Can't sign in to Gmail? Fixes that work

Work out which problem you have first: Google will not accept your sign-in, Gmail will not load once you are in, or the app has stopped updating. Each has different fixes.

Updated October 17, 2026 · 2 min read

Problem 1: Google will not accept your sign-in

1. Check Caps Lock and the keyboard language. Passwords are case-sensitive.
2. Make sure you are typing the full address, including @gmail.com.
3. Click Forgot password? or go to accounts.google.com/signin/recovery.
4. Use a phone or computer you have signed in on before, in a place you usually are, such as home. Google trusts familiar devices and locations.
5. Answer what you can. Wrong guesses do not end the process. If one question stumps you, click Try another way.
6. Check the spam folder of your recovery email for a message from Google.

Forgot your Gmail address? Use Forgot email? on the sign-in page. You need your recovery phone or email and the full name on the account.

Problem 2: The verification code does not arrive

• Click Try another way to choose a different method: a prompt on your phone, a backup code, or a code by text or call.
• Check the phone has signal, and wait a minute before asking again.
• If you printed or saved backup codes, use one.
• Got a new phone number? You may need the full account recovery process above.

Watch for scams: Google will not call you and will never ask you for a password or verification code. Anyone who does is not Google.

Problem 3: Gmail will not load in your browser

1. Check the Google Workspace Status Dashboard. If Gmail is down, wait.
2. Update your browser, or try a different one.
3. Open a private or incognito window. If Gmail works there, an extension or stored data is the cause.
4. Turn off browser extensions one at a time.
5. Clear the browser's cache and cookies.
6. Restart your computer and router, or try another network.

Problem 4: The Gmail app is not updating

1. Pull down on the inbox to refresh. Syncing can take a few minutes.
2. Update the Gmail app and restart your phone.
3. On Android, open Gmail Settings, tap your account, and make sure Sync Gmail is ticked.
4. Check your Google storage is not full, and that the phone has free space.
5. Last resort on Android: clear the Gmail app's storage in phone settings. This erases drafts saved only on the phone.

Work or school account?

If your address does not end in @gmail.com, your organization runs the account. Your IT admin can reset your password and fix sign-in rules that you cannot change yourself.

Questions people ask

Why does Google say it could not verify this account belongs to me?

Recovery failed on the details given. Try again later from a device and location you have used before, and give as much accurate information as you can.

How long does Google account recovery take?

Often minutes. If Google needs more time to check, it can take a few days, and changes to recovery details can take up to 7 days to take effect.

Is Gmail down right now?

Check the Google Workspace Status Dashboard at google.com/appsstatus for the current status.

Sending one email to a whole list? Check the addresses first with Veml, which removes bad and risky emails before you hit send. (Veml and EmailNa have the same owner.)