How to Fix Microsoft Not Sending Verification Code Email

The inability to receive verification codes via email is a prevalent issue that can hinder the linking of video game accounts from console to PC, such as Activision and Epic accounts.

This issue is not limited to gaming but extends to more critical areas like banking, emphasizing the urgency of a resolution.

Fix 1: Check Spam Folder or Junk Email Folder

Verification codes may inadvertently land in the Junk Email folder. It is advisable to inspect this folder for the elusive verification code.

Fix 2: Verify Contact Information

The receipt of verification codes requires a verified email with the service you’re attempting to link. If your email is unverified, verification codes may not be delivered.

Fix 3: Add Sender To Safe Senders List

Email providers’ spam filters can sometimes block verification codes. To circumvent this, add the sender’s email address to the Safe Senders list.

1. Navigate to Settings > View all Outlook settings > Junk email > Safe senders and domains.
2. Add the sender’s email address.

Fix 4: Review Your Email Rules

Existing email rules could interfere with the delivery of verification codes to your inbox. It is recommended to review these rules and their potential impact on email delivery.

Fix 5: Mark @accountprotection.microsoft.com As Trusted Sender

Verification codes are sent from an @accountprotection.microsoft.com email address. Check your junk email folder for a message from this address and use the code provided. To ensure future delivery to your inbox, mark @accountprotection.microsoft.com as a trusted sender.

Fix 6: Review Your Email Filters

If you have email filters in place, check if they have inadvertently filtered out the verification code email from your inbox. This step ensures that no system-level blocks are preventing the receipt of crucial emails.

Fix 7: Experiment with Different Devices/Networks

To rule out device or network-specific issues, attempt to request the verification code from a different device or network.

Fix 8: Utilize the Authenticator App

The Microsoft Authenticator app offers a more secure and reliable method for two-factor authentication, bypassing the need for verification codes via email or SMS.

Fix 9: Try a Different Email Address

If you’re using one Microsoft account to verify another, it can be challenging to keep track of which account you’re signed in to. Most browsers automatically sign you out of the first account (requesting the code) when you sign in to the second account (to receive the code). To circumvent this:

1. Sign in with the first account using a browser in privacy mode, allowing you to stay signed in to both accounts simultaneously.
2. When prompted to enter the verification code sent to your alternate email address, keep the browser window open.
3. Open a new window in privacy mode (Ctrl + Shift + P is the shortcut for InPrivate Browsing in Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer).
4. Sign in to your alternate email account in the new window and find the message from the Microsoft account team. Note down the verification code from the message.
5. Return to the window requesting the verification code, enter the code, and follow the instructions.

Fix 10: Engage Outlook In-app Support

If the issue persists despite the above steps, it may be necessary to consult with Outlook In-app support, the team responsible for handling Outlook.com email-related issues.

1. Sign in to Outlook Live on your browser.
2. Select Help.
3. Type “contact support” in the Search help bar located on the right-side hand corner and press Enter.
4. Look for “Still need help?” in the search results and select Yes. This will provide an option to chat with a support agent in your web browser.

This guide provides a comprehensive approach to resolving the issue of not receiving verification codes from Microsoft, ensuring a seamless experience for all users. Remember, patience is key in troubleshooting, and every problem has a solution.