If you live in the UK and can’t access your Hotmail (now Outlook) account, you’re not alone.
Many users across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland encounter password issues with their email, especially when they change phones, forget security details, or experience suspicious login attempts. 🔐
In this guide, you’ll find a clear, easy-to-follow process to recover your Hotmail password and regain access to your inbox. Let’s get started!
📲 Step 1: Visit the Official Microsoft Password Reset Page
To avoid phishing scams, always go directly to Microsoft’s official page:
👉 https://account.live.com/password/reset
Here, select the first option: “I forgot my password” and click Next.
Now, enter your full Hotmail, Outlook, or Live.com email address (example: [email protected]) and type the characters from the CAPTCHA to prove you’re not a robot.
🔑 Step 2: Choose Your Recovery Method
Microsoft offers several ways to verify your identity. The options you see will depend on what recovery information you previously added to your account.
Option 1: Text Message to Your UK Mobile 📱
If you’ve linked your UK mobile number (starting with +44), you’ll see a partially hidden number (e.g., +44****78**). Click “Text” and wait for the verification code via SMS.
Tip for UK users:
If you changed network providers (like moving from Vodafone to O2 or EE), make sure your number is still active and capable of receiving verification texts.
Option 2: Recovery Email 📧
If you previously added a backup email, Microsoft will send a verification code to that address.
Example: j*@gmail.com**
Option 3: Microsoft Authenticator App ✅
If you use the Microsoft Authenticator app, you can verify directly through your mobile device.
📝 Step 3: Confirm Your Identity
Once you select your recovery option:
- Enter the code sent to your phone or backup email.
- If using the Authenticator App, approve the sign-in request.
If you no longer have access to your recovery phone or email, click on “I don’t have any of these” and proceed to the account recovery form.
🛠️ Step 4: Fill Out the Microsoft Account Recovery Form (If Needed)
This form will ask for:
- Previous passwords you’ve used
- Approximate date when you created your Hotmail account
- Frequent contacts (email addresses you’ve sent emails to)
- Email subjects you remember
- Microsoft services you use (e.g., OneDrive, Xbox Live)
👉 UK Tip: Answer as many questions as possible. The more information you provide, the better your chances.
After submitting, Microsoft usually responds within 24 hours.
🔒 Step 5: Create a New Password
Once verified, you’ll be able to create a new password.
For better security:
- Choose at least 8 characters
- Mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
- Avoid personal information like names or birthdays
Example: London2025!Secure
✅ Step 6: Strengthen Your Account Security
After regaining access:
- Update your mobile number and recovery email
- Set up Two-Step Verification
- Download the Microsoft Authenticator App
- Regularly review your account’s sign-in activity at:
👉 https://account.live.com/Activity
🧭 Common Problems for UK Users
- Didn’t receive the SMS code?
Contact your network provider (EE, O2, Vodafone, etc.) to ensure international messages are not blocked. - Old phone number still listed?
Once logged back in, immediately update your recovery info. - No recovery options at all?
Use the Account Recovery Form, providing as many correct details as possible. - Too many failed attempts?
Wait at least 24 hours before trying again to avoid temporary lockout.
📝 Extra Tip: Beware of Scams
In the UK, phishing emails pretending to be Microsoft are common. Never click on recovery links sent from suspicious sources. Always start your recovery at the official Microsoft website.
✅ Conclusion
Losing access to your Hotmail account can be stressful, but following this UK-focused step-by-step guide will increase your chances of successful recovery. Stay calm, provide accurate information, and don’t skip security updates after regaining access.
👉 Need more help? Check out our dedicated FAQ section for Email Password Recovery