How to change your TextNow number

You can change your TextNow number directly in the app or on the website. Open TextNow, go to Settings, select your phone number or account settings, and look for an option to change or swap your number. TextNow typically lets you change your number once every 30 days, though this window may vary. The process takes a few minutes and your new number becomes active immediately.

If you're using the free version of TextNow, you have access to the same number-change feature as paid users. The main difference is that paid subscribers (TextNow Plus) get priority support if something goes wrong during the change. Either way, the steps are the same.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your TextNow number through Settings in the app or on the website without contacting support.
  • TextNow limits number changes to once every 30 days to prevent abuse of the service.
  • Your new number activates right away, and your old number becomes unavailable to you within minutes.
  • Contacts who have your old TextNow number will not be able to reach you unless you tell them your new number.
  • You cannot reserve or hold a specific number before changing — TextNow assigns available numbers randomly.

Step-by-step process on the mobile app

Start by opening the TextNow app on your phone. Tap the three-line menu icon (hamburger menu) in the top left or bottom right, depending on your device. Look for Settings or Account Settings — the exact label varies slightly between iOS and Android.

Once in Settings, find the section labeled "Phone Number," "My Number," or "Account." Tap it, then look for a button that says "Change Number," "Swap Number," or "Get a New Number." Tap that button. TextNow will show you a list of available numbers organized by area code. Select the area code you want, and TextNow will display several numbers you can choose from. Pick one and confirm. Your new number is now active.

Changing your number on the website

Go to textnow.com and sign in to your account. Click on your profile icon or avatar in the top right corner, then select Settings or Account Settings. Look for a section about your phone number or account information.

Find the option to change your number — it may be labeled "Change Number," "Swap Number," or "Get a New Number." Click it. You'll see a list of available numbers sorted by area code. Choose your preferred area code, select a number from the options shown, and confirm the change. Your new number takes effect immediately, and you'll see it reflected in your account.

What happens to your old number

When you change your number, your old TextNow number is released back into the pool of available numbers. Other TextNow users may be assigned that number in the future. You lose access to it completely — you cannot get it back later, even if you change your number again.

Any messages or calls sent to your old number after the change will not reach you. If people have your old number saved in their contacts, they'll need your new number to reach you. TextNow does not forward calls or messages from your old number to your new one, so tell your contacts about the change before switching.

The 30-day waiting period between changes

TextNow enforces a 30-day cooldown between number changes. This means once you change your number, you must wait at least 30 days before you can change it again. The timer starts the moment your new number becomes active.

If you try to change your number before 30 days have passed, TextNow will show you a message saying you must wait until a specific date. This policy exists to prevent users from cycling through numbers rapidly, which could disrupt service for others or be used to evade contact.

Choosing an area code for your new number

When you change your number, TextNow lets you pick the area code. This is useful if you want a number that matches your current location or a place you have ties to. Some people choose an area code from their home state even if they've moved, so contacts recognize the number as local to them.

The available numbers within each area code are assigned randomly — you cannot request a specific number or a vanity number (like one that spells a word). TextNow shows you several options within your chosen area code, and you pick one from that list. If none of the options appeal to you, you can select a different area code and see what numbers are available there.

Troubleshooting number change problems

If the change button is grayed out or missing, you likely have a pending change or are within the 30-day waiting period. Check your Settings page — it should tell you when you're may be able to access to change your number again.

If you changed your number but it's not showing up in your account, try signing out and signing back in. Sometimes the app needs to refresh to display the new number. If the problem persists after a few minutes, restart the app or clear its cache. If you're still having trouble after restarting, contact TextNow support through the app — tap the menu, find Help or Support, and describe what's happening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my TextNow number more than once a month?

No. TextNow enforces a 30-day waiting period between changes. Once you change your number, you must wait at least 30 days before you can change it again. The timer starts when your new number becomes active.

Will my contacts be able to reach me on my old number after I change it?

No. Your old number is released immediately and may be assigned to another user. Calls and messages sent to your old number will not reach you. You need to share your new number with your contacts before or right after you change it.

Can I pick a specific number or a vanity number?

No. TextNow assigns available numbers randomly within the area code you choose. You can see several options and pick one from that list, but you cannot request a specific number or one that spells a word.

What if I change my number by mistake?

You cannot undo a number change, but you can change your number again after 30 days have passed. If you need to revert to a previous number, that number may no longer be available since TextNow releases old numbers back into circulation.

Do I lose my TextNow account or messages when I change my number?

No. Your account, message history, and contacts stay the same. Only your phone number changes. Your old messages remain in your account under your new number.