Updating a user’s email address in WordPress 5.9 is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Whether you’re changing your own email address or updating another user’s account, WordPress allows administrators to manage email settings directly from the dashboard.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to update a user’s email address in WordPress 5.9 step by step.
Why Update a User’s Email Address in WordPress?
There are many reasons you may need to change a user’s email address:
- The user changed email providers
- The old email is no longer accessible
- Account recovery issues
- Improving account security
- Correcting typing mistakes
- Updating team member information
Keeping user email addresses current is important because WordPress uses email for:
- Password resets
- Notifications
- Security alerts
- User communication
How to Update a User’s Email Address in WordPress 5.9
Follow these steps to change a user’s email address safely.
Step 1: Log in to the WordPress Dashboard
Open your WordPress admin area by visiting:
yourwebsite.com/wp-admin
Enter your administrator credentials to continue.
Step 2: Go to Users
From the left-hand menu:
- Click Users
- Select All Users
You’ll now see a list of all registered users on your website.
Step 3: Select the User to Edit
Find the user whose email address you want to update.
Hover over their username and click:
Edit
This opens the user profile settings page.
Step 4: Locate the Email Field
Scroll down until you find the:
Email (required)
field.
Delete the old email address and enter the new one.
Make sure the new email address is entered correctly to avoid login or notification issues.
Step 5: Save the Changes
Scroll to the bottom of the page and click:
Update User
WordPress will save the updated email address immediately.
What Happens After Updating the Email Address?
After changing the email address:
- The user may receive a confirmation email
- Future notifications will go to the new address
- Password reset emails will use the updated email
- Login credentials remain unchanged
Depending on your WordPress settings, the user may need to confirm the new email address before it becomes active.
How Users Can Change Their Own Email Address
Users can also update their own email address without administrator help.
Steps for Users
- Log in to WordPress
- Go to Users > Profile
- Find the Email field
- Enter the new email address
- Click Update Profile
WordPress may send a confirmation email to verify the change.
Common Issues When Changing Email Addresses
Confirmation Email Not Arriving
Sometimes WordPress emails fail to send properly.
Solutions
- Check spam folders
- Use an SMTP plugin
- Verify hosting email settings
Invalid Email Address Error
WordPress only accepts properly formatted email addresses.
Example:
name@example.com
User Cannot Access New Email
Always verify the user has access to the new email before updating it.
Otherwise, they may lose password reset access.
Tips for Managing User Emails in WordPress
Use Unique Email Addresses
Each WordPress account should have its own email address for security and account recovery.
Enable SMTP for Reliable Emails
SMTP plugins improve WordPress email delivery.
Popular options include:
- WP Mail SMTP
- FluentSMTP
- Post SMTP
Keep User Accounts Updated
Regularly review user information to maintain account accuracy and security.
Limit Administrator Access
Only trusted users should have permission to edit other user accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Change Another User’s Email Address?
Yes. Administrators can edit any user account on the website.
Will Changing the Email Affect the Username?
No. The username remains the same unless changed separately.
Does WordPress Require Email Confirmation?
In many cases, yes. WordPress may send a confirmation email to activate the new address.
Can Multiple Users Share the Same Email Address?
By default, WordPress does not allow duplicate email addresses.
What Happens If the Email Change Is Not Confirmed?
The old email address may remain active until confirmation is completed.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to update a user’s email address in WordPress 5.9 is an essential skill for website administrators and users alike. Keeping email information current helps maintain account security, ensures reliable communication, and prevents login issues.
Whether you’re managing a personal blog or a large membership website, regularly reviewing user account details is a smart part of maintaining your WordPress site.