Tips for receiving codes
Get your code on the first try: use the number straight away, choose countries with a good track record and follow each platform's rules.
Most codes arrive without any trouble. These tips help when a platform is more demanding.
Use the number immediately
Enter the number on the platform as soon as it appears and request the code right away. A number is active only until its countdown ends; after that it is closed and later messages are not delivered to you.
Choose countries with a good track record
Where we have enough history, each country shows a success rate for the selected service. A higher rate means recent codes arrived more reliably. If a platform keeps refusing numbers from one country, try another.
Numbers are for one-time verification
Numbers are temporary and may be given to other customers after your activation ends. Do not use them for accounts you will need to recover later, for two-factor authentication or for banking: you would not be able to receive codes on that number again.
Respect each platform's terms
Use numbers lawfully and only in ways the platform you sign up for allows. Creating accounts for spam, fraud or fake reviews, or to get around a ban, is prohibited by our Terms of Service — and usually by the platform too.
When a code does not arrive
Double-check the number and the country code you entered.
Ask the platform to resend the code once, then wait a little.
Cancel or replace the number once that option is available. The reserved amount is released, so you are not charged.