Amazon Verification Code Not Received? 8 Fixes That Work

Amazon OTP not arriving? Approve the sign-in in the Amazon app, or choose another method like a call, authenticator or email. 8 fixes in order.

Amazon sends a one-time password (OTP) when you create an account, sign in on a new device and when Two-Step Verification is on. It can also ask you to approve the sign-in from the Amazon Shopping app instead. Here is how to get in when the OTP doesn't come.

Check these first (30 seconds)

• Approve sign-in notification. If the Amazon Shopping app is signed in on a phone, look for an "Approve sign in" notification.
• The number on the account. Codes go to the mobile number or email saved in Login & Security.
• Country code. Amazon accounts in different countries use different codes; pick the right country.
• Spam and filtered texts. Check spam in your messages app and email.

What Amazon's message means

8 fixes, in order

1. Approve in the Amazon app. On a phone where you are signed in, approve the request.
2. Choose another method. Tap "Didn't receive the OTP?" or "Choose another method" for a voice call, email or authenticator app.
3. Resend once. Use only the newest code; older ones stop working.
4. Check the account number. Once in, go to Your Account → Login & Security → Mobile number and update it.
5. Turn off SMS filters and restart. Pause spam filters and blockers, and check signal or roaming.
6. Update the app or use the website. Try the latest Amazon app, or sign in on the website.
7. Wait out a limit. After "too many attempts", wait a few hours.
8. Use account recovery. If no method reaches you, follow the account recovery steps from the sign-in page; Amazon may ask for documents and it can take days.

Two-Step Verification and backup methods

With Two-Step Verification (Your Account → Login & Security → Two-Step Verification (2SV) Settings), Amazon asks for a code on new devices. Add a backup method there: a second phone number or an authenticator app. With a backup, a lost phone is a short delay instead of a recovery case.

Amazon seller accounts (Seller Central) are separate and stricter; see Amazon seller phone verification.

When your own number just won't work

If texts from Amazon never reach your number, another mobile number can help, but Amazon will keep sending codes to it.

In that case a non-VoIP number is the practical fix. These are real mobile-carrier numbers, which is what Amazon expects. On SMS Pin Verify you can pick a USA number for Amazon and the code appears on screen in your account:

• One-time number: held for you for 15 minutes to receive one code. If no code arrives, you are not charged. Good for a single sign-up.
• Rental number: the same number for several days or longer. Pick this if the number will stay on the account, because Amazon texts an OTP whenever you sign in on a new device.

Two honest limits: a code is never guaranteed, because Amazon decides whether to send it; and a number may have been used on Amazon before you, so start a fresh account rather than trying to recover an old one.

Keep your account after you get in

• Turn on Two-Step Verification with an authenticator app as a backup.
• Keep your number and email current in Login & Security.
• Review Your Devices and sign out of ones you don't recognise.
• Never share an Amazon OTP. Calls about "suspicious orders" asking for a code are scams.

FAQ

Why is Amazon not sending me an OTP?

Old number on the account, filtered texts, or too many attempts. Use Choose another method on the code screen.

Can Amazon call me with the OTP?

Yes, a voice call is one of the methods Amazon can offer.

What is the Approve sign in notification?

Amazon asks you to approve the sign-in in its app instead of typing a code.

Can I create an Amazon account without a phone number?

Sometimes with email only; Amazon may still ask for a phone. See the guide below.

Related: create an Amazon account without a phone number · SMS codes not arriving in general.

More fixes: verification code not received on any app · Walmart code not received · DoorDash code not received · Ticketmaster code not received.