How to Delete Your Microsoft Account on Desktop and Mobile

A Microsoft account allows you to access various products and services like Windows, Office, Xbox, Skype, OneDrive, Outlook, and more. This guide will show you how to delete your Microsoft account on desktop and mobile.

Deleting your Microsoft account can be a complex process with multiple steps and implications. Here are some considerations before proceeding:

– Back up or transfer any critical data or information you want to access later.

– Cancel any subscriptions or memberships linked to your Microsoft account and remove it from any signed-in devices.

– After deletion, you have a grace period of 30-60 days to reactivate the account. Otherwise, it will be permanently deleted.

If you decide to delete your Microsoft account, there are additional preparations you should make before starting the deletion process. Read on for more details.

Things to Do Before Deleting Microsoft Account

Once you decide to close your Microsoft account permanently, there are a few essential things you should do beforehand.

1. Remove Microsoft Account From Windows

Removing the Microsoft account from your computer is important before deleting it. Follow the steps below.

Step 1: Press the Windows key, type Settings, and open it.

Step 2: In the Settings window, select Accounts from the sidebar. Step 3: Scroll to Account settings and choose ‘Email & accounts’ on the right.

Step 4: List of accounts connected to your Windows computer. Click on the account you want to remove or delete permanently.

Step 5: From the drop-down, choose the Remove button.

Step 6: Click Yes in the pop-up to confirm removing the account from your Windows computer.

That’s it. The connected Microsoft account is immediately removed from your computer, allowing you to delete your Microsoft account. If you have any subscriptions tied to the account, cancel them before deleting.

2. Cancel Your Subscriptions

If you have active subscriptions or memberships linked to your Microsoft account, such as Microsoft 365, Xbox Game Pass, Skype Credit, or OneDrive storage, cancel them before closing your account to avoid potential charges. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit your Microsoft account’s Services & Subscriptions page and sign in if necessary.

Step 2: Find the subscription you want to cancel and click on Manage.
Step 3: Click Cancel or Turn off recurring billing and follow the instructions to confirm your cancellation.

On this page, you can check the status of your subscriptions and see when they will expire. If you have prepaid subscriptions that won’t expire soon, you might want to use them before deleting your account.

Do You Need a Microsoft Account to Use Windows

Many users wonder if they need a Microsoft account to use Windows 10 or Windows 11. The answer is no; a Microsoft account is not necessary to access Windows. You can simply use a local account to sign in to your PC and enjoy most features of Windows. However, there are benefits and drawbacks to using a Microsoft account versus a local account.

Using a Microsoft account offers benefits like syncing settings, one-click access to services and subscriptions, personalized recommendations, and more. However, there are drawbacks, such as requiring an internet connection for initial PC sign-in and potentially sharing excessive information with Microsoft. Now that you understand the differences and completed necessary tasks, let’s proceed with deleting your Microsoft account.

How to Delete Microsoft Account Permanently From Desktop

Step 1: Go to the Close your Account webpage on Microsoft’s official site using the link below and log in.

Step 2: In the deletion form, go through checklists to download records, utilize pending credits, and set up auto-replies. Click Next.

Note: By default, Microsoft waits 60 days before permanently closing the account, but you can change it to 30 days.

Step 3: Review and check every box. Select your reason to delete the account from the drop-down.

Step 4: Click the ‘Mark account for closure’ button.

Microsoft account will be saved as a deactivated account for 60 days, after which it will be permanently deleted. During the deactivation period, if you change your mind, you can log back into your Microsoft account to revive it.

How to Close Microsoft Account From Android or iOS Devices

Step 1: Launch the Microsoft Office app on your iOS or Android device. Note: If you don’t have the app, you can download it from the Play Store or App Store.

Visit Microsoft’s Close Your Account page using the link below. Scroll down and choose Next. You can also choose 30 days from the drop-down menu instead of 60 to reduce the reactivation period. Review the details and check all the boxes until you see the question, ‘Still want to close this account?’

Step 5: Select your reason and tap ‘Mark account for closure.’

Microsoft will delete your account after the set number of days of deactivation. You can reopen your account if you change your mind during the deactivation period.

FAQs on Removing Microsoft Account

1. When you delete your Microsoft account, all associated emails, email data, and folders will be permanently deleted. This includes inbox, sent messages, and contacts. Back up any important emails or data before deleting to prevent loss.

2. No, you cannot use the same email address to create a new Microsoft account. If desired, create a new Microsoft account with a different email address.

3. What happens to my Windows license after deleting my Microsoft account?

Deleting your Microsoft account does not affect your Windows license or activation. It is tied to your device’s hardware, not your Microsoft account. Therefore, your Windows installation and activation will remain unaffected even if you delete your Microsoft account.

No, you cannot delete a Microsoft account without deleting associated services, including Outlook email. Deleting a Microsoft account involves deleting all the services and data associated with it, including emails, files, contacts, and more.

Goodbye, Microsoft

Now that you know how to delete a Microsoft account on desktop and mobile, you can easily close the account, switch platforms, or create a new one. You may also want to learn how to set up Windows without logging in to your Microsoft Account.