You bought a temporary number, typed it into an app, and now you need the code. This guide shows exactly where the SMS appears on GetVerifyCode, how long to wait, and what to do if it never shows up.
Quick Answer
- OTPs sent to virtual numbers appear in the GetVerifyCode activation inbox.
- You have a ~20-minute window to receive your SMS code.
- Multiple SMS can arrive within the same window.
- If no SMS arrives, your unused credits will be automatically refunded.
- Developers can use API polling to check for incoming messages.
- The number appears immediately after you confirm; you can cancel early.
Table of Contents
- Step by step: find and copy your code
- Reading the message
- More than one SMS in the same window
- For developers: polling via API
- Nothing showing? Troubleshooting
- Related country guides
- Is this legal?
- FAQ
Step by step: find and copy your code
- Sign in or create an account at getverifycode.com/start.
- Top up your wallet using crypto or card; see getverifycode.com/pricing.
- Pick the service and country, then confirm the quote.
- The number shows immediately. Copy it in the exact format the app expects (country code, E.164).
- Request the SMS in the app.
- Open the activation inbox and wait. Most codes land in seconds to a few minutes, within the ~20-minute window.
- Copy the code and paste it before the app's own code expires.
- If nothing arrives, cancel or let the window end, and the unused credit refunds to your wallet automatically.
Reading the message
When you receive your OTP, it may come from a sender name or a short code. The code length is usually between 4 to 8 digits. Ignore any links included in the SMS; just copy the digits. Each code is one-time and usually expires within minutes on the app's side.
More than one SMS in the same window
Sometimes, you may receive multiple SMS messages within the same window. This can occur if you request a new OTP or if the service sends multiple codes for verification. You do not need to make a second purchase for additional SMS within the same activation window.
For developers: polling via API
Developers can utilize API polling to check for incoming messages programmatically. Here’s how to set it up:
- Access the API documentation on getverifycode.com/developers.
- Implement polling logic in your application to regularly check for new messages associated with your virtual number. Poll every few seconds and stop at the window end. Handle cancellation appropriately. For more details, see our SMS verification API guide.
Nothing showing? Troubleshooting
If you do not see your OTP in the activation inbox, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check Format: Ensure that the phone number format is correct and matches the requirements of the service you are using.
- Wait a full minute, then use the app's 'resend' once (some apps throttle repeated requests).
- Try an Alternate Method: If the service offers alternative verification methods, consider using them.
- See Didn't receive a verification code? 12 fixes for additional solutions.
- If the app rejects the number outright, see This phone number can't be used for verification.
- If it says the number is taken, see Phone number already used.
- For when to use a fresh number, see Reuse vs fresh temporary numbers.
- For how refunds work, see SMS holds, timeouts and credit returns.
- Delivery depends on the app and whether it accepts virtual numbers, so trying another country or service route can help.
- Need the same number for days (for example a later login check)? Use Rentals.
Related country guides
For more information on using temporary numbers for account recovery while traveling, see our travel account recovery guide and our QA and staging guide.
New to one-time codes? Read what a verification code is and how SMS codes work.
Is this legal?
Using a virtual number to receive your own verification codes is generally lawful for privacy, travel and QA testing, but each app's terms and your local law still apply, and some services block virtual numbers. This isn't legal advice. Read Are temporary phone numbers legal? and our acceptable use policy; fraud, fake accounts and ban evasion are not allowed.
Live prices and routes: Get a temporary number to check OTP
FAQ
FAQ
A temporary virtual number is a phone number that can receive SMS messages, allowing you to verify accounts while maintaining your privacy.
You typically have a ~20-minute window to receive your OTP. If it does not arrive in that time, you can cancel your order, and any unused credits will be returned.
If you do not receive your SMS before the timeout, your unused credits will be automatically refunded to your wallet.
Yes, you can use multiple virtual numbers for different services, but ensure you follow the acceptable use policy.
Developers can use API polling to programmatically check for incoming messages associated with their virtual number.
Check the format of the phone number or try an alternate verification method. If issues persist, open a ticket from the dashboard.
No, GetVerifyCode receives SMS only; choose the SMS option in the app.
