Changing Your Email Address on Amazon: A Definitive Guide

So, you’re looking to change the email address associated with your Amazon account? Fear not, intrepid shopper! It’s a straightforward process, though a few nuances deserve attention. Here’s a direct answer: you can change your email address through the Amazon website or the Amazon mobile app by navigating to your account settings, specifically the login & security section, and then editing your email address. You’ll likely be asked to verify the change through a one-time password sent to your old email or phone number. Now, let’s dive into the details.

Accessing Your Account Settings

The first step is, unsurprisingly, accessing your account settings. Think of it as entering the control room of your Amazon empire.

On the Amazon Website:

1. Log in to your Amazon account on a web browser (desktop or mobile).
2. Hover over “Account & Lists” in the top right corner of the screen.
3. From the dropdown menu, click “Account.”
4. You’ll be presented with a page displaying various account-related options. Locate the “Login & Security” tile and click on it.

On the Amazon Mobile App:

1. Open the Amazon app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) located in the bottom right corner (or top left on some devices).
3. Tap on “Account.”
4. Scroll down to the “Login & Security” section and tap it.

Changing Your Email Address

Now that you’ve found the “Login & Security” section, the actual changing process begins.

1. Within the “Login & Security” section, you’ll see a list of options including “Name,” “Email,” “Mobile Phone Number,” and “Password.”
2. Next to “Email,” you’ll see an “Edit” button. Click or tap this button.
3. You’ll be prompted to enter your new email address. Double-check for typos; a mistyped email address can cause significant headaches.
4. Amazon will likely ask you to verify your identity. This typically involves receiving a One-Time Password (OTP) via your current email address or phone number registered to the account. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter the OTP.
5. Once verified, your email address will be updated. Make a note of your new email address and password for future logins.

Important Considerations

While the process itself is simple, a few factors are worth keeping in mind to ensure a smooth transition:

• Email Address Uniqueness: The new email address cannot already be associated with another Amazon account. Amazon requires each account to have a unique email address. If the address is in use, you’ll need to use a different one or close the existing account using that address.
• Verification is Key: Amazon takes security seriously. Be prepared to verify your identity through your old email or phone number. If you no longer have access to either of these, the process becomes more complicated, potentially requiring direct contact with Amazon customer service.
• Update Everywhere: After changing your email address on Amazon, remember to update it on any other services or devices where you use your Amazon account. This includes Kindle devices, Fire TV devices, and any third-party apps that use Amazon Login.
• Password Security: Consider changing your password at the same time. It’s always a good practice to maintain strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts.
• Be Mindful of Phishing: Changing your email address can sometimes trigger phishing attempts. Be wary of any suspicious emails asking for your Amazon account information after you change your email address. Always access your Amazon account directly through the official website or app, not through links in emails.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common questions related to changing your email address on Amazon.

1. Can I change my email address without access to my old email?

Yes, but it’s more complex. You’ll need to contact Amazon customer service and prove your identity. They’ll likely ask for information like previous order details, billing addresses, and payment methods. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy process.

2. How long does it take for the email address to be updated?

The change is usually instantaneous. Once you’ve verified the change, your new email address should be active immediately. However, it may take a few minutes for the changes to propagate across all Amazon services.

3. What if I accidentally mistyped my new email address?

If you mistyped your email address, you’ll need to repeat the change process immediately. The sooner you correct the error, the less likely you are to encounter issues.

4. Will changing my email address affect my Amazon Prime membership?

No, changing your email address will not affect your Amazon Prime membership, as long as the new email address is not already tied to a different Amazon Prime account. Your membership benefits will remain intact.

5. Can I use a disposable email address to register an Amazon account?

While technically possible, it’s strongly discouraged. Disposable email addresses are often temporary and may expire, making it difficult to recover your account if you forget your password or need to verify your identity. Use a permanent email address that you control.

6. I forgot my password, and I no longer have access to my old email. Can I still change my email address?

This is a challenging situation. You’ll need to go through the account recovery process first. Typically, you can do this by clicking “Forgot your password?” on the login page. Amazon will guide you through the steps to verify your identity and reset your password. Once you have access to your account, you can change the email address. If the automated process fails, contact customer service.

7. Will my Kindle books be affected if I change my email address?

No, your Kindle books will not be affected. As long as you use the same Amazon account to log in to your Kindle device or app, your purchased content will remain available.

8. Will my order history be deleted when I change my email address?

No, your order history will not be deleted. Your order history is tied to your Amazon account, not specifically to your email address.

9. What if I receive an email asking me to verify my email change after I’ve already done it?

Be cautious. This could be a phishing attempt. Always access your Amazon account directly through the official website or app and verify the change in the “Login & Security” section. Do not click on any links in suspicious emails. Report the email to Amazon.

10. Can I change the email address back to my old one if I change my mind?

Yes, you can change your email address as many times as you need, provided the new email address is not already associated with another Amazon account. Simply repeat the process outlined above.

11. I’m having trouble changing my email address. What should I do?

If you encounter persistent issues, contact Amazon customer service directly. They can provide personalized assistance and troubleshoot any technical problems you may be experiencing. Be prepared to provide them with information to verify your identity.

12. Does changing my email on Amazon affect my other Amazon services like AWS?

Generally, no. Changing your email on the main Amazon retail site does not automatically change it on Amazon Web Services (AWS) or other separate Amazon services that might require a distinct account. You would need to update the email address separately within each service’s specific settings. Always confirm the details separately for each service.

Changing your email address on Amazon is a simple procedure when done carefully. By following these steps and keeping the FAQs in mind, you can ensure a smooth and secure transition. Happy shopping!