Unable to access e-mail

Question

I have an iPad A16 and iPhone 15 pro. For the last week, I’ve been unable to get access into my Hotmail account. It comes up with the same error code on both. I’ve reset passwords, been onto the Microsoft help page where it’s telling me there is no faults with my email. I’m literally pulling my hair out at this point. I’ve set up another email account as a back up account but it’s not recognising it. My phone number is correctly logged as well but any passwords never come through……ANY help/advice would be highly appreciated.

Please note, I’m not tech savvy and my brain is in senior mode. So please explain as simply as possible. Thank you

Answer 1

Hi Sarah B,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum. 

The “Password Incorrect… IMAP account” message usually appears when Apple Mail is trying to connect to Hotmail using IMAP password sign‑in (basic sign‑in). The most effective fix is to remove the account and add it back using the Outlook.com option so it uses the secure modern sign‑in (OAuth).

Please try the steps below on both your iPhone and iPad:

1. Quick web sign-in check

• Open Safari and sign in at Outlook.com using your latest password.

2. Remove the Hotmail account from Apple Mail

• Settings > Mail >Accounts > select your Hotmail account > Delete Account.

3. Add it back the correct way

• Settings > Mail > Accounts > Add Account > choose Outlook.com (not “Other/IMAP”) > complete the Microsoft sign‑in.

4. If it still keeps asking for a password

• Remove the account again > Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data > restart the device > add the account again via Outlook.com.

Fast alternative: If Apple Mail still won’t connect, sign in using the Microsoft Outlook app on iOS (it uses modern sign‑in by default)

Please feel free to let me know if you have any further updates, thanks.

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