General Steps Before Deletion

Backup Important Data: Before deleting your account, make sure to back up any important emails, contacts, and files. You can usually download your emails or export your contacts through your email provider’s settings.
Unsubscribe from Services: If your email is linked to any subscriptions or services, make sure to unsubscribe or update your email address to avoid losing access to those accounts.
Notify Contacts: Inform your important contacts about your decision to delete the account and provide them with an alternative email address if necessary.

Deleting Your Email Account by Provider

1. Gmail (Google)

Sign In: Log into your Gmail account.
Access Account Settings: Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select "Manage your Google Account."
Data & Personalization: Navigate to the "Data & personalization" tab.
Download Your Data: If you want to keep any data, use the "Download your data" option.
Delete Account: Scroll down to "Delete a service or your account." Click on "Delete your account." Follow the prompts to confirm your identity and permanently delete your Gmail account.

2. Outlook.com (Microsoft)

Sign In: Log into your Outlook.com account.
Account Settings: Click on your profile picture and select "View account."
Security: Go to the "Security" section.
More Security Options: Click on "More security options" and then "Close my account."
Follow Instructions: Follow the prompts to confirm your identity and complete the account closure process. Microsoft may ask you to verify your identity through a code sent to your phone or alternate email.

3. Yahoo Mail

Sign In: Log into your Yahoo Mail account.
Account Security: Click on your profile name and select "Account Info," then go to "Account Security."
Manage Account: Scroll down and click on "Terminate Account."
Follow Prompts: Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your decision and permanently delete your account.

4. Zoho Mail

Sign In: Log into your Zoho Mail account.
Account Settings: Click on the gear icon to access settings.
Account Management: Navigate to "Account" and then "Delete Account."
Confirm Deletion: Follow the prompts to confirm the deletion. Zoho may require you to verify your identity.

5. ProtonMail

Sign In: Log into your ProtonMail account.
Settings: Click on "Settings" in the top right corner.
Account: Navigate to the "Account" section.
Delete Account: Scroll down to find the "Delete Account" option. Follow the prompts to confirm the deletion.

Final Steps

Check for Confirmation: After completing the deletion process, you should receive a confirmation email or notification. Keep an eye out for this to ensure that your account has been successfully deleted.
Wait for Account Deletion: Some providers may take a few days to fully delete your account. During this time, your account may still be recoverable.
Monitor for Emails: After deletion, monitor your other email accounts to ensure you’re not receiving any emails at the deleted address.

Conclusion

Permanently deleting your free business email account is a significant decision that should be made carefully. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your account is deleted securely and that you have taken the necessary precautions to protect your data. Always remember to back up important information and notify your contacts before proceeding with the deletion.