When you set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your ID.me account, you can generate a recovery code. This code acts as a backup sign-in method if you lose access to your phone or MFA device. This article explains how to generate your recovery code, save it securely, and use it to sign in to your account.

When you can generate a recovery code

Recovery codes can only be saved when you first set up MFA on your account. This option won’t display when adding a secondary MFA method.

Generate your recovery code

At the end of the MFA setup process, we will confirm that your account is secure. This is where you can generate and save your recovery code.

1. Select Generate recovery code.
   
2. Write down the code or save it to your device as a PDF by selecting Download a copy.
3. Keep this code in a secure place, as it will be necessary for account access if you cannot use your primary MFA method.

Important recovery code rules

Keep in mind:

• A recovery code can only be used once.
• Once a recovery code is used, a new one will be issued, and the original code becomes invalid.

Sign in with your ID.me recovery code

To sign in using your recovery code:

1. Go to the website or organization you need to access.
2. Sign in to your ID.me account.
3. When prompted to choose an MFA method, select Recovery code.
   
4. Enter your recovery code and select Continue.
5. A new code will be generated. Save or write down the new code.
6. Select Continue to complete the sign-in process.