Forgot the master password for a password manager

Symptoms

• Master password rejected repeatedly
• No memory of ever writing it down
• App or extension shows locked with no obvious reset option
• Recovery key or emergency kit missing

Likely causes

• CommonSimply forgotten passwordMaster passwords are used less often than regular ones and are easy to forget over time.
• CommonRecovery key never saved or lostMost password managers generate a one-time recovery key at setup that must be stored separately.
• PossibleBiometric unlock relied on, password never memorizedUsing fingerprint or face unlock daily can mean the underlying password was never reinforced in memory.

What to do

1. Check any physical or digital location where you might have saved the recovery key, such as a printed setup sheet or another password manager.
2. Try the password manager's account recovery process, which may involve an emergency kit, secret key, or trusted contact.
3. Check if biometric unlock is still active on a device that's already logged in, which could let you view or reset the password from inside the app.
4. If the service has zero-knowledge encryption, understand that support usually cannot recover the master password for you at all.
5. If recovery truly isn't possible, you may need to reset the account, which erases stored data, and re-add your passwords manually.
6. Going forward, reset all your important account passwords since you're starting fresh.
7. Store the new master password and recovery key somewhere durable and separate from the device itself.

When to call a pro

Most reputable password managers cannot bypass a lost master password due to encryption design; their support team can only confirm this and guide account reset.

Safety