Microsoft Rewards Account is Suspended? Here is How to Fix it
Learn how to fix a suspended Microsoft Rewards account with these simple steps and tips for getting your account reinstated.
If your Microsoft Rewards account has recently been suspended, don’t worry—you’re in the right place to learn how to try and get it back.
Many users report issues when they attempt to redeem their Microsoft Rewards points, only to find out that their account has suddenly been suspended. Typically, this happens without any prior warning. You might try to redeem rewards in the morning or the day after earning points, and then get an error message. Shortly after, you discover your account has been banned.
This issue is quite common among Microsoft Rewards users. Often, people encounter an error during the redemption process, and then suddenly find themselves locked out of their accounts.
To help prevent future suspensions, it’s essential to follow the rules outlined in the Microsoft Services Agreement. However, if your account is already suspended, there are a few steps you can take to try and recover it.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through several suggestions that may help you unsuspend your Microsoft Rewards account.
Why Was My Microsoft Rewards Account Suspended?
Microsoft frequently updates the rules for its Rewards program, so it’s important to stay informed about these changes. A good practice is to review the Microsoft Service Agreement every month to check for any updates that could affect your account.
Here are some common reasons from the agreement that may lead to the suspension of a Microsoft Rewards account:
- Using multiple Microsoft Rewards accounts with different email addresses.
- Exceeding the point redemption limit, such as redeeming more than 550,000 points per calendar year.
- Accumulating points or Rewards beyond the allowed limit per person or household.
- Registering multiple accounts with the same phone number.
- Using automated tools like bots, to perform searches.
- Accessing the program through a VPN which may bypass restrictions.
- Involvement in online fraud, such as phishing or account theft.
If you’re wondering, “How do I unsuspend my Microsoft Rewards account?” read on for some methods that may help you recover your account.
How to Unsuspend Your Microsoft Rewards Account
If your Microsoft Rewards account has been suspended you can attempt to fix the problem in a few different ways. How to Get Your Microsoft Rewards Account Unsuspended:
1. Contact Microsoft Rewards Support
Start by reaching out to Microsoft Rewards Support through the official Microsoft Rewards Support page:
- Describe the Issue: Begin by entering an Issue Title that briefly describes the problem.
- Your Details: Enter your first and last name, your email address for responses, and the email address associated with your Microsoft Account.
- Select Your Issue: Under the “What would you like assistance with?” section, choose your issue from the drop-down menu.
- Additional Details: After choosing your time zone, enter any more details about the suspension of your account in the “Please explain further” area.
- Submit: Once all fields are filled in, click Submit to send your request.
Microsoft Support will review your case to determine if the suspension was justified. Keep any emails from them for future reference in case the suspension remains.
Note: Account suspensions can take time to resolve—sometimes up to two months.
2. File an Arbitration Request
If your account is still suspended after contacting support, you can file a Binding Arbitration request as per the Microsoft Services Agreement:
- Review the Agreement: Go to the Microsoft Services Agreement, especially the Microsoft Rewards section, and confirm that you haven’t violated any terms.
- Find the Arbitration Section: If you believe you haven’t broken any rules, go to the Binding Arbitration section.
- Download Forms: Open the “Arbitration and Dispute Resolution” link, download the “Notice of Dispute” form (PDF), fill it out, and mail it to Microsoft.
- Wait for 60 Days: Microsoft has 60 days to respond to your Notice of Dispute. If the issue remains unresolved, download the “Demand for Arbitration” form, fill it out, and mail it to Microsoft.
An impartial panel will review your case. Wait for Microsoft Rewards Support to respond to your arbitration request.
Note: Filing arbitration is free unless you decide to hire an attorney.
3. Turn Off Your VPN
If your account is suspended it might be because you are using a VPN:
- Microsoft may believe that you are attempting to earn rewards from numerous accounts or accessing rewards from unsupported regions if you use VPN.
- To prevent more problems temporarily turn off your VPN when using the Microsoft Rewards website.
- Tech-savvy users may want to consider setting up their VPN to block Bing and Microsoft apps from connecting.
By following these steps, you can find out more about the reasons why your account was suspended and what you can do to try to get it lifted.
Other Steps to Fix Your Suspended Microsoft Rewards Account
If you’ve followed the previous steps and reached out to Microsoft Rewards Support, here are a few additional tips that may help:
- Save All Emails: Keep a record of any emails you receive from the support team by saving them in a separate folder.
- Consider Arbitration: If you don’t receive a satisfactory response, you can file an Arbitration form. Include all saved emails as proof.
- Review the Agreement: Carefully read the Microsoft Services Agreement, especially the section on Microsoft Rewards, to see if any of your actions may have violated their terms.
Other Microsoft services such as Xbox Game Pass, may also have this suspension problem. Microsoft Rewards Support could still be able to assist in certain situations.
Please feel free to leave a comment with any other thoughts or ideas you may have.
