Nintendo Account Recovery: Password, Email and 2-Step

Reset your Nintendo Account password from the sign-in page with your email. Lost 2-step access? Use a backup code or contact Nintendo support.

Forgot password

1. On the Nintendo Account sign-in page, choose Forgot your password?
2. Enter your email or sign-in ID.
3. Follow the link in the email to set a new password.

Forgot email or sign-in ID

On your Switch, open System Settings › Users and look at the linked Nintendo Account; the email may be shown partly. Search your inbox for "Nintendo" receipts to find the address.

2-step verification

Hacked account

• Reset the password straight away.
• Check eShop purchase history.
• Remove linked accounts you do not recognise.
• Turn on 2-step verification.
• Contact Nintendo support if the email was changed.

Old Nintendo Network IDs

Wii U and 3DS used Nintendo Network IDs. Many are linked to a Nintendo Account. Recovery for old IDs is limited now that those services have mostly closed.

Children's accounts

Child accounts are managed by the parent in the Nintendo Account family group. The parent can help reset settings and spending limits.

Switch online play

Your Nintendo Switch Online membership and cloud saves are tied to the Nintendo Account. Recovering the account brings them back on your Switch.

Other platforms: PlayStation recovery.

Email not arriving

Nintendo emails can go to spam or promotions. Add Nintendo to your contacts, wait a few minutes, and request only one new link. If you never receive emails, the account may use another address; check your Switch user settings.

Selling a Switch

Before selling, deregister the Switch as your primary console in the eShop and remove your user.

Nintendo support may ask for your Switch serial number and recent purchase details to confirm ownership, so keep those handy when you contact them.

Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 uses the same Nintendo Account as the original Switch. When you move to a new console, signing in with the recovered account brings over your eShop purchases and, with Nintendo Switch Online, your cloud saves. Keep your account email current so you can transfer easily.

FAQ

How do I recover my Nintendo Account?

Use Forgot your password? on the sign-in page.

What if I lost my Nintendo 2-step device?

Use a backup code or contact Nintendo support.

Are Switch cloud saves tied to my Nintendo Account?

Yes, with Switch Online.

Related: PlayStation recovery · authenticator apps · Xbox two-step verification.