How to block senders in Outlook

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for blocking senders in Outlook.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To block senders in Outlook, you can use the 'Block Sender' feature directly from an email or manage blocked senders through the settings. This prevents unwanted emails from reaching your inbox and helps maintain a clean email environment.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin blocking senders in Outlook, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A valid Microsoft Outlook account (Office 365, Outlook.com, or Outlook desktop application).
  • •Internet connection for Outlook online features.
  • •Proper permissions to modify settings in your Outlook account.
  • •Backup important emails if necessary, especially if you plan to delete or modify existing rules.

Method 1: Block Sender from an Email

This method is straightforward and useful when you want to block a sender directly from an email you received.
  • •Step 1: Open Outlook and navigate to your Inbox.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on the email from the sender you wish to block.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Junk' from the context menu, then click on 'Block Sender'.
  • •Step 4: A confirmation message will appear stating that the sender has been blocked. Click 'OK' to confirm.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, check your Junk Email folder for any future emails from that sender.

For Windows 11

In Windows 11, the interface is slightly updated but follows the same steps.
  • •Step 1: Open Outlook from the Start menu or taskbar.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on the email from the sender you want to block.
  • •Step 3: Choose 'Junk' and then 'Block Sender' from the dropdown.

For Windows 10

The steps are similar in Windows 10, with minor interface differences.
  • •Step 1: Launch Outlook from the Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on the unwanted email.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Junk' and then 'Block Sender' from the options.

Method 2: Manage Blocked Senders in Settings

This method allows you to manage your blocked senders list directly through Outlook settings, which is useful for reviewing or unblocking senders.
  • •Step 1: Open Outlook and click on the 'File' tab in the top left corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Options' from the menu.
  • •Step 3: In the Outlook Options window, click on 'Mail' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Scroll down to the 'Junk Email' section and click on the 'Blocked Senders List' button.
  • •Step 5: Here, you can add new email addresses to block by clicking 'Add', or remove existing ones by selecting them and clicking 'Remove'.
  • •Step 6: Click 'OK' to save your changes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while blocking senders, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'The sender is not blocked' - Solution: Ensure you are selecting the correct email and that it is not already in your blocked list.
  • •Issue: Blocked emails still appear in Inbox - Fix: Check if the sender is in your 'Blocked Senders List' and ensure that your Junk Email filter is set to 'Low' or 'High'.
  • •Problem: Unable to access settings - Workaround: Restart Outlook or check your permissions if using a corporate account.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your email management with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + J - This opens the Junk Email options quickly.
  • •Command line: Use PowerShell to automate blocking multiple senders if you are an advanced user.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Rules' to create more complex filtering options for managing unwanted emails.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal email management, regularly review your blocked senders list and adjust your Junk Email settings as needed.