Microsoft “security info change is still pending”: the 30-day wait
In short
- If you remove all the security info on a Microsoft account, the change doesn’t happen for 30 days.
- Meanwhile Microsoft won’t accept other changes to security settings or billing info, and it notifies your old security info.
- Avoid the wait: add your new phone or email first, then remove the old one.
Microsoft uses your security info, such as a phone number or alternate email, to send codes and check it’s you.
Why the wait
When all the security info on a Microsoft account is removed, Microsoft puts the account in a restricted state for 30 days. During that time, notifications go to your original security info, so if someone else is making the change, you can see it happening.
What you can’t do meanwhile
Microsoft says it can’t accept further changes or additions to your security settings or billing info until the 30 days are up.
How to avoid it
Microsoft says you don’t need to remove old security info unless there’s a security risk, such as someone else having access to your old mailbox. To replace it, add the new info first, then remove the old.
Can’t sign in at all?
Use Microsoft’s sign-in helper, or its account recovery form: see getting back in without your number.
After a one-time number
A number from ReserveSMS receives codes for 20 minutes only, so add an email you keep to your security info straight away. See Microsoft phone verification.
Common questions
Why is my Microsoft security info change pending for 30 days?
Microsoft waits 30 days when all the security info on an account is removed, and notifies the old info, so you can spot a change you didn’t make.
Can I change my Microsoft security info during the 30 days?
No. Microsoft says it can’t accept further changes or additions to security settings or billing info until then.
How do I change my Microsoft phone number without waiting?
Add the new phone or email first, then remove the old one. The wait applies when all security info is removed.