password reset

Use Microsoft’s Sign-In Helper instead of repeatedly submitting password-reset requests when your Hotmail account reports too many attempts.^1^

Recover the account

1. Open the Microsoft Sign-In Helper.
2. Enter the full Hotmail address, including the correct domain—for example, @hotmail.com rather than another country domain.
3. Follow the diagnosis and recovery prompts shown for the account.
4. If directed back to password reset:
   • Select where Microsoft should send the security code.
   • Enter the code.
   • Create and confirm a new password.^2^

Microsoft notes that the error can result from repeated incorrect sign-ins, another person unintentionally trying the address, or an issue involving the browser, app, device, or network.^1^

If you can reach the normal reset process

Select Forgotten your password? on the Microsoft sign-in page, enter the Hotmail address, choose a verification email or phone number, and request a code. Enter that code and set the new password.^3^

If the displayed verification email or phone number is unavailable or unfamiliar, return to the Sign-In Helper rather than continuing to request codes.

If an account-recovery request was rejected

Microsoft permits up to two recovery-form submissions per day. Review the information carefully before submitting again; repeated submissions beyond that limit will not help. Microsoft support agents cannot send a reset link or manually change account details.^4^

Do not post the email address, password, verification codes, or other account details in this public forum.

References

1. "You have tried too many times with an incorrect password" error when signing in to your Microsoft account | Microsoft Support
2. My username and password have stopped working | Microsoft Support
3. Reset a forgotten Microsoft account password | Microsoft Support
4. Account recovery unsuccessful | Microsoft Support