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MAnagement of Microsoft 365 Family after bereavement of account holder

angela glick 20 Reputation points
2026-02-17T20:25:11.2133333+00:00

My husband died recently and I am struggliing to manage the account through his email account which I am trying to wind up.

I have changed the phone number for passkeys successfully and I have changed the account for payment which is due in two months. I cannot add email addresses to the account so that I can remove his. I have used my email address and my daughters email address but they have been rejected as 'being existing usernames??

Also my husband had a new Asus laptop, which does not appear to be logged on this account.

I am concerned that there may be another account in his name that perhaps came as a package with the Asus laptop as Microsoft 365 family is active on the Asus laptop.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Other
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2026-02-17T20:25:24.8133333+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    Managing a Microsoft 365 account after the account holder's death can be challenging. Here are some steps you can consider:

    1. Account Ownership: Since you have changed the phone number for passkeys and updated the payment method, you are on the right track. However, to fully manage the account, you may need to follow the legal process to claim ownership of your husband's account. Microsoft takes account security seriously, so they may require proof of your relationship and his passing.
    2. Adding Email Addresses: If you are unable to add your email address or your daughter's email as aliases because they are recognized as existing usernames, it could be due to those email addresses being associated with other Microsoft accounts. You might want to try using a different email address that is not currently linked to any Microsoft account.
    3. Checking for Other Accounts: Regarding the Asus laptop, it is possible that it came with a trial or separate Microsoft 365 subscription that is not linked to your husband's account. You can check the laptop for any Microsoft account sign-in options or look for any pre-installed Microsoft applications that may prompt for account details.
    4. Support Options: If you continue to face difficulties, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for assistance. They may be able to provide guidance specific to your situation, especially regarding account recovery and management after bereavement.

    These steps should help you navigate the management of the Microsoft 365 account during this difficult time.

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  1. angela glick 20 Reputation points
    2026-02-17T20:31:30.4866667+00:00

    Can I have instructions as to how to make contact with a person to help with this bereavement issue.

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  2. angela glick 20 Reputation points
    2026-02-17T20:30:14.85+00:00

    I need to speak to someone about these issues

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