User Password Expiration Reminder

Configuring a user password expiration reminder prevents last-minute account lockouts and reduces administrative overhead by automatically prompting employees to update their credentials before they expire.

Depending on your organization’s IT infrastructure, this reminder is typically configured using one of two primary environments: Windows Active Directory (On-Premises) or Microsoft 365 (Cloud).

Method 1: Local / On-Premises Windows Active Directory (via Group Policy)

This method displays an interactive popup message to users when they log into their Windows domain-joined computers. 1. Open the Group Policy Editor

Press Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc (for local machines) or gpmc.msc (for domain-wide management), and click OK. 2. Navigate to Security Options

In the left pane, drill down through the following folder structure:Computer Configuration ➔ Windows Settings ➔ Security Settings ➔ Local Policies ➔ Security Options. 3. Locate the Prompt Policy

Scroll down the right pane to find the policy named: Interactive Logon: Prompt user to change password before expiration. 4. Define the Notification Window Double-click the policy to open its properties.

Check the box to enable it (if necessary) and specify the number of days.

Best Practice: Set this value between 5 and 14 days prior to expiration so users have sufficient notice. Click Apply and then OK. Method 2: Microsoft 365 / Entra ID Cloud Environment

For organizations managing users in the cloud, Microsoft 365 handles the expiration policy, and automated workflows are used to send explicit email reminders. Create Password Change Reminders Using Power Automate