Tips to complete account recovery steps

If you can't sign in, to try to get back into your Google Account, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Account recovery page.
  2. As you complete the steps, use as many of the tips below as you can.

Tip: You may not find all the questions described here.

If you already tried to recover your account and got a "Google couldn't verify this account belongs to you" message, you can try again.

Answer as many questions as possible

Try not to skip questions. If you're unsure of an answer, take your best guess rather than moving on to another question. Wrong guesses won’t kick you out of the process.

Use a familiar device & location

If possible:

  • Use a computer, phone, or tablet where you frequently sign in
  • Use the same browser (like Chrome or Safari) that you usually do
  • Be in a location where you usually sign in, like at home or at work

Be exact with passwords

Details matter, so avoid typos and pay attention to uppercase and lowercase letters.

Passwords

If you're asked for the last password you remember, enter the most recent one you recall.

  • If you don't remember your last password: Use a previous one that you do remember. The more recent it was, the better.
  • If you can't confidently recall any previous passwords: Take your best guess.

Enter an email connected to your account

If you're asked to enter an email address you can check now, enter one that you've added to your account. Here are some examples:

  • A recovery email address helps you get back in and is where we send you security notifications.
  • An alternate email address is one you can use to sign in.
  • A contact email address is where you get information about most Google services you use.

Check your spam folder for a message

Important: Google never asks for your password or verification codes over email, phone call, or message. Only enter your password or verification codes at accounts.google.com.

If you expected an email from our team but can't find it, check your spam or junk folder for an email titled "Your Google support inquiry". 

What if I still can't sign in?

  1. Create a replacement Google Account.
  2. Avoid getting locked out of your Google Account.

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