Why Every Account Needs a Recovery Email

A recovery email gets you back into an account when your phone is lost, your number changes or codes stop. Add one to every account you value.

What it does

• Receives reset links and codes when your phone is not available.
• Gets alerts about new sign-ins.
• Proves ownership during account recovery.

Choosing one

• Use an email you will keep for years.
• Protect it with two-step verification.
• Do not use an address that depends on the same phone number.

Where to add it

Especially important if you used a temporary number to sign up.

Check it once a year

Recovery details go out of date. Once a year, check each important account still lists an email and phone you control, and update anything old.

FAQ

Why do I need a recovery email?

To get back in if you lose your phone or number.

Can I use the same recovery email everywhere?

Yes, if it is well protected.

Is a recovery email enough on its own?

Add two-step verification too.

Related: passkeys · change your Google number · codes on a new phone.