If the email password retrieval (password reset) function is not working in WordPress, it can be due to various reasons. Here are steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:

1. Check Spam Folder:

   • Sometimes, password reset emails may be mistakenly flagged as spam by email providers. Ask users to check their spam or junk folders for the reset email.

2. Verify Email Settings:

   • Make sure that your WordPress site is configured to send emails correctly. You can check this in Settings > General > Email Address.

3. Test Email Sending:

   • Use a plugin like "WP Mail SMTP" to test if your WordPress site is able to send emails. It can help diagnose any email-related issues.

4. Check SMTP Configuration:

   • If your server requires SMTP authentication to send emails, ensure that the correct SMTP credentials are configured in your WordPress settings. Plugins like "WP Mail SMTP" can help with this.

5. Check if Your Server is Sending Email:

   • Some hosting providers might have restrictions on sending emails from WordPress. Contact your hosting provider to ensure they allow WordPress to send emails.

6. Check for Plugin Conflicts:

   • Deactivate all plugins and try the password reset function again. If it works, reactivate each plugin one by one to identify the conflicting one.

7. Check for Theme Conflicts:

   • Temporarily switch to a default WordPress theme (like Twenty Twenty-One) to see if the issue is related to your current theme.

8. Check PHP Mail Function:

   • Ensure that your server supports and has PHP's mail function enabled. Some servers might disable this function, which can prevent emails from being sent.

9. Check Error Logs:

   • Access your server's error logs for any specific information about email-sending issues. This can provide more context on what's causing the problem.

10. Use an SMTP Plugin:

    • Consider using an SMTP plugin like "WP Mail SMTP" or "Easy WP SMTP" to route your emails through a reliable SMTP server.

11. Check for Firewall or Security Plugins:

    • Some security plugins or firewalls may block or modify outgoing emails. Check your security plugin settings for any email-related configurations.

12. Reset Password Manually via Database:

    • If all else fails, you can manually reset a user's password through the database. This involves using PHPMyAdmin or a similar tool. Be cautious when making changes in the database and always create a backup first.

Remember to always back up your site before making any significant changes. This allows you to revert back if any further issues arise.