How do I recover access to a Gmail or Google account?
Answer
Start recovery from Google’s official account recovery page on a device you have used before. Enter the email address, follow the Forgot password prompts, and use a recovery phone, recovery email, or previously trusted device when asked.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Stop if a site or caller asks you to pay to unlock Gmail or install unknown software.
Follow these steps
Open Google account recovery
On a browser or the Google app, go to Google’s official sign-in page, enter the Gmail address, then choose Forgot password. Prefer a device or browser where you have signed in before.
You should see: Google shows recovery options such as a text, call, recovery email, or prompts on a trusted device.
Use a recovery method you control
Choose the recovery phone or recovery email you still own, enter the code Google sends, and complete any identity questions exactly as shown. If a method is unavailable, try another listed option before giving up.
You should see: Google accepts the recovery step and lets you create a new password or finish sign-in.
Retry from a familiar device if it fails
If recovery fails, wait a short time, then try again from a phone or computer you used with that account recently, and answer only the prompts Google shows. Avoid random password guesses that can slow recovery.
You should see: Google recognizes the familiar device or answers and offers a clearer path to reset access.
Secure the account after you get back in
After sign-in works, open Google Account security settings, update the password, confirm the recovery phone and recovery email, and review recent security activity.
You should see: The account is signed in again and recovery details are current for next time.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A Forgot password or account recovery screen on accounts.google.com, plus whether you still receive codes on the recovery phone or recovery email.
Before you change anything: Use only Google’s official recovery site or the Google app sign-in screen. Try from a phone, tablet, or computer you have signed in on before when possible. Do not pay anyone who claims they can unlock Gmail. Never share your password, recovery codes, or one-time codes with unexpected callers or texts.