Where to Find Your PIN Number When You've Forgotten It

Check your device's settings first

Your PIN is usually stored in your device's security settings, not written down anywhere you can retrieve it. If you've forgotten it, the path depends on what device you're securing — a phone, computer, or physical lock.

For a smartphone, go to Settings, then Security or Lock Screen (the exact path varies by Android version or iPhone model). You won't see your current PIN displayed there for security reasons, but you'll find the option to change it. Changing your PIN requires you to enter your current one first, so this route only works if you remember it.

For a Windows computer, open Settings, then Accounts, then Sign-in options. You'll see your PIN listed under "Windows Hello PIN" if you've set one. Again, you can change it, but you'll need to verify your current PIN or your password to do so.

Key Takeaways

• If you remember your PIN but need to change it, go to your device's security settings and select the option to update your PIN.
• If you've completely forgotten your PIN, you'll need to verify your identity using a backup method like a password, recovery email, or phone number.
• For phones, you may need to enter your Google account password (Android) or Apple ID (iPhone) to reset your PIN.
• For computers, you can use your Windows password or a recovery key to regain access and set a new PIN.
• Physical locks and bank PINs require contacting the manufacturer or institution directly, as they don't store retrievable copies.

Reset your PIN using your backup authentication method

When you've completely forgotten your PIN, your device will ask you to prove you own the account. This is the security working as intended — a PIN you can't remember is less useful than a password you wrote down somewhere safe.

On an Android phone, you'll be asked for your Google account password after several wrong PIN attempts. On an iPhone, you'll need your Apple ID and password. On a Windows computer, you can use your Microsoft account password or a recovery key if you saved one when you first set up the PIN.

The recovery key is the most reliable backup. If you set up Windows Hello PIN, Windows should have offered you a recovery key to save or print. If you saved it, you can use it to reset your PIN without needing to remember your password. Look for it in your email, your OneDrive, or a file you saved to a USB drive.

Contact the manufacturer if you're locked out completely

If you can't remember your backup password or recovery key either, you've locked yourself out of your own device. This is rare but happens. At this point, the manufacturer's support team is your only option.

For iPhones, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store with proof of purchase. For Android phones, contact your phone's manufacturer (Samsung, Google, etc.) with proof of purchase. For Windows computers, you can use another device to visit Microsoft's account recovery page, or contact Microsoft Support.

Expect this process to take several days and require proof that you own the device. Manufacturers do this to prevent theft — if someone stole your phone, you wouldn't want them resetting your PIN and keeping it.

Bank PINs and physical lock PINs work differently

If you've forgotten a PIN for your bank account or a physical lock (like a safe or padlock), you can't reset it through settings because these systems don't store your PIN in a way you can access.

For a bank PIN, call your bank's customer service line. You'll verify your identity using your account number, Social Security number, or other information from your account. They can reset your PIN over the phone or send you a link to reset it online. Bring your debit card or ID to a branch if you prefer to do it in person.

For a physical lock, contact the manufacturer with proof of purchase. Some locks have a master override or a reset process, but it varies widely. If you've lost the documentation, the manufacturer's customer service can walk you through it. If the lock is very old or the manufacturer is out of business, a locksmith may be your only option.

Prevent this by storing your PIN securely

Once you've reset your PIN, write it down somewhere that's not your phone or computer. A physical notebook kept in a safe place, a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password, or a sealed envelope in a drawer all work better than storing it in a Notes app on the same device you're trying to unlock.

Password managers are the most practical option because they encrypt your PIN and you only need to remember one master password. If you use one, you can look up your PIN whenever you need it without having to reset it.

Avoid writing your PIN on a sticky note on your monitor or storing it in an unencrypted file on your desktop. The point of a PIN is that it's something only you know — if someone with physical access to your space can find it, it's not doing its job.

Know the difference between a PIN and a password

A PIN is usually four to six digits and is meant to be something you memorize and type quickly. A password is longer and can include letters, numbers, and symbols. They serve different purposes on the same device.

Your phone might have both a PIN and a password. The PIN unlocks the device quickly; the password is for your account (Google, Apple, Microsoft). Your computer might have a PIN for Windows Hello and a separate password for your Microsoft account. They're not the same thing, and resetting one doesn't reset the other.

When you're looking for a forgotten PIN, make sure you know which one you're looking for. If you've forgotten your account password instead, the process is similar but the recovery steps are different — you'll use a recovery email or phone number instead of a device PIN reset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my current PIN without resetting it?

No. For security reasons, devices don't display your current PIN in settings. If you need to know it, you'll have to reset it to a new one you choose. This is intentional — it prevents someone who briefly accesses your settings from stealing your PIN.

What if I forgot my PIN and my backup password too?

Contact the device manufacturer with proof of purchase. They can verify you own the device and help you regain access. This process takes longer than a normal reset because they need to confirm you're not a thief. Bring your receipt, warranty card, or original purchase email.

Is my PIN stored somewhere I can retrieve it?

No. Your device stores an encrypted version of your PIN, not the PIN itself. This is why you can't retrieve it — only reset it. If you need to remember it, write it down in a password manager or physical notebook instead.

Can I use the same PIN for my phone and my bank?

You can, but it's not recommended. If someone learns your phone PIN, they shouldn't also have access to your bank account. Use different PINs for different accounts, and store them in a password manager so you don't have to memorize them all.

What's the difference between a PIN and biometric security like fingerprint?

A PIN is a number you type; biometric security uses your fingerprint, face, or iris. Most devices let you use both. Biometric is faster for daily use, but a PIN is your backup if your fingerprint isn't recognized or your face is covered. You need both for full security.