verification method

Question

I want to get verification codes on my cell phone, not via my email

Answer 1

To receive verification codes on a cell phone instead of email, configure a phone-based method (text or call) as a security/verification method on the account.

For a work or school (Microsoft Entra) account:

1. Go to the Security info page: https://mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info and sign in.
2. Select Add sign-in method (or similar) and choose Phone or Authentication phone.
3. Select the country/region and enter the mobile phone number (no extensions; direct mobile numbers only).
4. Choose one of:
   • Text me a code (SMS), or
   • Call me (phone call).
5. Complete the verification:
   • For SMS: enter the code that is texted to the phone.
   • For call: answer the call and follow the instructions (for example, press # to confirm).
6. Save the changes and, if desired, set this phone method as the default sign-in/verification method.

Important notes:

• If the phone/SMS option is greyed out or not visible, the organization’s admin has disabled phone-based verification. In that case, another method (such as Microsoft Authenticator) must be used, or the help desk/administrator must be contacted to allow phone methods.
• Phone calls and text messages can be used for both two-factor verification and password reset, as long as they are enabled for the account.
• VOIP numbers cannot be used for verification codes; a mobile phone number is required.

If text messages or calls are not arriving:

1. Try requesting the code up to five times within 5 minutes.
2. Temporarily disable any third-party security or call/SMS filtering apps that might block Microsoft messages or calls, then request another code.
3. If issues persist, sign in again and choose a different verification method (for example, Microsoft Authenticator app) if it is configured.
4. If none of the methods work, open a support case with the organization’s IT or Microsoft support as appropriate.

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References:

• Set up a mobile device as a two-step verification method
• Set up a phone call as your verification method
• Frequently asked questions about Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication
• Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
• Why is Microsoft texting me?