How to Recover Your LinkedIn Account Without Access to Email or Phone Number

Losing access to both your registered email and your recovery phone number can feel like a permanent lockout from your professional network. However, the LinkedIn web application has a specific "Identity Verification" protocol designed for this exact scenario. While standard password resets won't work, you can still prove ownership of your profile through official documentation.

Follow these steps to initiate the manual recovery process.

1. Trigger the "Identity Verification" Workflow

Since you cannot receive a security code, you must bypass the standard login screen to reach the manual review form.

1. Go to the LinkedIn Login Page.
2. Click on Forgot password?
3. Enter your email address or phone number associated with the account.
4. When prompted to receive a code via email/SMS, look for and click the link that says "Verify your identity" or "I don't have access to this email/phone."

2. Provide a New Contact Email

To proceed, LinkedIn needs a way to communicate with you that is not tied to your locked account.

• You will be prompted to enter a new, accessible email address.
• LinkedIn will send a verification code to this new email. Enter the code to move to the next stage.
• Note: Do not use an email address that is already associated with another LinkedIn account.

3. Submit Government-Issued Identification

To ensure security and prevent identity theft, LinkedIn requires a scan or photo of an official ID. This is processed through a secure third-party service (often Persona or Onfido).

• Accepted Documents: Passport, Driver’s License, or National ID card.
• The Process: You will likely be asked to take a photo of the ID and a "selfie" to match your face to the document.
• Privacy Note: LinkedIn states that they delete these images after verification is complete to protect user privacy.

4. Wait for Manual Review

Unlike automated resets, this process involves a human review by the LinkedIn Trust & Safety team.

• The review process typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.
• Once approved, you will receive a link at your new email address to reset your password and update your primary login credentials.

5. Common Obstacles and Tips

If your request is denied, it is usually due to one of the following reasons:

1. Name Mismatch: If your LinkedIn profile uses a nickname (e.g., "Tech Guru") rather than your legal name, the ID verification will likely fail. You may need to contact LinkedIn Support via Twitter/X (@LinkedInHelp) to explain the discrepancy.
2. Blurry Photos: Ensure the ID photo is taken in bright, natural light with no glare on the plastic surface.
3. Outdated ID: Ensure your government ID has not expired.

6. Preventive Steps for the Future

Once you regain access, take these steps to ensure you are never locked out again:

• Add a Secondary Email: Go to Settings > Sign in & Security and add a personal "backup" email.
• Enable Two-Step Verification: This allows you to generate recovery codes that can be used if you lose your phone.
• Download a Data Archive: Periodically request a copy of your data so you have a record of your connections even if the account is lost.

Conclusion

Recovering a LinkedIn account without email or phone access is a rigorous process, but it is possible through Identity Verification. By providing a valid ID and a new contact point, you can bypass the automated security wall. If you encounter issues, reaching out to official support channels on social media is the best secondary option to get your case escalated.