Text message or phone call is a multi-factor authentication (MFA) method that strengthens your ID.me account security by sending a temporary code to your phone when signing in. This article explains how to set up and use text message or phone call MFA.
Security Strength: Text message or phone call is a fairly secure MFA method.
Before you start
- Phone number extensions not supported: MFA cannot be set up with phone number extensions (e.g., 555-555-5555 ext. 2).
- Restrictions for Medical Providers: This MFA method is not available for medical providers prescribing controlled substances.
- Alternative MFA method: If you can't use a text message or phone call, consider setting up passkey MFA, which is the safest MFA method available.
Set up text message or phone call MFA
- When prompted, select Text Message or Phone Call.
- Enter the phone number you'd like to use. Select Text me or Call me, then select Continue.
-
Receive and enter code
You’ll receive a 6-digit code via text or phone call. Enter the code in the provided field, then select Continue. - Select Continue again to complete the setup process.
Add text message or phone call as a secondary MFA method
If you already have another MFA method set up, you can add text message or phone call as an additional method:
- Sign in to your ID.me account using your current MFA method.
- In My Account, select Sign In & Security.
- Next to Text Message or Phone Call, select Set up.
- When prompted, complete sign-in using your current MFA method.
- Enter the phone number you'd like to use, select Text me or Call me, then select Continue.
-
Receive and enter code
You'll receive a 6-digit code via text or phone call. Enter the code, then select Continue. - Select Continue again to complete the setup process.
Sign in with text message or phone call MFA
To sign in using text message or phone call MFA:
- Sign in to your ID.me account.
- Select Text Message or Phone Call as the MFA method.
- Enter the 6-digit code you received via text or phone call to complete the sign-in.