Fix Microsoft Store Not Sending Verification Codes

If the Microsoft Store app is not sending verification codes, you can often fix it by checking your Microsoft account security info, clearing the Store cache, and reviewing your privacy settings. This guide walks you through the most effective fixes, from simple checks to more advanced resets.

What You’ll Need

• Access to the email address or phone number associated with your Microsoft account
• Your Microsoft account password (you may need to sign in)
• An internet connection
• Administrator rights on your Windows PC (for some steps)

Step-by-Step

1. Check your Microsoft account security info. Go to account.microsoft.com/security in a web browser. Sign in if needed. Under “Security,” verify that the email address and phone number listed are correct and that you can receive messages there. If the contact is wrong or outdated, update it and try again.
2. Confirm you’re requesting a code correctly. In the Microsoft Store app, when asked to verify, choose the correct option (email or phone) and make sure you’re checking the right inbox or message app. Sometimes the code arrives in a spam or promotions folder, or as a text from an unknown number.
3. Wait a few minutes. Verification codes can be delayed by network issues or server load. Wait 5–10 minutes and check again before requesting a new code. Requesting too many codes can trigger a temporary block.
4. Clear the Microsoft Store cache. Press Windows + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. A blank Command Prompt window will open; wait for it to close and the Store to open automatically. This clears temporary Store data that might interfere with sign-in.
5. Reinstall the Microsoft Store app. Open PowerShell as administrator (right-click Start, select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” or “Terminal (Admin)”). Type Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"} and press Enter. This reinstalls the Store without losing your apps.
6. Check your privacy and notification settings. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Notifications, and make sure notifications for the Store are enabled. Also, in the Store, click your profile icon > Settings, and ensure “Show notifications” is on.
7. Sign out and back in. In the Microsoft Store, click your profile icon at the top, select “Sign out,” then restart the Store and sign in again. This refreshes your authentication token.
8. Check for Windows updates. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart your PC. Outdated Windows components can cause Store issues.
9. Use a different verification method. If you have multiple options (email and phone), try the other one. If you have an authenticator app set up, use that instead of a code.

Common Mistakes

• Checking the wrong inbox: The code may go to a different email alias than the one you’re looking at. Log into your Microsoft account online and review all aliases.
• Requesting codes too quickly: Spamming “Send code” can trigger a temporary block. Wait 5–10 minutes between requests.
• Ignoring the spam folder: Always check junk/spam folders for emails from Microsoft.
• Using an outdated phone number: If you changed your phone number and didn’t update it, the code goes to the old number.
• Skipping the cache clear: A corrupted Store cache is a common cause; wsreset.exe is quick and often resolves the issue.

Tips

• Use a strong, unique password for your Microsoft account to reduce the chance of security blocks.
• Set up multiple verification options (email, phone, authenticator app) so you always have a backup.
• Keep your Windows OS and Store app updated regularly to avoid known bugs.
• If you’re traveling, ensure your phone can receive international texts or use email instead.
• Consider using the Microsoft Authenticator app for push notifications instead of codes – it’s often more reliable.

Troubleshooting

If the steps above don’t work, try these additional checks:

• Check Microsoft Service Status: Visit the Azure status page or Microsoft’s service health page to see if there’s an ongoing outage. If so, wait until it’s resolved.
• Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, select “Windows Store Apps,” and run it. Follow the prompts.
• Create a new local admin account: If the Store still fails, create a new Windows user account, sign in with it, and try the Store. If it works, the issue is with your profile – you can migrate your data.
• Reset the Microsoft Store app: In Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find Microsoft Store, click the three-dot menu, select “Advanced options,” then “Reset.” This clears the app’s data completely.
• Check proxy or VPN settings: A VPN or proxy can interfere with Microsoft’s verification service. Temporarily disable them and try again.
• Contact Microsoft Support: If nothing works, your account may be locked or have a security issue. Go to support.microsoft.com and initiate a chat or call with a support agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did I stop receiving verification codes from Microsoft?

Common reasons include outdated contact info, a temporary block due to too many requests, server outages, or your email/phone provider filtering the message. Check your spam folder and verify your security info online.

How long does it take for Microsoft to send a verification code?

Usually within a minute. If it takes longer than 5–10 minutes, check your spam folder or try a different method. Avoid requesting multiple codes in a short time.

Can I use the Microsoft Authenticator app instead of a code?

Yes, if you’ve set it up. The app gives you a push notification or a code that refreshes every 30 seconds. It’s often more reliable than email or SMS.

What should I do if the code is sent to an old phone number?

Sign in to your Microsoft account online using your password and any other verification method you have. Go to Security > Update info to change your phone number. If you can’t sign in, use the account recovery process at account.live.com/acsr.

Why does the Microsoft Store keep asking for verification every time I sign in?

This can happen if your device isn’t recognized as trusted. When you sign in, check the box “Don’t show this again on this device” or “Keep me signed in.” Also, ensure you’re not clearing cookies or using a private browser.

Does clearing the Store cache delete my apps or purchases?

No, wsreset.exe only clears temporary files and cache. Your installed apps and purchase history remain intact.

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