PayPal Verification Code Not Received
Workaround available Web, iOS, Android Updated November 13, 2026Based on 3 user reportsHow we research
Quick answer
SMS codes fail mostly because of an old phone number on file, carrier short-code blocks or spam filtering. Fix the number or switch to an authenticator app.
Most likely fix: Check the number and filters
How to fix it
Try these in order — the most common fix is first.
1. Check the number and filters
- Look in the spam or blocked messages folder (Android Messages, iPhone Filters)
- Confirm the number on file ends with the digits shown
Did this fix it?2. Ask your carrier
- PayPal recommends asking the carrier to enable short-code text messaging
Did this fix it?3. Restart and retry
- Restart the phone, clear message storage, wait a few minutes, request one new code
Did this fix it?4. Use another method
- Choose a different verification option if offered, such as an authenticator app or the PayPal app prompt
- Update the phone number in Settings once you are in
Did this fix it?5. Contact PayPal if locked out
- Use the Help Centre contact route and be ready to verify your identity
Did this fix it?
Symptoms
You request a 2-step verification code by text and it never arrives, so you cannot log in.
Why it happens
- Phone number on the account is out of date
- Carrier blocks short-code texts
- Messages filtered into spam or blocked
- Full inbox or no signal
- SIM changed
This guide also covers
- paypal verification code not received
- paypal 2fa not working
- paypal security code not sending
- paypal 2 step verification problem
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