How to Fix "Check the Instructions That Came With Your Code" Xbox Error
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If you just bought an Xbox Game Pass code and got the error "Check the instructions that came with your code. You might need to redeem it on a different web page or device, or you may be ineligible to redeem this code" — don't panic. This is one of the most common issues with Xbox Game Pass trial keys, and it has a simple fix.
Why This Error Happens
This error almost always means one thing: you purchased a Trial version key, and your Xbox/Microsoft account has already had a subscription before.
Trial keys (often labeled as "Trial," "Starter," or "New Account Only") are designed exclusively for brand new Microsoft accounts that have never had any Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, or Game Pass Ultimate subscription — not even a free trial. If your account has ever had any of these subscriptions in the past, the trial key will not work on it. Microsoft's system checks your account history and blocks the redemption.
Follow these steps to redeem your code
- Redeem on the correct page. Go to the official Microsoft redemption page at https://redeem.microsoft.com/ Do NOT try to redeem through the Xbox console or Xbox app — use the web page directly.
- Check your subscription history. Go to https://account.microsoft.com/services and sign in. Look under Services & subscriptions. If you see ANY past or current subscription (Game Pass, Xbox Live Gold, Game Pass Ultimate, even an expired free trial) — that's why the code won't work.
- Create a new Microsoft account. Go to https://signup.live.com and create a brand new account with a different email address. Make sure this account has zero subscription history.
- Redeem your code. Log in with your new account at https://redeem.microsoft.com and enter your code. It should work!
How to Avoid This in the Future
Before buying a Game Pass key, always check the product listing carefully. If it says any of the following, it's a trial key that requires a new account:
"Trial" — "Starter'' — "New accounts only" — "First-time subscribers"
If you want a key that works on any account (even one that's had subscriptions before), look for listings labeled as "Standard" or "Renewal" instead. These cost more but work on existing accounts.
Still Not Working?
If you've tried a new account and still get the error, try these extra steps: make sure the new account has absolutely zero subscription history, try using a different browser or incognito/private mode, clear your cookies before logging in, or contact the seller for a replacement if the key itself is faulty.
Got more questions about game key activation? Check out our other guides or ask a question on our support page.
Watch the Tutorial
How to Fix "Check the Instructions" Xbox Game Pass Error
Fix the Xbox Game Pass "Check the instructions that came with your code" error. Trial keys only work on new Microsoft accounts — this video shows you how to fix it step by step.
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