Microsoft 365 Access Denied? Why You Can’t Sign into Microsoft 365 Apps (and How to Fix It)

Updated August 2025. Originally published September 2022.

 

Microsoft 365 is the backbone of modern work for over one billion users worldwide. From Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, Outlook, and SharePoint, these cloud-based tools keep businesses connected and productive. But when you’re suddenly denied Microsoft 365 access or access/performance is unstable, frustration can spike fast — especially when deadlines are looming.  

The truth is, even though Microsoft 365 replaces old-school processes with powerful apps, it’s not immune to hiccups. Many sign-in issues — especially “Access Denied” messages or “Can’t sign into Microsoft 365” errors — often have simple fixes. In fact, one of the most common culprits is an expired password.   

The good news? In many cases, you can be back up and running in just a few minutes with a quick password reset or login confirmation. Below, we’ll walk you through exactly how to reset your Microsoft 365 password — plus share solutions for other common Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) access errors.

How to Reset your Microsoft 365 Password

If you’ve been locked out due to a password issue, here’s how to securely reset Microsoft 365 and regain access to your cloud-based apps:  

Step 1: Go to the Microsoft 365 Sign-in Page

Visit https://portal.office.com and click Can’t access your account? or Forgot my password on the login screen. 

Step 2: Choose the Correct Account Type:

Select Work or school account if your email address is provided by your organization. 

Step 3: Enter Your Account Information:

Type in your Microsoft 365 email address and the characters shown on the screen to verify you’re not a robot. 

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

Choose a verification method (e.g., security code sent via email, text message, or Microsoft Authenticator). Enter the code when prompted. 

Step 5: Create a New Password

Enter a strong, unique password that meets your organization’s security requirements. Confirm the password and save your changes. 

For expert password tips, check out our guide on securing your Microsoft 365 tenancy. 

Step 6: Sign In with Your New Password

Return to https://portal.office.com and sign in using your updated credentials. If prompted, update your password on other devices where your account is configured. 

Tip: If your organization uses Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and you can’t complete verification, you’ll need to contact your IT help desk, your managed IT services provider or Microsoft 365 administrator for assistance. 

Final step: Don’t forget to update your new password across all devices to avoid repeat lockouts.  

Other Common Microsoft 365 Access Errors (And How to Fix Them)

Resetting your password solves many sign-in issues, but sometimes the problem runs deeper. Here are other common errors — and how to get past them: 

Access Denied in Microsoft Word, Outlook, or PowerPoint  

If you see “Access Denied – Contact Your Administrator” in Microsoft Word, Outlook, or PowerPoint, if often means your permissions are restricted — especially for SharePoint or OneDrive files.   

Here’s what to try: 

1. 1. Make sure you’re logged into the correct Microsoft 365 account. 

2. 2. Check file or folder permissions. 

3. 3. Try opening the document through office.com instead of the desktop app. 

4. 4. Contact the document owner or the Sharepoint site administrator to review permissions which may prevent access. 

If the issue persists, it’s time to reach out to your IT team or your managed IT services provider for a quick permissions check. 

Where Is My Workspace in Power BI or Microsoft 365?

Lost your workspace in Power BI? Don’t panic — it’s usually just a case of being signed into the wrong account or not having the right permissions. 

Here’s how to get back on track: 

1. 1. Double-check which account you’re logged into. 

2. 2. Use the app switcher in the upper-left corner to navigate back to your dashboard. 

3. 3. Still can’t find it? Contact your administrator to confirm your access and clear any roadblocks. 

“A Report Has Already Been Published with This Name” Error

In Power BI, this error usually means you’re trying to overwrite a file that’s already synced from SharePoint or OneDrive. 

To fix it: 

• • Go directly to the SharePoint location and replace the .PBIX file there. 

• • Avoid re-publishing from Power BI Desktop to prevent syncing conflicts. 

Need more automation tips? Check out our Power Automate and SharePoint Get Items guide for workflow solutions. 

Looking to Boost Work Productivity or Solve a Tech Headache?

If you’ve tried the above fixes but are still stuck, don’t let tech troubles slow you down. A trusted managed IT service provider can troubleshoot quickly, keep your systems running smoothly, and help you get the most out of your Microsoft 365 tools. 

At IronEdge Group, we offer: 

• • Comprehensive Microsoft 365 support. 

• • Cloud-based services and optimization. 

• • Real-time troubleshooting. 

• • Strategic guidance for cloud-based services. 

With the right support, you can stay focused on your business — not your login screen. 

Have a tech question or want to boost productivity? 

Our IT specialists are ready to help. Chat with an expert today and get back to doing your best work.