How To Delete Outlook Account
Introduction
Microsoft Outlook is one of the most popular email services around. At times, stemming from a need to declutter digital spaces, simplify online engagements, or dismiss a no longer used email account, you may decide to delete your Outlook account. However, it’s important to note that closing your Outlook account deletes not just the email account, but also all the associated services including OneDrive, Xbox Live, Skype, and others. If you’re sure that’s the route you wish to take, this article will guide you on how to seamlessly delete your Outlook account.
A Step by Step Guide on How to Delete an Outlook Account
Step 1: Backup Important Emails and Contacts
Before initiating the process, ensure you’ve saved any important emails, contacts, or files from the account onto a different platform. This step is important because once the Outlook account is deleted, recovering these files becomes impossible.
Step 2: Visit the Close Your Account page
Access the Close Your Account page by visiting this URL: https://account.microsoft.com/account/closeaccount on a web browser. You may need to sign in to the Microsoft account you intend to delete.
Step 3: Check Your Account Status
Microsoft will check if there are any remaining due payments, ensure all the subscriptions are canceled, and confirm if there are any children’s accounts linked to your account. Should there be pending issues, you’ll be guided on how to resolve them before proceeding.
Step 4: Read the List of Losses Information
Microsoft will provide a list of losses you’ll suffer, such as loss of data and other benefits related to the account. Confirm by ticking each box that you understand and accept the losses.
Step 5: Choose a Reason for Leaving
Select the most appropriate reason for deleting your account from the dropdown menu. If none suit your specific case, select ‘My reason isn’t listed’.
Step 6: Finalize Account Deletion
After completing all the steps above, click on the ‘Mark account for closure’ button to initiate the account deletion process. Microsoft takes security seriously, hence, your account will remain open for 60 days before it’s finally deleted in case you wish to recover it.
How to Contact Customer Support?
If complications arise during the deletion process, get in touch with the Microsoft support team at https://support.microsoft.com/contactus. Here, you’ll be guided on how to resolve the issue or communicate directly with a customer care representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover my Outlook account after deletion?
Yes, as long as it’s within 60 days from the date of initiating deletion.
Will my deleted Outlook email address be reusable?
After your account is permanently deleted, the email address will not be available for reuse.
Can I remove an Outlook email account without deleting it entirely?
Yes, you can remove an account from an Outlook application without completely deleting it.
What happens to my OneDrive and other Microsoft services after deleting my Outlook account?
All data and services linked to the Outlook account, including OneDrive, Skype, Xbox Live among others, will be permanently deleted.
Can I close my Microsoft account if I still owe some pending payments?
No, you need to clear all outstanding payments before you can close your account.
Conclusion
Remember, deleting your Outlook account is a permanent action that also removes your access to all other Microsoft services. Therefore, you need to be absolutely sure before going forward. The outlined steps make the process easy to carry out, ensuring all relevant data is saved before final deletion. Always consult with Microsoft’s customer support for any queries or challenges experienced during the process. Take charge of your digital space, and manage your accounts according to your preferences and needs.