Short answer
On the X login screen choose Forgot password?, enter your email, phone or username, pick where to receive the code, enter it, and set a new password; if two-factor is on, you'll also need your authenticator, security key or a backup code.
Key takeaways
- X sends reset codes to the email or phone on the account, never by DM.
- Save your two-factor backup code somewhere safe; it's your way in if you lose your phone.
- Emails claiming to be X that ask you to log in through a link are a common phishing trick.
Forgetting a password is the most common way people lose access to X, and the easiest to fix if the email or phone on the account still works.
How do I reset my password?
Use Forgot password? on the login screen and follow the code sent to your email or phone.
- Go to x.com or open the app and tap Sign in.
- Choose Forgot password?
- Enter your email, phone number or username.
- Choose where X should send the code.
- Enter the code, then set a new password and confirm it.
Use a password you haven't used anywhere else. A password manager makes that painless.
What if I have two-factor authentication on?
After the password, X asks for your second factor: authenticator code, security key or backup code.
If you lost your phone, use the one-time backup code you saved when you set up two-factor (find a new one later under Security > Two-factor authentication > Backup codes). Without the second factor or a backup code, you'll need X's help form.
What if I can't access the email or phone?
Try a different identifier first, then use X's account access form.
If your phone number is gone but your email works, choose the email route, and vice versa. If neither works, X's forms page has an option for account access problems. Be ready to provide the username, the email or phone you used to sign up and details about the account.
How do I tell a real reset email from phishing?
Real emails come from an x.com address, don't ask for your password, and match a reset you just requested.
If you didn't request a reset, don't click anything; go to x.com directly and check your account's security settings. Never share codes with anyone, including people claiming to be X support. More in how to secure your X account.
Questions people ask
I didn't get the reset email. What now?
Check spam and promotions folders, make sure you used the address on the account, and wait a few minutes before requesting another. Too many requests can trigger a temporary limit.
Can I reset my password without my email or phone?
Not through the normal flow. Use X's account access help form, which asks for details to prove ownership.
Does resetting my password log out other devices?
X offers to log out other sessions when you change your password. Accept if you think someone else has access.