How to Change iPhone Outlook Password

What You’ll Need

Your iPhone with the Mail app (or Outlook app) installed
Access to a web browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.) on your iPhone or computer
Your current Outlook password or access to your Microsoft account recovery options

Step-by-Step

Change your password on Microsoft’s website. Open a browser and go to account.microsoft.com. Sign in with your Outlook email and current password. Go to Security > Change my password. Enter your current password, then your new password twice. Choose something strong but memorable. Click Next to save.
Update the password on your iPhone. After changing it online, your iPhone’s Mail app will likely show a login error. Open Settings > Mail > Accounts. Tap the Outlook account (it may be listed as Exchange or Microsoft Exchange). Tap the account again, then tap Password. Delete the old password and type your new one. Tap Done, then tap Save in the top-right corner.
Force a refresh in the Mail app. Open the Mail app. Pull down from the top of the inbox to refresh. If it still shows an error, close the Mail app completely (swipe up from the app switcher) and reopen it. This forces the app to re-authenticate with the new password.
If you use the Outlook app instead. Open the Outlook app. Tap your profile icon (top-left). Tap the gear icon (Settings). Tap your account email address. Tap Change Password. Enter your new password and tap Save. The app will reconnect automatically.

Common Mistakes

Changing the password in the wrong place. You cannot change your Outlook password from the iPhone’s Settings app. You must do it on Microsoft’s website first. The iPhone only stores the password, it doesn’t change it.
Forgetting to update the password in all apps. If you use Outlook on multiple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows), you need to update the password in each one, or they will keep showing errors.
Using the same password as before. Microsoft may reject a password you’ve used recently. Choose something completely new.
Not checking for two-factor verification. If you have two-step verification enabled, you might need to enter a code sent to your phone or email after changing the password. Keep your phone handy.

Tips

Use a password manager. Since you’ll need to type the password on your iPhone, a password manager (like iCloud Keychain or a third-party app) can store it and autofill it for you.
Enable two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone gets your password, they can’t log in without the code sent to your trusted device.
Test the new password immediately. After updating on your iPhone, send a test email to yourself or check your inbox to confirm the connection works.
If you use the Outlook app, update there too. The Outlook app and the Mail app are separate. If you use both, update both.

Troubleshooting

Mail app keeps asking for password. Go to Settings > Mail > Accounts, tap the account, and delete it completely. Then re-add it by going to Settings > Mail > Accounts > Add Account > Microsoft Exchange. Enter your email and new password. This often fixes persistent errors.
“Cannot Connect to Server” error. Check your internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular). If you’re on Wi-Fi, try turning it off and using cellular data. Also, make sure the date and time on your iPhone are set correctly (Settings > General > Date & Time > Set Automatically).
Password changed but still can’t log in. Wait a few minutes—Microsoft may take a moment to sync the change across their servers. If it still fails, try signing in on a computer to confirm the new password works.
Forgot your current password. Go to account.live.com/password/reset and follow the prompts. You’ll need access to the recovery email or phone number linked to your account. Once you reset it there, update it on your iPhone as described above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Outlook password directly from the iPhone Mail app?

No. The Mail app only stores the password. You must change it on Microsoft’s website first, then update it in the iPhone’s Settings.

Why does my iPhone keep saying the password is incorrect after I changed it?

You likely haven’t updated the password in the Mail app’s settings. Go to Settings > Mail > Accounts, tap the account, and enter the new password.

Will changing my Outlook password affect other apps on my iPhone?

Yes, if those apps use your Outlook account (like Calendar, Contacts, or third-party apps). You’ll need to update the password in each app that uses it.

How often should I change my Outlook password?

Microsoft doesn’t require you to change it regularly, but it’s good practice to change it if you suspect a breach or if you’ve shared it with someone.

What if I have two-factor authentication enabled?

After changing your password, you may be asked to verify your identity with a code sent to your trusted device. Keep your phone nearby during the process.

Can I use the same password for Outlook and my iPhone lock screen?

Yes, but it’s not recommended for security. Use a unique password for your email account.

Sources: Microsoft Support. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.