Reddit Phone Verification: How It Works

Reddit asks for a phone number to confirm you are a real person and to protect your account. A real mobile number works best; many internet (VoIP) numbers are refused. Here is how it works and what to do when the code does not come.

When Reddit asks for your number

Reddit signs you up with an email address or a Google or Apple account; a phone number is optional. Social apps confirm phone numbers to cut spam and fake accounts, and to help you recover the account.

Which numbers work

• Your own mobile number works, as long as it can receive texts from short codes.
• Non-VoIP numbers from a mobile carrier are treated like any other phone.
• VoIP numbers from calling apps are often refused, or the code never arrives.
• A number already used on another Reddit account is usually refused.

Step by step

1. Open the phone step in Reddit and choose the country from the list.
2. Type the number without a leading 0 or a repeated country code.
3. Ask for the code once and wait a minute.
4. If the app offers a call or email instead, use it when texts do not arrive.
5. Enter the newest code only.

Using a virtual number for Reddit

A second number that you control can receive Reddit's code if it is a real mobile line. Avoid free public numbers: everyone can read them, and Reddit has usually seen them before.

If the code does not come

• Check spam and "unknown senders" in your messages app.
• Pause text-blocker apps and Do Not Disturb.
• After "too many attempts", wait a few hours before trying again.
• Try another number type if the app refuses yours.

FAQ

Why does Reddit need my phone number?

Social apps confirm phone numbers to cut spam and fake accounts, and to help you recover the account.

Does Reddit accept virtual numbers?

Non-VoIP mobile numbers usually work; numbers from internet calling apps are often refused.

Can I use one number on two Reddit accounts?

Usually not: most apps allow a number on one account at a time.

What if Reddit says too many attempts?

Wait a few hours, then request one code.

Will Reddit ask for the code again later?

Often, when you sign in on a new device or change account details. Keep the number, or add email and an authenticator app.

Should I use a free public number?

Only for a quick test. Anyone can read the code, and popular apps usually refuse those numbers.

Related: Reddit two-factor codes · Reddit account recovery · Reddit code not received · Reddit without your number · reddit asking for your phone number here s what s actually g · verification code not received on any app.