Forum Discussion
Dormant @outlook.com emal address
When I try to look into my old @outlook.com email address I get a message that it does not exist. When I try to create the exact same email address, I get a message that it already exists. I read something about unused accounts being archived. Any advice will be appreciated.
2 Replies
Those two messages do not establish that the old mailbox is archived and recoverable: an address being unavailable during signup is not proof that its former account still exists. First check the exact spelling and domain of the original address, then try any other sign-in alias or phone number previously associated with the account. Use Microsoft's sign-in helper to investigate the account-not-found message rather than repeatedly creating a replacement. Microsoft's activity policy generally requires signing in at least once every two years, although exceptions apply, including certain purchases and active subscriptions. Consequently, inactivity is a possible explanation, not a confirmed diagnosis from these messages alone. If the account was permanently deleted, Microsoft says it cannot be reopened; creating another account would not restore the old mailbox. Keep recovery details private, and use official account support to clarify the status before paying anyone who promises to recover it.
Accounts which have been inactive for over 2 years, and when no exception applies to the account, get deleted.
See: Microsoft account activity policy | Microsoft Support
Email addresses are not being recycled so you can't create a new account with the old address anymore either.
