Posted on 29/10/26 02:52 pm
Apple ID code not arriving? Apple shows it on your other Apple devices first. If you have none, tap "Didn't get a code?" for a text or call. 8 fixes.
Apple's two-factor authentication sends the 6-digit code to your trusted Apple devices first, as a pop-up, and only then by text or call to your trusted phone number. Apple now calls the Apple ID an Apple Account, but the code works the same way. Here is what to check and what to do.
| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| "Apple ID Sign In Requested" pop-up | Someone (hopefully you) is signing in elsewhere. | Tap Allow on the device to see the code; tap Don't Allow if it isn't you. |
| "Didn't get a verification code?" | You can choose another delivery method. | Pick "Text me" or "Call me" for your trusted number. |
| "Too many verification codes have been sent" | You asked for too many codes. | Enter the last code you received, or wait and try later. |
| "Verification failed" | The code was old, mistyped, or the sign-in timed out. | Start the sign-in again and use the newest code. |
| "This phone number cannot be used at this time" | Apple won't accept this number for the account right now. | Use a different mobile number, or try later. |
| Account recovery waiting period | You can't receive codes on any trusted device or number. | Let Apple's account recovery run; it can take days. |
When the "Apple ID Sign In Requested" pop-up appears, it shows a map of where the sign-in comes from. The location is based on the internet connection, not GPS, so it is often a nearby city or your internet provider's location rather than your exact address. A rough match is normal.
If you don't recognise the sign-in at all, tap Don't Allow and change your Apple Account password from a device you trust. Never give the 6-digit code to anyone who calls or texts you asking for it, even if they say they are Apple Support.
Travelling? Codes on your trusted Apple devices work over Wi-Fi without roaming, and Settings → your name → Sign-In & Security → Get Verification Code works even offline. Texts to your trusted number need roaming that allows incoming SMS.
When you create an Apple Account, Apple asks for a phone number to verify and to become your first trusted number. Apple limits how many accounts one number can verify, so a busy family number may be refused with "This phone number cannot be used at this time".
That number will receive your two-factor codes for as long as you use the account. Choose a number you will keep, or add a second trusted number right after sign-up.
Apple refuses some internet-based (VoIP) numbers, and because your trusted number is how you get back into the account, a number you will lose is a real risk.
On SMS Pin Verify you can get a USA number for Apple ID, a real mobile-carrier (non-VoIP) line, and the code shows in your account:
A code is never guaranteed, because Apple decides whether to send it. Never leave a temporary number as the only trusted number on an Apple Account.
Apple sends it to your other signed-in Apple devices first. Tap Didn't get a verification code? to have it texted or read out by call.
Yes, by text or call to your trusted phone number.
You asked for too many codes. Enter the last one you got, or wait before asking again.
Use a signed-in device to get a code from Settings. If you have none, start account recovery at iforgot.apple.com.
Yes. Apple renamed Apple ID to Apple Account; the sign-in and codes work the same.
Related: SMS codes not arriving in general · WhatsApp verification code not received.
Receive SMS online · Non-VoIP numbers · Temporary phone numbers · Free numbers
