I am locked out of my account on my Ipad

Question

I am locked out of my live.com account on my iPad. I have tried a number of times to get back on but my efforts all fail when I ask for a code to reset my password. The error message is that service is not available now. I deleted my account from my iPad and rebooted the iPad. Waited overnight and still cannot get back on. What can I do? I am afraid to change my password on my computer until I know I will be able to get back on my mail account.

Answer 1

Outlook is still going through a service disruption at the moment, so the issue you described may be related to this ongoing situation.

Below is a brief summary, and you can also track updates using this link: https://status.cloud.microsoft/

User impact: Users may experience intermittent issues signing in to Outlook.com.

Answer 2

Follow these steps to regain access while keeping the account working on the computer:

1. Avoid repeated attempts on the iPad for a while
   Since multiple failed sign-in or verification attempts can trigger temporary blocks or service limits, stop trying on the iPad for at least 24 hours. Repeated attempts can reset any time-based lock and keep the block active.
2. Confirm the account still works on the computer
   • Sign in to https://account.microsoft.com from the computer.
   • If prompted, request a security code and complete the verification there.
   • If the account is locked, follow the on-screen steps to get a security code and unlock it. You can use any phone number that can receive text messages; it does not need to be associated with the account.
3. If the account is locked
   • Follow the guidance in Microsoft account has been locked:
     • Sign in at https://account.microsoft.com and request the security code.
     • Enter the code, then create a new password if required.
   • If there is no Next option or a lock notice appears, select the aka.ms/ link shown in the message and complete the reinstatement form. Submit it once and wait for the email response from Microsoft Online Safety support.
4. If verification codes fail or “service not available” appears
   When the iPad shows errors requesting codes or says service is unavailable, it may be due to temporary blocks or network-related issues:
   • Try another verification method already on the account (e.g., alternate email instead of SMS) if offered.
   • Try a different network on the iPad later (switch between Wi‑Fi and cellular, or a different Wi‑Fi).
   • Wait at least 24 hours without repeated attempts if blocks persist, then try again.
5. Re-add the account on the iPad only after confirming access
   Once the account is confirmed working and unlocked from the computer:
   • On the iPad, connect to a stable network (or a different network than before).
   • Add the Outlook/Live.com account again in the Mail app or Outlook app using the same password that works on the computer.
   • If prompted for verification, use the same phone/email methods that worked on the computer.
6. If still unable to sign in or unlock
   • Use the Sign-in Helper for Outlook.com sign-in issues and follow the guided steps.
   • If the account remains blocked or codes still fail, follow the “When you can’t sign in to your Microsoft account” path from the Outlook.com unblock article to reach support and complete the account reinstatement process.

These steps allow confirming and, if necessary, unlocking the account from the computer first, minimizing the risk of losing access, and then safely re-adding it on the iPad.

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References:

• Unblock my Outlook.com account
• Microsoft account has been locked
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• Why can't I log in to my Outlook account? - Microsoft Q&A
• Cannot log in Outlook. - Microsoft Q&A