If Microsoft keeps asking for an Authenticator code but no code arrives, you can get locked out of your account and subscription. This problem usually comes from sync issues, device changes, or broken two-step verification settings. Follow the steps below in order to regain access safely.
Step 1: Confirm You’re Logging in to the Correct Microsoft Account
Many users own multiple Microsoft accounts. Always verify that you’re signing in with the exact email address linked to your subscription.
- Check whether the account is personal, work, or school
- Avoid auto-filled emails from browsers
- Manually type the email to prevent mistakes
Step 2: Force Refresh Microsoft Authenticator to Receive the Sign-In Prompt
Sometimes Microsoft sends the sign-in request, but the Authenticator app does not fetch it automatically. This usually happens when push notifications delay or the app stays idle in the background.
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app
- Swipe down on the screen to force a refresh
- Wait for the loading indicator to finish
- Check for the sign-in approval or verification prompt
- Complete the verification immediately
Refreshing the app forces Microsoft Authenticator to reconnect to Microsoft’s servers and retrieve pending sign-in requests that did not arrive as notifications.
This step alone resolves the issue for many users.
Step 3: Open Microsoft Authenticator and Use the Code Manually
Do not wait for a notification.
- Open the Microsoft Authenticator app
- Select your Microsoft account
- Enter the 6-digit code shown in the app
- Submit the code before it refreshes (codes change every 30 seconds)
If you expect a push notification, remember: the app still shows the code manually.
Step 4: Use Alternative Sign-In Options
If Authenticator does not work, Microsoft offers fallback methods.
On the login screen:
- Click Sign-in options
- Select I can’t use my Microsoft Authenticator right now
- Try:
- SMS verification
- Email verification
- Backup authentication method (if set earlier)
Always choose the fastest available option.
Step 5: Recover Your Microsoft Account If Authenticator Is Lost
If you deleted the app, changed phones, or lost access completely, start account recovery.
Use the official recovery page: https://account.live.com/acsr
Provide:
- Email address
- Old passwords (if remembered)
- Approximate account creation date
- Subscription or billing details
Microsoft usually responds within 24–48 hours.
Step 6: Contact Microsoft Support for Subscription Access
If your account includes a paid subscription, contact support directly.
Go to: https://support.microsoft.com/contactus
Choose:
- Account & Billing
- Can’t sign in
- Two-step verification issue
Clearly explain:
“I cannot receive Microsoft Authenticator codes and cannot access my paid subscription.”
This increases priority handling.
What You Should NOT Do
- Do not retry login repeatedly (risk of account lock)
- Do not delete the account from Authenticator again
- Do not create a new Microsoft account if a subscription is active
How to Prevent This Problem in the Future
After you regain access:
- Add a backup phone number
- Add a secondary recovery email
- Save recovery codes
- Enable cloud backup in Microsoft Authenticator
These steps prevent permanent lockouts.
FAQs
Why is Microsoft Authenticator code not received during login?
Microsoft Authenticator may fail to fetch the sign-in request if push notifications delay, the app stays idle in the background, or the account is linked to another device.
Why does Microsoft Authenticator not show the sign-in approval?
The sign-in request can remain on Microsoft’s servers even when the app does not display it. Opening the app and force refreshing often pulls the approval instantly.
Can I sign in without Microsoft Authenticator?
Yes. Use Sign-in options on the login screen and choose SMS, email verification, or another backup method if available.
What if I deleted Microsoft Authenticator or changed my phone?
If you removed the app or switched devices without backup, you must recover your account using Microsoft’s official account recovery process.
Does Microsoft Authenticator always send a notification?
No. Push notifications can fail or delay. The app may still contain a manual verification code or pending approval after refresh.
How long does Microsoft account recovery take?
Microsoft usually reviews recovery requests within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the information provided.
Will retrying login many times fix the issue?
No. Repeated login attempts can temporarily lock the account and slow down recovery.
How can I prevent this problem in the future?
Add backup sign-in methods, save recovery codes, and enable cloud backup in Microsoft Authenticator after regaining access.
Microsoft Authenticator login issues feel stressful, but you can usually fix them without losing your account. Start with time sync, then fallback sign-in options, and finally recovery or support if needed. Acting step by step gives the best chance of quick access restoration.
