Verification code not arriving? What to check

Most verification codes arrive within a minute. When one doesn’t, it’s usually one of these, roughly in this order.

The number has a typo or the wrong country code

Check the digits in the app against the number you meant to enter. If the app has a separate country field, the number goes in without its country code. Copying and pasting avoids most mistakes.

The app sent it another way

Some apps send codes by voice call, by email, or as a message inside another app unless you ask for SMS. Look for a “Send SMS” or “Text me instead” option on the code screen.

You asked for a new code too soon

Apps limit how often they resend codes. Asking again before the timer runs out can cancel the previous code or block sending for a while. Wait for the countdown, then ask once.

The app doesn’t send to that number

Apps decide which countries and kinds of numbers they send codes to, and that changes over time. If one number gets nothing, a number from another country often works.

If you’re using one of our numbers

Keep the order page open; the code appears there as soon as the SMS reaches us. If nothing arrives within 20 minutes, the order is refunded to your balance automatically, and you can try another country straight away. If the app says the number isn’t valid, cancel the order before an SMS arrives to get the money back in your balance.