The easiest and most universal email account to use is Gmail, which is offered free by Google.

If a user does not have a Gmail account, you can follow these steps to create one:

To create a Gmail account for an individual who does not have an existing email account currently:

1. Go to gmail.com in your browser. **https://accounts.google.com/signin**

2. Click "Create an Account."

3. Select For my personal use

4. Enter your name, birthday, and gender

5. Choose a username

6. Create a password. Be certain it meets the requirements and follows safety guidelines

7. Enter your phone number to verify your account.

8. Enter the verification code you receive to your phone from Google

9. Review Google's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

10. Click I agree

Barriers and Workarounds

Gmail usually asks for a phone number while creating an account because it does not want bot accounts. Many people trying to create gmails do not have a phone to use in the verification process. In these cases, see if they have a relative or friend who can help with this process. Using the same number too many times will get the created account suspended on suspicion of being a bot.

One Potential workaround: The Gmail app on Android and iOS sometimes allows you to skip the phone number entry. On Android, go to Settings > Accounts > Add Account > Google > Create Account, and select the “Skip” option. A similar trick works on iPhone/iPad, where you can add your Google account without entering a phone number.