Your Gmail account is probably the key to your Android phone, YouTube, Google Photos and many other accounts. Here is how to get back in.

Forgot your password

  1. Go to the Gmail or Google sign-in page and enter your email.
  2. Choose Forgot password?
  3. Follow the prompts: Google may send a code to your recovery phone or email, or ask you to confirm on a phone where you are signed in.
  4. Create a new, strong password.

Forgot your email address

On the sign-in page choose Forgot email?, enter your recovery phone or email and your name, and Google shows the matching accounts.

Improve your chances

  • Use a phone or computer you have signed in on before.
  • Try from your usual location and Wi-Fi.
  • Answer every question; if unsure, give your best guess rather than skipping.
  • Use the same email or phone you used when creating the account.

If Google cannot verify you straight away

Google may ask you to wait while it checks. Its 2-Step Verification help says recovery can take up to 3 to 5 business days. Do not keep starting new attempts.

Hacked, not just forgotten?

If someone changed your password or recovery details, follow Google’s compromised-account steps. See how to secure your Google account.

Prevent it

  • Add a recovery phone and email.
  • Turn on 2-Step Verification and save backup codes.
  • Use a password manager.
Google does not offer phone support to recover personal Gmail accounts. Ignore anyone who calls or messages offering to recover your account for a fee.

This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.

Common questions

Where do I recover my Gmail account?

Use Google’s account recovery page: from the Gmail sign-in screen, choose Forgot password? or Forgot email?

I no longer have my recovery phone number. Can I still recover it?

Possibly. Answer the recovery questions as accurately as you can, from a device and location you normally use. Google may take a few days to verify.

Can Google customer service recover my account by phone?

Google does not recover consumer accounts over the phone. Anyone who calls offering to recover your account is a scammer.

How do I stop this happening again?

Add a recovery phone and email, save backup codes, and turn on 2-Step Verification.

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