Microsoft for Startups – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This page answers the most common questions founders ask about Microsoft for Startups. The FAQs below are based on recurring themes from startup support tickets, emails, and existing Microsoft Learn documentation to help you resolve issues faster and avoid common pitfalls.

Program & Eligibility

Who is eligible for Microsoft for Startups?

Microsoft for Startups is designed for early-stage startups building scalable products. Detailed eligibility requirements are listed in the overview of the Microsoft for Startups application process.

How long does the application review take?

Most applications are reviewed in about three business days. The review process might take longer if Microsoft must verify information. You receive a notification at the email address you used to apply.

Do I need a referral code, and how do I get one?

If a partner in the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network backs your startup, you can ask for a unique referral code to unlock additional benefits. Microsoft doesn't publicly publish the partners and organizations in the Investor Network.

I’m not working with an investor. Can I still get credits?

Yes. If you're new to Azure, you can start with the standard program benefits: $200 for 90 days, then an additional $4,800 for 180 days after successful business verification. If you later receive an investor referral code, you can apply that code in the Azure portal to unlock more benefits.

Can I edit my application after submitting? Can I reapply?

You can’t edit a submitted application. If still pending, follow the confirmation email to delete and reapply. If declined, you may reapply after 14 days.

What happens if my application is rejected?

If your application is not approved, you may be eligible to reapply after addressing the feedback provided during review. Program Support can help clarify reapplication criteria but cannot override eligibility decisions.

Startup credits and activation

How long do I have to activate my Startup credits?

You must activate your Startup credits within 90 days of accepting the Microsoft for Startups program agreement. If you don't activate within this timeframe, your offer expires and you must reapply to regain access.

How long can I use my Startup credits?

Once activated, Microsoft for Startups provides Startup credits that are valid for up to two years. Extensions aren't available.

Why don’t I see my Startup credits immediately after activation?

After successful activation, credits may take several hours to appear in the Azure portal. You can verify credits by navigating to Cost Management + Billing → Payment methods.

What does “Already redeemed” mean during onboarding?

This error indicates that the Microsoft account (MSA) associated with your email already redeemed credits from another Microsoft program. You might need to finish using those credits or contact Program Support for assistance.

Do I need a credit card to activate Azure credits?

Yes. A credit card is required for identity verification, usage of services not covered by credits, and seamless transition to pay-as-you-go once credits expire.

Why am I being charged when I still have credits?

Charges typically occur when:

• A service isn't covered by Startup credits
• Credits are exhausted
• Usage is happening in a different billing profile or account.

Accounts, Identity & Billing

What account types are eligible for the Startups offer?

Microsoft for Startups requires a new eligible personal Microsoft account (MSA). Work or school accounts aren't supported today. If you previously used your Microsoft account with Azure Free Trial, Azure for Students, or another Azure offer, you need to create a new Microsoft account before applying.  

What type of account is supported and eligible?  Supported Microsoft accounts include: 

• Outlook.com accounts 
• Hotmail.com accounts 
• Live.com accounts 
• Gmail accounts that are registered as a Microsoft account 
• Personal email domains that are registered as a Microsoft account and aren't managed by an organization 

Do I need a new Microsoft account?  For the current Microsoft for Startups experience, use a new Microsoft account that isn't previously associated with Azure offers, subscriptions, or startup programs.  Your account is ineligible if you previously used it with: 

• Azure Free Trial 
• Azure for Students 
• Previous Microsoft for Startups offers 
• Other Azure sponsorship or promotional offers 

Can I use my work or company email account?  No. Organizational accounts (sometimes called work or school accounts, Microsoft Entra ID accounts, or company accounts) aren't currently supported for Microsoft for Startups sign-up. Customers attempting to use organizational accounts receive eligibility errors during application or credit activation.

Can I change the country or region on my Azure billing profile?

No. You can’t directly change the country or region on an existing Azure billing profile. The supported approach is to create a new Azure billing account in the desired country/region, and Contact Support to request help with moving or re‑establishing subscriptions where possible

Where can I view my invoices and payment methods, or confirm my sponsorship?

In the Azure portal, go to Cost Management + Billing, then Billing profiles to view invoices and payment methods for your profile.

What happens when I use all my startup credits?

When you use all your credits, your sponsorship subscriptions automatically switch to pay-as-you-go billing so you don't lose service.

Benefit Redemption

Why can’t I redeem GitHub, Microsoft 365, or other benefits?

Common reasons include:

• The account has previously redeemed the same benefit
• The account is an existing enterprise account
• You didn't complete eligibility or verification requirements. Program Support can confirm eligibility and guide you through the next steps.

Can benefits be redeemed on an existing enterprise account?

No. Many startup benefits must be redeemed on an account that has not previously redeemed the same startup offer.