Apple verification code not received?
First check whether Apple is sending codes at all. Below is a live count of Apple codes reaching our public numbers, then the fixes that usually work.
Is Apple sending codes right now?
Apple sends too few codes to our numbers to judge the last hour. The counts below are the best guide.
- Numbers that got codes (7 days)
- 1,187
This counts Apple codes reaching our public numbers. If Apple is delivering here but not to your phone, the problem is most likely the number, your phone or your carrier. Work through the steps below.
What to try
- Check the number format: pick the right country and drop the leading 0 (07700 900123 becomes +44 7700 900123).
- Wait a full minute before pressing resend. With many apps only the newest code works, so resending too early can cancel the first one.
- Stop after two or three requests. Apple limits how many codes it sends and may stop sending for a while without telling you.
- Look for another way to get the code: a phone call, an email, or the code shown in the app on a device where you are already signed in.
- On your own phone: check your signal, turn airplane mode on and off, and look in your spam or unknown-sender filters.
- On a free number: pick one that received a Apple code recently, and switch numbers instead of retrying one that failed.
Apple tips
- Never keep a public number as a trusted number. Add your own under Sign-In & Security, then remove this one.
- Apple may offer a phone call instead of a text. Calls cannot reach the number’s inbox, so choose the text message option.
- Apple usually shows codes on your other signed-in Apple devices first, which is safer than any SMS.
Free numbers that recently received Apple codes
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Apple verification code not coming?
Usually the number was entered in the wrong format, the code is delayed or rate-limited after several requests, or Apple won't send to that number. Check the live status above first: if Apple is delivering normally, the problem is on the receiving side.
How long does a Apple code take to arrive?
Usually a few seconds. Delays of a minute or two happen, so wait a full minute before asking for a new code.
Can I get a Apple code without my own phone number?
Sometimes. The free numbers on our Apple page received Apple codes recently, but they are public: anyone can read the code, so use them only for throwaway accounts.