How do I delete my Hotmail account?

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Summary: Delete your MSN Hotmail account with these step-by-step instructions. Deleting your MSN Hotmail account isn't neccessary, but it's easy to do.

I've stopped using my MSN Hotmail account and I just want to get rid of it completely. How do I close it out?

In the past I've said "You don't. Just stop using it, stop logging in to it."

This will actually work. I mean, really ... if you're not looking at it, why would you care if it still existed or not?

Microsoft's own Knowledgebase article MSN Hotmail Top Issues and Support Information says that as well: "To close a Hotmail account, stop using it.".

Apparently that's not enough for many folks. OK, ok...

Follow these steps to delete your Hotmail account:

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1. Click Help on any Hotmail page (usually top right-hand corner).

2. Type Close Account in the keyword search section of the Help screen.

3. Click the Close Your Account link within the Help screen.

4. Click the go to the Close Account link that is highlighted in blue.

5. Read the instructions. When you are satisfied that you understand the terms associated with an account closure, click Close Account.

One note: if you're closing your account because you feel someone's abusing it, please be aware that some time after you close your account someone else could open a new one using your old account name and pretend to be you.

Personally, I recommend just stop using it because that is the simplest thing to do. However, in the interest of keeping your reputation safe, I'd also recommend that you do check in on it every so often to keep it active just to make sure no one else takes it. I believe the same approach is best for most all of the free email services.

Related:

• Ask Leo! - I've lost my Hotmail password, can you help get it back?

• Ask Leo! - Why can't I access HotMail?

• Ask Leo! - How do I contact Hotmail Customer Service?

• Ask Dave Taylor - How do I cancel my America Online (AOL) account?

Article 438 | Posted March 7, 2005