A Microsoft app for iOS and Android devices that enables authentication with two-factor verification, phone sign-in, and code generation
The message indicates that the current verification method (sending a code to the phone) is temporarily not available for the account, even if the phone number is active.
Use these supported options:
- Try a different verification method
- On the “Verify another way” screen, choose another option such as backup email, another phone number, or Microsoft Authenticator if any are listed.
- If codes are not arriving by SMS or email, avoid repeatedly requesting new codes, as excessive or repetitive requests can cause Microsoft to temporarily block sending verification codes.
- Check why SMS/email codes may not arrive
- Make sure the email being checked is the primary alias or another email added as a way to verify sign in.
- Confirm the phone does not block texts from unknown numbers; if needed, change phone settings and then choose I don't have a code to have a new code sent.
- Ensure the phone’s SMS inbox is not full and the messaging app is working.
- If using a VOIP number, add a mobile phone number instead, because VOIP numbers cannot be used for verification codes.
- For email codes, check the junk folder for messages from @accountprotection.microsoft.com and mark that sender as trusted.
- If there has been unusual activity or many recent attempts, Microsoft may temporarily block sending codes; this usually clears automatically after some time.
- If none of the verification options work
- When prompted to verify and no method works or is accessible, select I don't have any of these and follow the prompts to update or add new security info to the Microsoft account.
- If still unable to sign in or receive codes, use the Sign-in helper to diagnose most sign-in issues and follow its guidance.
- When completely stuck
- If no verification method is usable and the sign-in helper does not resolve the issue, go to Contact Microsoft Support, describe the problem, and select Get Help, then Contact Support if needed. Support agents cannot send verification codes or change account details, but can guide through the available recovery options.
References:
- Troubleshoot Microsoft verification code issues
- Microsoft account has been locked
- My Microsoft account is blocked. - Microsoft Q&A
- Having problems getting text codes to confirm my account - Microsoft Q&A
- Can't sign in to my email - Microsoft Q&A
- Cannot authenticate with E-mail when logging into Microsoft Authenticator(iOS). - Microsoft Q&A
- Keeps prompting "Add a recovery phone number" but my phone is already added for recovery - Microsoft Q&A