You used your ZEDSMS number to sign up for an app or website, but the verification code never showed up. This article explains the most common reasons and what to try.
Please note: under our Terms & Conditions, we do not guarantee that a number will receive verification codes from, or be accepted by, any app or platform. Many apps and websites choose not to accept virtual numbers. This is explained below.
Why a code may not arrive
1. The service does not accept virtual numbers
This is the most common reason. Many apps and websites block virtual numbers and never send the code at all. It is the service's decision, not a fault with ZEDSMS, and we can't change it. A number that works for one service may not work for another.
2. You are using a Shared number
Shared numbers are used by several customers and can only receive SMS from one service. If the service has already sent a code to that number recently, or has blocked it, you may not get a new code. A Private number is assigned only to you and is often more reliable.
3. The number has expired
A number that is not renewed by its expiry date stops working, and messages sent to it will not arrive. Check My Numbers for an Expired label. See What happens when a number expires, and how do I restore it? and turn on auto-renew to avoid this.
4. The number was typed incorrectly
Check that you entered the number exactly as shown in ZEDSMS, with the correct country code, and chose the right country in the other app.
5. Delays on the sender's side
Text messages travel through third-party carriers, so we can't guarantee every message arrives instantly or from every sender. Some services also limit how many codes they send, or pause after several requests.
6. US numbers: inbound message allowance
US numbers include a number of free inbound SMS; after that, inbound messages are billed at the rate shown when you bought the number. Make sure you have enough balance.
What to try
- Open My Numbers, click the number, and check the Inbox tab. Codes are shown in their own box under the message. Use Search messages to find it.
- Check that the number is active and not expired.
- Wait a couple of minutes. Do not request many codes in a row, as this can make the service stop sending them.
- Choose the SMS option (not a call or email) in the other app, and check the number is typed correctly.
- Try again with a different country number or a Private number.
- If you still have no code, contact support@zedsms.com and include your ZEDSMS ID, the number, the service you are signing up for and the time you requested the code.
Refunds
As set out in section 7 of our Terms & Conditions, purchases are non-refundable once supplied. We will not refund where a third party refuses or blocks a number, or where you bought the wrong number. We will refund if you were charged twice for the same purchase, or if we failed to supply what you paid for and cannot fix it. Please email support before raising a chargeback with your bank.