Unable to access authenticator

Question

Authenticator, asks me for a code but I can access Authenticator when already have it opened waiting for an access code

Answer 1

This is usually an Authenticator sign-in loop. Try these steps in order:

1. On the sign-in page, select Other ways to sign in and then Approve a request on my Microsoft Authenticator app if that option appears.
2. In the Authenticator app, make sure the app is unlocked. If the app is locked, the entry box might not appear.
3. Check whether there is already another pending sign-in request. Authenticator can process only one request at a time, so wait about a minute for any existing request to time out, then try again.
4. Make sure notifications are enabled for Microsoft Authenticator and that they are not silent.
5. Make sure the phone has internet connectivity. Switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile data can help.
6. Update Microsoft Authenticator to the latest version from the device app store.
7. Verify the phone’s date and time settings are correct.
8. If a prompt may be going to an older phone, check that device. Push notifications can be sent to the device where Authenticator was last used.
9. If another verification method is available, use it instead, such as SMS.
10. If the issue continues, open Authenticator, go to the app’s top-level menu, select Send feedback to capture logs, then contact Support for a personal account or the IT admin/helpdesk for a work or school account.

If the problem happens while setting up passwordless sign-in and the app says "You haven't finished yet", add the account directly inside Microsoft Authenticator first using + Add account, then complete setup.

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• Authentication did not complete
• Microsoft Authenticator FAQs
• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Error message "You haven't finished yet" with passwordless sign-in