Reset your Microsoft 365 password

Reset a forgotten password yourself, or change one you know

2 min read Updated Microsoft 365WindowsmacOS

Microsoft 365 includes self-service password reset (SSPR), which lets you reset a forgotten password yourself without waiting for the service desk. Whether it's available to you depends on whether your organisation has turned it on and whether you've registered your security info (such as Microsoft Authenticator or a mobile number).

If you've forgotten your password

  1. Go to any Microsoft 365 sign-in page (for example, office.com) and enter your work email address.
  2. On the password screen, select Forgot my password or Can't access your account?
  3. Complete the verification check and select Next.
  4. Verify your identity using one of the methods you registered earlier, then choose a new password.

Microsoft's step-by-step guide is on the Microsoft Support site.

If you see "contact your administrator"

This message means self-service reset isn't enabled for your account, or you haven't registered any security info yet. Contact the service desk and we'll reset it for you after verifying your identity.

Note

Never share your password or an MFA code with anyone who calls, texts or emails you, even if they say they're from IT. If in doubt, hang up and call the service desk on a number you already know.

If you know your password and want to change it

  1. Sign in to Microsoft 365 and select your profile picture or initials.
  2. Look for the option to view your account. The wording varies slightly between apps.
  3. Choose the option to change your password.

On a Windows device joined to your organisation, you can also press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and choose Change a password.

Choosing a new password

Choose a long passphrase you haven't used anywhere else. A few random words strung together is stronger and easier to remember than a short password full of symbols. See passphrases and password managers for tips.

After changing your password, other devices such as your phone may ask you to sign in again. That's expected.

Still stuck?

If you're locked out and can't reset it yourself, log a ticket from another device or call 1300 079 636.

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