Before you start
- A device and Wi-Fi network you’ve used with the account before, if possible
- Your recovery phone number or email address, if you have them
Use Google Account Recovery
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Step 1: Open the recovery page
Go to g.co/recover in any browser. It opens Google’s official account recovery page.
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Step 2: Enter your Gmail address
Type your full Gmail address (or the phone number on the account) and select Next.
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Step 3: Prove it’s your account
Google may ask for the last password you remember, send a code to your recovery phone or email, or ask you to confirm on a phone that’s still signed in. Answer as many questions as you can; if you’re not sure, make your best guess rather than skipping.
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Step 4: Create a new password
When Google confirms it’s you, choose a strong new password you haven’t used before.
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Step 5: Review your security
Open myaccount.google.com/security, check your recovery phone and email are up to date, and sign out of devices you don’t recognise.
Troubleshooting
Google couldn’t verify that the account belongs to me
Wait a day and try again from a familiar device and network, giving as much detail as you can. Repeated attempts in a short time don’t help.
I no longer have my recovery phone or email
Answer the other questions carefully. Google may ask you to wait while it reviews your request.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Gmail recovery take?
Often just a few minutes. If Google needs to review your request, it can take a few days and they’ll contact you by email.
Can I recover a deleted Gmail account?
If you deleted it recently, you might be able to recover it on the same recovery page. After some time, deleted accounts can’t be restored.
Can I call Google to recover my account?
No. Google doesn’t offer phone support for free Gmail account recovery. Use only the official recovery page and ignore anyone offering to “recover” your account for money.
Summary
Go to g.co/recover, enter your Gmail address and follow the steps. Keep your recovery phone and email up to date so it’s easy next time.
