Fix 'That Microsoft Account Doesn't Exist' Error in Windows 10

Fix 'That Microsoft Account Doesn't Exist' Error in Windows 10

If you're encountering the "That Microsoft Account Doesn't Exist" error on your Windows 10 device, don't worry. Here are several methods to help you resolve this issue and regain access to your Microsoft account.

How to Fix "That Account Doesn't Exist" Error on Microsoft?​

1. Verify Email Address and Account Activity​

  • Retype Email Address:
    • Double-check that you are typing the email address correctly. Pay attention to typos or misplacements.
  • Check Account Activity:
    • Ensure you have accessed the account with a browser within the last 365 days. Inactivity for more than a year can lead to account deletion.
Mistyping or an inactive account might be the most straightforward reason for encountering the error. Ensuring correct input and recent activity could resolve the issue.

2. Use the Correct Account Alias​

  • Identify Alias:
    • If you have renamed your email address or created a new account, the original email becomes an alias. Ensure you're logging in with the new email address.
Logging in with an alias instead of the primary account can trigger the "account doesn't exist" error. Using the updated account info solves this issue.

3. Reset Your Microsoft Password​

  • Visit Microsoft Account Password Reset Page:
  • Follow the Instructions:
    • Enter your email address, follow the security verification steps, and reset your password.
Resetting your password can help if the system has issues recognizing your current credentials.

4. Find your account name from your Windows 10 PC or Xbox​

  • Click on the Start button on the left side of your Taskbar, and select Settings.
    windows 10 settings

  • Head over to Accounts, then Email & accounts.
  • Check your Microsoft account names under Email & accounts.
    windows 10 email and accounts
  • Another method would be to open any Office 2016 or 2019app and create a new document.
  • Click on the top left corner where it says File, then select Account.
  • You can see your Microsoft account name under User information or in the Product information section.
    microsoft word account name
  • One last method would be to sign in to your email associated with your Microsoft account.
  • Then, check for previous emails from Microsoft.
  • The previous emails from Microsoft will show your account name.

5. Recover Your Account​

  • Go to the Account Recovery Form:
  • Fill Out the Form:
    • Provide as much information as possible, including any previous passwords used and security questions.
This method is useful if you suspect your account has been compromised or if you can't access it despite correct logins.

6. Use a Local Account and Switch Back​

  • Create a Local Account:
    • Open Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
    • Choose Sign in with a local account instead.
  • Switch to Microsoft Account:
    • After creating the local account, go to the same menu and select Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.
    • Enter your Microsoft credentials.
Switching to a local account and back can reset any issues with your Microsoft account settings.

7. Remove Conflicting Accounts​

  • Open Settings:
    • Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
  • Remove Unnecessary Accounts:
    • If multiple accounts are listed (e.g., personal and work accounts), remove the one causing conflicts.
  • Re-add Account If Necessary:
    • After resolving the conflict, you can re-add the removed account if needed.
Conflicting accounts can cause access issues. Removing and re-adding them can clear the error.

8. Contact Microsoft Support​

  • Use the Get Help App:
    • Open the Get Help app on your device and describe your issue.
    • Follow the prompts to chat with a support representative.
  • Visit Microsoft Support Page:
If all else fails, Microsoft's support team can provide personalized assistance to resolve the issue.

Additional Tips​

  • Use Different Devices: Try logging in from a different device or browser to rule out device-specific issues.
  • Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
  • Update Software: Make sure your operating system and browsers are up to date.
By following these detailed methods, you should be able to resolve the "That Account Doesn't Exist" error and regain access to your Microsoft account.
Author
Windows Daily
First release
Last update

More resources from Windows Daily

Top