Security passcode emails not being sent

Question

Just updated my security info but the passcode security emails aren't being received by my new security email address, despite it receiving the initial security registration email just fine. The popup will say a security email has been sent to the linked email address, but nothing is received. This linked email is Gmail, not Outlook, but it receives everything else OK, so I'm inclined to believe it is an issue with the Microsoft account.

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Moved from: Windows for home | Windows 11 | Accounts, profiles, and login

Answer 1

Hi Noah Campbell

I understand how frustrating this can be, especially when the new Gmail address successfully received the initial security information registration email but is not receiving the security verification codes afterwards.

To help narrow this down:

• When you go to "Security" > "Manage how I sign in" at https://account.microsoft.com/security, does the new Gmail address show as fully added and verified, or does it show any status such as "pending"?
• How long ago did you update the security information? Was it within the last few hours, or more than 24 hours ago?

In the meantime, please try the following:

1, Check whether the security method has been fully added

• Sign in to https://account.microsoft.com/security
• Select "Manage how I sign in"
• Confirm that the Gmail address appears as an available verification method and is not marked as pending. Microsoft notes that verification codes are only sent to security methods that have been successfully added to the account.

2, Check Gmail filters and Spam/Junk folders

• Search Gmail for messages from @accountprotection.microsoft.com
• Review Spam, Trash, All Mail, and any custom filters.
• If possible, add @accountprotection.microsoft.com to your contacts or safe senders list. Microsoft specifically recommends checking for messages from this address when verification codes are not arriving.

3, Avoid repeatedly requesting codes

• Microsoft advises that excessive code requests can sometimes trigger temporary protections that delay or prevent code delivery.
• If you have made many attempts, wait a while before requesting another code. In some cases, waiting up to 24 hours can help clear a temporary block.

4, Try another verification method if available

• If you have another verified security method (such as Microsoft Authenticator, a passkey, or another recovery email), select "Use another verification method" and see whether codes are delivered through that option.

Please feel free to let me know how it goes after trying these checks. Thanks for your time and understanding.

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