How to Recover Facebook Password: Step-by-Step

Forgetting your Facebook password can lock you out of your account, but the recovery process is straightforward if you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through the official methods to reset your password using your email, phone number, or trusted contacts, and covers common issues you might encounter along the way.

What You’ll Need

Access to the email address or phone number linked to your Facebook account.
A device with an internet connection (or the Facebook app).
If you don’t have access to your email or phone, you’ll need answers to your security questions or a list of trusted contacts (if you set them up earlier).

Step-by-Step

Go to the Facebook login page. Open your browser and visit facebook.com, or open the Facebook app on your phone.
Click “Forgotten password?”. This link is below the password field on the login screen. In the app, it may appear as “Forgot Password?” or “Trouble Logging In?”.
Enter your email or phone number. Type the email address or mobile number you used to sign up for Facebook. You can also enter your full name and search for your account if you’re unsure.
Click “Search”. Facebook will look for your account. If it finds multiple accounts, select the one that matches your name and profile picture.
Choose a recovery method. Facebook will offer several ways to reset your password, such as:
- Send a code to your email address.
- Send a code to your phone number via SMS.
- Answer security questions (if you set them up).
- Use trusted contacts (if you set them up).
Pick the option that works best for you.
Get the code. If you chose email or SMS, check your inbox or messages for a 6-digit code from Facebook. It may take a few minutes.
Enter the code. Type the code into the field on the Facebook page and click “Continue”.
Create a new password. Enter a strong password that you haven’t used before. Facebook requires at least 6 characters. Confirm it by typing it again, then click “Continue” or “Save Changes”.
Log in. You’ll be redirected to your Facebook feed. If you were logged out of other devices, you may need to log back in there with the new password.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong email or phone number. Make sure you’re using the one you originally registered with. If you’ve changed your email or phone since, you may need to try the other method.
Typing the code incorrectly. Codes are case-sensitive and expire quickly. Double-check the code and enter it promptly.
Ignoring the “Find your account” page. If Facebook asks you to enter your name, make sure to use the exact name on your profile, not a nickname.
Choosing a password you’ve used before. Facebook may reject a password that is too similar to your previous one. Pick something new.
Not checking spam or junk folders. The recovery email might land in your spam folder. Always check there if you don’t see it in your inbox.

Tips

Use a password manager. This prevents future lockouts and helps you create strong, unique passwords.
Set up two-factor authentication (2FA). After you regain access, go to Settings > Security and Login to enable 2FA. This adds an extra layer of protection.
Keep your recovery email and phone up to date. Go to Settings > Personal Information to ensure your contact details are current.
Log out of old devices. If you think your account was compromised, use the “Where You’re Logged In” feature to log out of all devices after resetting your password.
Write down your password somewhere safe. If you don’t use a manager, keep a physical copy in a secure place.

Troubleshooting

I don’t receive the code. Wait a few minutes and check your spam folder. If it still doesn’t arrive, click “Resend code” or choose a different recovery method. If you no longer have access to your email or phone, you’ll need to use the “Try another way” option.

I don’t have access to my email or phone. Facebook offers a “No longer have access to these?” link. You’ll be asked to enter an email address where Facebook can contact you, and then you may need to answer security questions or provide trusted contacts. If you set up trusted contacts, you can ask them for a recovery code.

My account was hacked. If you suspect someone else changed your password, go to the login page and click “Forgotten password?”. Follow the steps, and when you regain access, immediately change your password and review your security settings. You can also report the account as compromised.

I see “No accounts found”. Double-check that you spelled your email or phone number correctly. Try searching by your full name instead. If you still can’t find it, it’s possible the account was deleted or you used a different email.

The code doesn’t work. Codes expire after a short time. Request a new one and try again. Ensure you’re entering the code exactly as sent, without extra spaces.

I’m stuck in a verification loop. Sometimes Facebook asks you to verify your identity multiple times. Try using a different browser or device. If the problem persists, use the “Need more help?” link at the bottom of the recovery page to contact Facebook support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover my password without an email or phone number? Yes, if you set up trusted contacts or security questions earlier. Otherwise, Facebook may ask you to provide a new email address and answer a few identity verification questions.

How long does it take to get the reset code? Usually within a few minutes. If you don’t see it, check your spam folder or wait a bit longer.

Will I lose my messages or friends if I reset my password? No, resetting your password does not delete any of your data. You’ll regain full access to your account.

Can I use the same password I had before? Facebook may allow it, but it’s not recommended for security reasons. It’s better to choose a new, strong password.

What is a trusted contact? A trusted contact is a Facebook friend you choose to help you recover your account. They receive a special code that you can use to regain access if you’re locked out.

What if I don’t remember which email I used? Try entering your phone number if you have one linked. You can also search by your full name and then select your account from the results.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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