Text message or phone call is a secure multi-factor authentication (MFA) method that helps protect your ID.me account. You’ll receive a 6-digit code by text or call to complete sign-in. This article explains how to set up and use text message or phone call MFA.

What to know before setting up text message MFA

• 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.

Add text message or phone call as a second MFA method

If you already have another MFA method set up, you can add text message or phone call as an additional method:

1. Sign in to your ID.me account using your current MFA method.
2. In My Account, select Sign In & Security.
3. Next to Text Message or Phone Call, select Set up.
4. When prompted, complete sign-in using your current MFA method.
5. Enter the phone number you'd like to use, select Text me or Call me, then select Continue.
6. Receive and enter code
   You'll receive a 6-digit code via text or phone call. Enter the code, then select Continue.
7. Select Continue again to complete the setup process.

Set up text message or phone call MFA

1. When prompted, select Text Message or Phone Call.
2. Enter the phone number you'd like to use. Select Text me or Call me, then select Continue.
   
3. 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.
   
4. 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:

1. Sign in to your ID.me account.
2. Select Text Message or Phone Call as the MFA method.
3. Enter the 6-digit code you received via text or phone call to complete the sign-in.

I didn’t get a text message to sign in

If you didn’t get a text message with a code to sign in, visit Didn’t receive a text message from ID.me?

Change or update your phone number

If you got a new phone number, you’ll need to set up a new MFA method.