Closing a Microsoft account may be necessary for some reasons, such as consolidating accounts, switching to a different email provider, or simply wanting to discontinue the use of the account. If for any reason you want to close your Microsoft account, then you are reading the right article.
In this article, we will provide you with steps on how to close your Microsoft account and go further to explain the implications of closing your Microsoft account.
The Implication of Closing Your Microsoft Account
Before closing your Microsoft account, there are a few implications that come with it. And it is important to put them into consideration before going on with the process.
- Loss of Access: Once your Microsoft account is closed, you will lose access to all services and products associated with that your account. You will lose Products such as outlook.com, Xbox Live, OneDrive, and Skype. Files such as emails, contacts, and subscriptions are linked to the account.
- Email and Communication: Closing your Microsoft account means you will no longer be able to send or receive emails using the associated email address. Additionally, you will lose any contacts and messages stored in your account.
- Data loss: Permanently closing and will result in your losing some of all your data if not all. This includes files emails, files photos, and other information stored in services such OneDrive. So when you decide to close your account, make sure you back up your important data before closing your account.
- App and Game Access: if you are using a Microsoft account for accessing apps and games on devices such as Xbox consoles or Windows PCs, closing your account will make you lose access to those apps.
- Understand the Limitations of Account closure which include the inability to reuse the same email address for a new account.
- Subscription Cancellation: Any subscriptions tied to your Microsoft such as Office 365 or Xbox game pass, will be canceled as soon as you close your account. Make sure to cancel any subscriptions manually beforehand if you still wish to keep them.
It is important to consider these implications and ensure that you have backup copies of important data before proceeding with the closure of your Microsoft account.
How to Close Your Microsoft Account
If you have decided for any reason to close it, then join us as we discuss the following steps to successfully delete your account:
- Visit the Microsoft account closure page using a web browser.
- Sign in to the one you want to close.
- Review the information on the page carefully, as it provides important information as regards you closing your account and the consequences.
- Read through the listed items to ensure that you are aware of the potential loss you may encounter.
- After reading the information about the potential loss.If you are still certain to continue the process you can select the check box to acknowledge that you understood the consequences.
- Click on the “Next” button.
- You may be required to prove your identity by using a code sent to you via email or phone number associated with the account.
- Follow any additional instructions if any to complete the closure process.
It is important to know that deleting your account permanently deletes all data associated with the account. Therefore, ensure you back up important data before you attempt to delete your account.
Frequently asked questions:
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding deleting a Microsoft account
Can I Recover a Deleted Microsoft Account?
No, once it is closed and deleted, it cannot be recovered. All data associated with the account is permanently lost.
How Long Does it Take for a Microsoft Account to be Closed?
After the closure of your Microsoft account, it takes up to 60 days for the process to be completed. During the period, you can still choose to cancel or delete if you change your mind.
Can I Use the Same Email Address to Create a New Microsoft Account after Closing the Previous One?
No, once you close an email address that has been associated with it, you cannot be used to create a new account. You will need to use a new email address for the new Microsoft account.
Can I Close my Microsoft Account if I Have an Active Subscription?
Yes, you can if even you have an active subscription. However, closing your account will lead to the loss of your subscription. Always remember to carefully consider the consequences and make necessary backups.
Conclusion
Closing your Microsoft account is an important decision that requires careful consideration and appropriate preparation. We have demonstrated how you can easily navigate the account closure procedures with ease. Remember to take necessary precautions such as backing up data and resolving any pending issues, before initiating the closure. By understanding the implications and following the steps mentioned above, you can decide if you still want, and if yes, you successfully close it.
