Changing your phone number? Update your accounts first

The easiest time to change the number on your accounts is while you can still receive texts on the old one.

Apps that check the old number

• TikTok: both the old and the new number need to be active to change it.
• Depop and Carousell: a code goes to your current number first.
• Leboncoin: a code to the old number; without it, customer service wants a bill for the old line and your ID.
• Marktplaats: change it yourself while you’re still logged in; otherwise through customer service.
• Bolt: a code goes to the new number, and the change only takes effect once you confirm it.

A checklist

1. Before the old number stops working, list the apps that text you codes: email, banking, messaging, shopping.
2. Change the number in each, confirming with codes to the old and new numbers as asked.
3. Where you can, add an authenticator app or backup codes, so the next change is easier.

Step by step, app by app

See the guides for WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Viber, Discord, X, Google and Apple. Keeping your number on a new network instead? See PAC codes.

Numbers you only needed once

A one-time number from ReserveSMS receives codes for 20 minutes only, so an account set up with one can’t change number later by code. Add an email you keep, or an authenticator app, straight away. See keeping an account after a temporary number.

Common questions

Do I need my old number to change it on an app?

Often, yes. TikTok needs both numbers active, and Depop, Carousell and leboncoin send a code to the old one first.

What if I’ve already lost my old number?

Use each app’s support or recovery route. Some, like leboncoin, ask for a bill for the old line and your ID.

How can I make changing numbers easier next time?

Add an authenticator app or backup codes to your accounts, so sign-ins don’t depend on a text.