Authenticator app not sending the unique number to my phone

Follow these steps to restore access when Microsoft Authenticator is not sending a notification/number for work sign-in:

1. Try another MFA method if available
   On the sign-in screen, after entering the work email and password, select Other ways to sign in (or similar) and choose:
   • SMS or phone call (if configured), or
   • Email code (if configured).
     If SMS/email also fail with repeated attempts, wait before retrying because excessive requests can cause temporary blocking.
2. Avoid repeated sign-in/code requests
   Microsoft Entra multifactor authentication can temporarily block sign-in if it detects many attempts or unusual activity. If there have already been multiple failed attempts:
   • Stop trying repeatedly.
   • Wait and try again later, or use a different MFA method if one is configured.
     If malicious activity is suspected, contact the organization’s IT administrator so they can review Microsoft Entra sign-in logs and MFA configuration.
3. Check if verification codes are being blocked or delayed
   If using SMS or email as backup and not receiving codes:
   • Ensure the phone does not block texts from unknown numbers; then choose I don't have a code to resend.
   • Confirm the SMS inbox is not full and the messaging app is working.
   • Check the email junk/spam folder for messages from @accountprotection.microsoft.com and mark as trusted.
   • Verify that the phone number or email shown (masked) is actually correct.
4. Use Authenticator notification correctly
   When prompted:
   • On the sign-in page, choose Send notification. If needed, select Other ways to sign in → Approve a request on my Microsoft Authenticator app.
   • When the prompt says Check your Authenticator app (sometimes with a number), open the app on the phone and approve the request or enter the shown number.
5. If locked out and no alternative method works
   • If this is a work or school account and there is an IT/admin team, request that an administrator reset MFA settings in Microsoft Entra ID so Authenticator can be re-registered.
   • If already tried all available methods and still cannot sign in after multiple attempts, contact the organization’s Help desk as instructed in the documentation so they can investigate and, if needed, clear MFA settings.

These steps address both missing Authenticator notifications and situations where repeated attempts have caused temporary blocking.

References:

• Common problems with two-step verification for a work or school account
• Sign in using Microsoft Authenticator