When an app says it sent a verification code, but nothing arrives, it’s usually a delivery, filtering, or formatting issue—not your fault. Here are practical checks you can do in a few minutes on any device.
Start with the quick wins before you request more codes.
1. Confirm the contact info is correct (country code and typos)
The most common cause is a small mismatch: the wrong email, an old phone number, or a missing country code.
- SMS: ensure the number includes the correct country code (for example, +1, +44) and that you didn’t drop a digit.
- Email: double-check spelling, plus-addressing (name+tag@domain), and whether you’re using the right inbox.
If the app auto-fills your number, try re-entering it manually.
2. Stop requesting codes for 10–15 minutes (avoid rate limits)
Repeated requests can trigger temporary throttling, where codes are still “sent” but delayed or blocked.
- Wait 10–15 minutes, then request a single new code.
- Use the most recent code you receive. Older ones often expire immediately when a new one is generated.
One calm attempt is better than five rapid taps.
3. Check spam filters, inbox rules, and focused tabs (for email codes)
Email verification messages are easy for filters to misclassify.
- Search your inbox for the app name and keywords like code, verification, or OTP.
- Check Spam/Junk, Promotions, and any “Focused/Other” style tabs.
- Look for rules/filters that auto-archive or auto-delete messages from unknown senders.
If you find it in spam, mark it as “Not spam” so future codes land in your inbox.
4. For SMS: check blocked numbers, spam protection, and dual-SIM routing
Phones can silently block short codes or flagged senders.
- Check your SMS app’s Blocked list and any “Spam & blocked” folder.
- If you use dual SIM, make sure the correct SIM is set to receive SMS for that number.
- Temporarily disable carrier/app spam protection features if they’re aggressive, then request one code.
If you recently ported your number to a new carrier, SMS short codes can take time to fully work.
5. Turn off VPN/ad blockers briefly and try a different network
Some apps’ verification flows don’t behave well with VPNs, private DNS, or aggressive blockers.
- Disable VPN/proxy and any network-level ad blocker temporarily.
- Switch networks: Wi‑Fi to mobile data, or try another Wi‑Fi.
- Request one new code after switching.
This is especially helpful if the app hangs on “Sending code…” or “Try again later.”
6. Make sure your device clock is set automatically
If your phone/computer time is wrong, verification systems can treat requests as suspicious or immediately expired.
- Enable Set time automatically (and time zone auto-detect if available).
- Restart the app and request a new code.
It’s a small setting that can break sign-in in surprisingly weird ways.
7. Use an alternate method (authenticator, backup codes, or support)
If the app offers other options, use them rather than repeatedly requesting SMS/email codes.
- Try “Use another method”: authenticator app, push prompt, or passkey.
- If you previously saved backup codes, use one to get in, then update your phone/email in settings.
- If you’re locked out and codes never arrive, contact support and ask them to verify whether your address/number is flagged or bouncing.
Once you regain access, update your recovery options so you have a fallback next time.
Final thoughts
Most “code not arriving” problems come down to a typo, filtering, or rate limiting. Slow down, verify the destination, and request a single fresh code after you’ve made one change.
If it keeps happening, switch to an authenticator or passkey where possible—those avoid SMS/email delivery issues entirely.