Don't receive SMS code which is the only option in my case

Question

Hi! I can connect to my personal Outlook account. With my workphone, I can't add a personal account on Authenticator, and there is no backup email associated to my account.

When I hit "Send SMS code", I don't receive it. What can I do?

Answer 1

Hi Kossa Thu,

I understand how frustrating it is when SMS is the only verification option available but the code does not arrive.

Please try the following:

• Make sure the last digits shown on the verification screen match your current mobile number.
• Check that your phone can receive regular SMS messages and is not blocking unknown or short-code senders. Also ensure that the message inbox is not full and that the number is a mobile number rather than a VoIP number.
• Avoid requesting the code repeatedly, as too many attempts may temporarily prevent additional codes from being sent.
• If available, select I don’t have a code and request a new code after checking the settings above.

Since you can still access the account, please also visit your Microsoft account Security settings and add another verification method, such as a recovery email or passkey, using a personal device. Your organization may prevent personal accounts from being added to Microsoft Authenticator on a managed work phone.

If the SMS still does not arrive and no other verification method is available, use the Microsoft Sign-in Helper

Please note that this is a user-to-user support forum. Moderators, contributors including external Microsoft employees cannot directly intervene in Microsoft product features or access back-end systems. Our role is limited to providing technical guidance on reported issues, requests, or ideas only.

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