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Control Outlook Alerts When App is Closed

Richard
Written by
Richard
Feb 11, 2024 Updated Jul 13, 2026 2 min read
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Controlling Outlook alerts when the app is closed lets you decide if you still see new email notifications or meeting reminders even when Outlook isn’t running.

The new Outlook for Windows is a redesigned version of Microsoft’s email and calendar tool. It provides a simpler interface and updated ways to handle your messages and schedule.

This version lets you choose whether notifications appear for new emails or upcoming appointments when Outlook is shut down.

You can get these alerts when Outlook is closed to make sure you don’t miss important messages or meetings. Turning them off helps reduce distractions and frees up computer resources.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Outlook, click the Settings gear, select General, then Notifications. Find “Notifications in Outlook” and check “Send notifications when Outlook is closed” to enable alerts. Uncheck it to disable them.

Turn “Send notifications when Outlook is closed” on or off

You can choose whether Outlook shows you alerts for new emails even when the application isn’t open. This setting helps you decide if you want to get notified about new messages when Outlook is closed, so you can stay informed or have fewer distractions.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Outlook application by clicking on its icon in the Start menu or searching for it in the taskbar search box.

Open Outlook app in Windows 11
Open Outlook app in Windows 11

Once Outlook is open, click on the Settings gear icon at the top right of the menu bar.

Outlook settings button in the app
Outlook settings button in the new Windows 11 app interface.

In the Settings sidebar, click General, then select Notification to open its settings.

Outlook Genenal Notifications setitngs pane
Outlook Genenal Notifications setitngs pane

Under the main Notifications settings, look for the 'Notifications in Outlook' section. You should now see a dropdown caret allowing you to enable or disable sounds for notifications.

📝Good to Know
(This assumes you have "Notification in Outlook" turned on.) If Notifications are not enabled, the settings below won't have any effects.
Notification in Outlook section in settings
Notification in Outlook section in settings

On the expanded caret, check the box next to "Send notifications when Outlook is closed" to enable receiving notifications when the application is closed.

Uncheck the box to disable notifications when you're not using the application.

Outlook send notifications when Outlook is closed
Outlook send notifications when Outlook is closed

You can exit the application when you're done.

If you are having issues with notifications, ensure Outlook notifications are enabled in your Windows Notification settings, that Focus Assist (formerly known as Windows Focus) is turned off, and that Battery Saver is turned off to receive notifications.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • Enabling or disabling notifications when Outlook is closed on Windows 11 can help you manage your productivity and stay updated on important emails and appointments.
  • The option to receive notifications when the app is closed provides the convenience of staying informed without actively using the Outlook app.
  • Conversely, based on personal preferences and work style, disabling this feature can help minimize distractions and conserve system resources.
  • Following the outlined steps, you can easily configure this setting to suit your needs and enhance your Outlook experience on Windows 11.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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