Microsoft may deactivate accounts that haven’t been used for a long time. If your account has been inactive for more than two years, it may have been permanently deleted.
4. If your account still exists but you can’t access it, try using the Microsoft Account Recovery Form. Provide as much information as possible to verify ownership. Microsoft account recovery form

If the issue is resolved, consider marking this response as helpful and answered.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Best regards,

Steve_Rogers | Microsoft Community Moderator