How to delete your Outlook account

Thinking about deleting your Microsoft Outlook account but aren’t sure how to do it? Well, it can be a bit complicated (and confusing) because Microsoft actually offers two main services under the Outlook name.  

First, there’s Outlook.com, which is like Gmail but Microsoft’s version, and then there’s the Outlook desktop or mobile app, which acts as your email hub, letting you manage all your email accounts, including Outlook.com, in one spot.  

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Deleting your entire Microsoft account, which includes Outlook.com, will erase everything tied to it (like OneDrive, Office 365, and more) while removing your Outlook.com account from the Outlook desktop app will simply delink that account and won’t impact your Microsoft account or delete your Outlook.com email. So, to help you manage your email and stay organised, this guide will walk you through both deleting your Microsoft account and removing your Outlook.com account from the Microsoft Outlook desktop app. 

How to delete your Outlook account

To permanently delete your Outlook account, you’ll need to delete your entire Microsoft account since everything’s interconnected. That means if you’re using other Microsoft services like Skype or Office 365 with this email, you won’t be able to access them in the future. 

If you’re okay with that, here’s how to delete your Outlook account for good: 

1. Head over here and log in with your Microsoft account. Find the option to close your account, then follow the on-screen prompts and enter your password when asked. 

2. You’ll then be redirected to a page that will list down a series of steps to follow carefully to close your account. It’s important to take your time with this part and read through everything. When you’re ready, click ‘Next.’ 

3. Now, on the next page, tick all the boxes confirming you understand the consequences of closing your account. Then, finally click on ‘Mark Account for Closure’ to permanently delete your Microsoft account.  

How to remove your Outlook.com account from the desktop app

On the other hand, if you just want to take your Outlook account off the desktop app, without impacting your whole Microsoft setup, it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:  

1. In your Outlook app, go to ‘File’ and then to ‘Account Settings.’ 

2. Now, select the account you want to remove. Remember, you can’t remove the default account, so either switch to another account or if you only have one account, add or create a new one first and make it the default. 

3. After selecting the account, click on ‘Remove.’ This will delete the account and all its local data. If you see a warning about deleting cached contacts, simply click “Yes” and proceed with the removal. 

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And that’s it! Removing your Outlook.com account from the desktop app or deleting your Microsoft account (should you no longer have use for it) is a great way to ensure your laptop or desktop stays clean and clutter-free at all times.