When Google might send you a text

Below are some reasons you could get a text (SMS) from Google.

You can’t get in to your account, and you want to reset your password

If you've added a recovery phone number to your account, Google can text you a code. This code can help you reset your password and get back in. Learn more about using your phone as a recovery option.

You've signed up for 2-Step Verification

If you use 2-Step Verification, you’ve elected to get a verification code by text when you sign in. This code adds an extra layer of security to your account. Learn more about 2-Step Verification.

You're creating an account, and we want to make sure you’re not a robot

If you’re creating a Google Account, we might ask you to enter a verification code that we send to your phone. Learn more about verifying your account by text message.

You’re signing in, and we want to make sure that you’re really you

We sometimes ask you to complete an extra sign-in step, like if:

• You sign in from a place where you usually don’t sign in.
• You use a device you haven’t used before.

The extra step can include entering a verification code that we send to your phone by text. Learn more about unusual sign-ins.

You’ve made changes to your account

You'll get an email when there's a security-related action taken on your account (for example, a password change). However, you may also get these notifications by text. Learn more about security notifications.