How to create a Google Account (you may already have one)

One Google Account gives you Chrome synchronisation, Google Password Manager and Google Authenticator backup on all your devices.

Do you already have one?

If you have ever signed in to Gmail, Google Maps or YouTube, you already have a Google Account. An Android phone is usually set up with one too. Use that account; you do not need a second one.

Why one good account matters

Your passwords, bookmarks and authenticator codes are kept in your account, so a new phone or computer is ready in minutes.
Google can warn you about unusual sign-ins and leaked passwords.
With a recovery phone and email address, you can get back into your account if you forget your password.

Create the account

Go to the Google sign-in page and click Create account.
Choose whether the account is for your personal use or to manage a business.
Enter your name, then your birthday and gender.
Choose a new Gmail address, or keep your own address: choose Use your existing email, enter it, and type the code Google sends to that address.
Choose a password: long and used nowhere else. A password manager can make and keep it for you.
Adding and checking a phone number is optional, but it helps you get back into your account later.
Read and accept the terms.

Minimum age: 13 in most countries, but 15 in Vietnam and 16 in the Netherlands.

Straight afterwards: make it secure

Run the Security Checkup.
Add a recovery phone number and a recovery email address.
Turn on 2-Step Verification: in your Google Account go to Security & sign-in and choose Turn on 2-Step Verification. See our guide How to use Google Authenticator.
Consider a passkey: you then sign in with your phone's fingerprint, face or PIN instead of a password.
Make sure your phone and computer have a screen lock.

Lost or stolen device?

If you are a client of ours and your phone or computer has crashed, or was lost or stolen, let us know as soon as possible. Write to us using the contact details on our contact page, or use the direct email address or telephone number we gave you (we do not publish these). We can lock your account with us straight away, reset your login password, and help you set everything up again.

Sources (checked 20 October 2026)