The method for closing an Outlook account depends on what you mean by "close." It could mean removing an account from the Outlook application or completely deleting a Microsoft account associated with Outlook. The instructions below address removing an account from the Outlook Application. If you mean deleting your entire Microsoft Account, please note that you will lose access to all Microsoft services linked to that account.
Removing an Account from the Outlook Application
These steps will remove an email account from the Outlook application on your computer or device:
- Access Account Settings: In Outlook, navigate to Account Settings and then select Account Settings again.
- Select and Remove: Choose the specific account you wish to remove. Then, click the Remove button.
- Confirmation: A warning message will appear, indicating that all offline cached content for this account will be deleted. Confirm your decision to proceed.
Important Considerations:
- Data Loss: When you remove an account, any data stored offline within the Outlook application for that account will be deleted. Ensure you have backed up any important information before proceeding.
- Account Still Active: Removing an account from Outlook does not delete the actual email account itself. You are simply disconnecting it from the Outlook application. You can still access the account through a web browser or another email client.
- Deleting a Microsoft Account: If you want to completely delete your Microsoft account (which includes your Outlook.com email address), you will need to follow a different process through your Microsoft account settings on the web. Deleting your Microsoft account is permanent and will affect all Microsoft services tied to that account (OneDrive, Xbox Live, etc.).
