If Snapchat phone verification isn't working, the code is usually being held up by one of a few things: the number's format, a message filter, too many requests in a short time, or a number type Snapchat won't verify, such as a landline or many VoIP numbers. Snapchat can verify your account by phone or by email, so if the text won't come through, you often have a second route. Here's how to fix both.
Why Snapchat asks for your phone number
Snapchat uses a verified phone number or email to confirm you're a real person, to help friends find you if you allow it, and to recover your account if you forget your password or get locked out. A verified number also lets you receive login codes if you turn on two-factor authentication.
Snapchat phone verification not working: fixes
- Check the number format. Choose the right country and enter the number without its leading 0.
- Request once, then wait. Repeated requests can trigger a temporary limit on new codes.
- Check filters. Look in spam, unknown senders and your blocked list for the message.
- Try the call option if shown. Some verification screens let you receive the code by phone call.
- Use a mobile number. Landlines and many internet-calling numbers can't be verified.
- Verify by email instead. If phone verification won't work, verify your account with your email address in the app's settings.
- Update the app. An outdated version can fail at the verification step.
- Contact Snapchat Support from the app's help section if nothing works.
Common messages
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Phone verification not available | Snapchat won't verify this number or type of number right now | Use another mobile number or verify by email |
| Code never arrives | Format, filter or coverage | Recheck the number; try the call option |
| Too many attempts | Temporary limit after repeated requests | Wait a few hours, then try once |
| Number already linked | The number is on another Snapchat account | Remove it from that account or use another number |
Why some numbers are refused while others work is explained in our article on non-VoIP vs VoIP numbers.
Using a one-time number for sign-up
If your own number won't verify, or you'd rather keep it off a new account, a one-time mobile number can receive Snapchat's code. On smsvar.com you choose Snapchat and a country, check the price on our prices page, and the code appears on your order screen; if nothing arrives in 20 minutes, the fee is refunded to your balance automatically.
Snapchat uses your phone or email to recover the account, so don't leave a temporary phone number as the only recovery option. Add and verify your own email right away. And play fair: Snapchat bans accounts created in bulk, used for spam, or made to evade an earlier ban.
Secure your Snapchat account
- Turn on two-factor authentication, preferably with an authenticator app.
- Save your recovery code somewhere safe; it gets you back in if you lose your phone.
- Keep a verified email on the account.
- Never share a login code with anyone, including people claiming to be Snapchat support.
If a login code arrives that you didn't request, someone may be trying to get into your account; change your password and check your security settings. Our guide on receiving SMS online explains why codes should only ever go to numbers you control.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Snapchat without a phone number?
Yes. You can sign up and verify your account with an email address. Adding a phone number is optional but helps with account recovery and two-factor authentication.
Why does Snapchat say phone verification is not available?
Snapchat sometimes declines to verify certain numbers or number types, such as landlines or many VoIP numbers, or numbers that have been used too often. Try a regular mobile number or verify by email instead.
How long should I wait after too many attempts?
Snapchat doesn't publish an exact time. Stop requesting codes for a few hours, then try once, and avoid tapping resend while you wait.
Can one number be used for two Snapchat accounts?
A phone number is linked to one account at a time. To use it on a new account, remove it from the old one first in the app's settings.
Need a number for Snapchat's code? Open our virtual number page, choose Snapchat and a country, and pay only when the code arrives.