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Flat for Education Help > Why do I have to sign in with Google when I use a Gmail address?

Why do I have to sign in with Google when I use a Gmail address?

Last updated September 28, 2026

If your Flat account uses an @gmail.com address, you always sign in with Google, even if you choose to sign in with your email and a password. You can't set a password for these accounts, so there is no password to reset: just sign in with Google.

Why Flat requires Google sign-in for Gmail addresses

This is a security measure that protects your account. Google sign-in confirms that the Gmail address really belongs to you. Without it, anyone could create a Flat account with someone else's Gmail address, and Flat would send emails to a person who never signed up.

If you prefer not to sign in with Google

Change the email address of your Flat account to one that isn't a Gmail address, such as your school email address. After that, you can sign in with your email address and a password, without going through Google.

Still can't sign in?

If you see an error message when you sign in, check Common Access Errors & How to Fix Them. If you still can't sign in, or need help changing your email address, feel free to contact us, we will be happy to help you!

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