Accidentally sent an email in Outlook and want to take it back? Outlook offers a Recall Email feature that allows you to retrieve or replace sent emails under certain conditions. Here’s a straightforward guide to using this feature effectively.
Requirements for Using Outlook Recall Email
- Both sender and recipient must be using Microsoft Exchange or Microsoft 365 accounts within the same organization
- The recipient must not have opened the email yet
- Feature works only in the Outlook desktop app (not in web or mobile versions)
How to Recall an Email in Outlook
- Open Sent Items Folder Go to the Sent Items folder and double-click the email you wish to recall.
- Access Recall Option Click File → Info → Message Resend and Recall → Recall This Message.
- Choose Recall Option Select one of the following:
- Delete unread copies of this message
- Delete unread copies and replace with a new message
Optionally, check Tell me if recall succeeds or fails for each recipient.
- Confirm Click OK. If replacing the message, edit it and resend.
Check Recall Status
Outlook will notify you if the recall succeeded or failed based on whether the recipient has read the email.
Limitations of Outlook Recall
- Does not work for external recipients: Only valid within your organization’s Microsoft Exchange server
- Unread emails only: Recall fails if the email has been opened
- Recipient’s client compatibility: Works best if recipient uses Outlook desktop app
Alternatives to Recall
Send a Follow-Up Email: Quickly clarify or correct the message
Delay Delivery of Emails: Set a rule to delay sending by a few minutes Go to File → Manage Rules & Alerts → New Rule → Defer delivery by X minutes
FAQs About Outlook Recall Email
- Can I recall an email in Outlook Web or Mobile? No, the feature is only available in the Outlook desktop version.
- Will the recipient be notified of the recall attempt? Yes, they will receive a notification.
- What happens if the email has been read? The recall will fail if the recipient has already opened the email.
- Does the recall remove attachments? Yes, if successful, it removes the email and its attachments.
- How long do I have to recall an email? No specific time limit, but it must be unread.
Outlook’s Recall Email feature can save you from potential mishaps if used correctly. Understanding its limitations and how to use it ensures better control over your sent messages.
