Photoshop Elements 13 Non-stop requests to sign in to Adobe

[meg_4134]

Hello all,
This is my first post and I apologize for its length.
I've been using PSE 13 since 2014. (I know I'm behind the times, but it does what I need.)
A few weeks ago oddly, my Windows 10 PC crashed and coincidentally, my Seagate back up drive failed right about the same time.
I logged into my Adobe account to find my product keys for PSE & PRE and downloaded both programs in the same version (13) that I owned.
During installation, I was asked to sign into Adobe for verification which I did and installation proceeded. I put in my product key when asked and thought all was well when installation was complete.
I tried to open PSE and got a message saying I need to sign in to Adobe AGAIN for verification or some such. After signing in again & again, I still cannot use the program, I keep getting blocked by the same sign in screen.
In less that 24 hours I tried 5 times without success, I'm beside myself. I haven't yet tried PRE, frustration level is too high. 🙂 I'm very comfortable with computers and software, but I've never come across a sitiation like this.
I understand that companies need to protect their properties, but this is ridiculous! This is a program I purchased directly from Adobe and registered it back then. It shows in my profile.
Any and all advice would be welcome. Thank you!

[hatstead]

Over the years, on how many machines have you installed the software? 

[meg_4134 · Accepted solution]

Always one machine. I got a new PC in 2016 and that the only one I've used since. I did a full reformat on the one I had it 2014 before I gave it away.

Thank you for your response. 

[hatstead]

If I understand correctly, the software was installed on the machine that you gave away, and on the 2016 machine. The license was for installation on 2 active machines. Did you sign out/deactivate PSE via the help menu prior to reformatting the disk?

I suspect that Adobe's server is blocking you and this action is causally related. You can set up a chat session with Adobe with the request to reactivate PSE for you. They may claim that PSEv.13 is no longer supported, however.                                                      

[meg_4134]

Yes, the software was installed on 2 different machines but not at the same time. I had uninstalled everything on the first machine, did a full (not quick) format and a clean install of windows. No, I didn't deactivate PSE.  When I sign into my account both products are there with their respective activation keys. 

A little while ago, I decided to try Premier Elements.  It worked fine, no sign in request.

Even though the old version fits my needs, I would consider upgrading IF there was a one-time fee. I dislike subscriptions.

Thank you once again.

Meg.

[Greg_S.]

You can try following the instructions for offline activation found in this HelpX Article.  Although it references Elements 2019, it may work for your situation.  Please let us know if it does.

[meg_4134]

Thank you for the suggestion. I bookmarked the page.

It seems that I have to uninstall the program and reinstall as a trial version. I'm desperate, so will try it.

I've already uninstalled / reinstalled today, so perhaps tomorrow.

Thank you!

[meg_4134]

After spending way too much time on the phone with Adobe support, I decided to upgraade to the 2025 version. They said PSE 13 is no longer supported, etc, etc. At least the cost of the new version covers 3 years. I do not like monthly subscriptions.

Thank you for your help, everyone!