How do I recover my disabled Google account?

Introduction

Your Google account contains the details used for logging into sites, documents and other Google applications. When someone else tries to access your account, Google has specific procedures to verify whether the individual is authorized to log into the account. When the mail server notices suspicious activity or if you violate the Google Terms of Service, your account may be disabled to protect it. If you're in a situation where your account has been disabled, these steps can help you recover access:

Visit the Google Accounts Page

When your Google account is disabled, you can't log into your account or use Google services. Attempting to log into your account redirects you to an error message informing you that your account has been disabled. Sometimes, the Google servers will email you your account is inactive. Start restoring access by visiting myaccount.google.com and entering your Gmail address.

Enter Your Password

Entering your password helps fully identify your Google account. Once you key in the password, a new page loads, displaying a message that your account has been disabled. The new page also shows a link to click for more information on why you can't access your account.

Download Your Data

Google allows you to download your data when you're denied access to your account. Try signing into your account as usual; then, Google displays an option for downloading your data. However, you may be restricted from downloading your data due to violations like valid legal requests, account hijacking and egregious content violations. Contact Google’s customer support with queries if you aren’t allowed to download your data for unclear reasons.

Start Appeal

You can send an appeal if you feel like your account was disabled by mistake. After downloading your data, click the new link to start the appeal process. This prompts Google to investigate what happened to your account by checking your account data. Submitting an appeal permits Google to review your account and gather all necessary information to resolve the issue. You need not worry about your data; the review results will be kept safe and secure.

Provide Details About Your Appeal

The next step allows you to explain why your account has been disabled. Visit the Google Accounts appeal policies page to learn the policies involved and how they are applied. Clearly explain what you were doing with your account before it was disabled, and include other details that you think should be reviewed. Below this new page, there's a section for filling in the reason for your appeal.

Provide an Alternative Email

You won't be able to use your Google account during the review process. You must provide an alternative email address for Google to reach you regarding updates on your appeal request. Submit an active email address and ensure that it's accessible to you.

Submit Appeal

After filling in all the required information and the new email address, click the "Submit Appeal" button. Google immediately starts to review the appeal, and you can expect some feedback in about two business days. Sometimes, the review may take longer, depending on the issue's complexity.

Conclusion

Google's account recovery process helps you regain access to your account when logged out. You can also use the process to retrieve a deleted Google account. Don't get overwhelmed if your Google account is disabled; following the correct steps will help you regain access and continue using Google services.