Steam SMS Verification
Receive a Steam text code without tying your main number to the account.
Steam uses a phone number for account safety. You can add one to your account to help with recovery, to use certain features, and to get Steam Guard codes by text instead of email. Some actions, such as trading or the market, may ask for extra checks.
SMS Activate rents you a number to receive the Steam text. It shows on your dashboard along with the code. Your wallet is charged when the number is issued, and an activation with no SMS in 20 minutes is refunded.
How to verify Steam in 5 steps
- 1Open the dashboard and choose Steam from the service list.
- 2Pick a country and buy a number.
- 3Enter the number in your Steam account settings.
- 4Wait for the code on your dashboard.
- 5Enter the code, then set up the Steam mobile app for long-term safety.
What Steam does with the number
A number on the account is a recovery tool. If you forget your password or lose access, Steam can text a code to it. For that reason, a Steam account worth keeping should have a number you will still own a year from now.
Steam also uses the number with its mobile app and Steam Guard. Setting up the app is better than SMS for everyday safety, and it does not depend on a phone number staying active.
Where a rented number is fine
A rented number suits a short check: confirming a new test account, trying a feature, or getting a one-time code when your own SIM is not available. It does not suit an account with a library, trade items, or a wallet balance.
Steam may also limit how often the same number can be used across accounts, so one number cannot be spread over many accounts. This is Steam's own rule.
What can go wrong
Steam can refuse numbers it considers risky, or say that a number is already in use. If it does, cancel after the first two minutes and try a different number or country.
We cannot promise that Steam will accept a specific number. That decision is on their side and can change. Never share your Steam login or codes with anyone, including anyone who contacts you offering to help.
Price and refunds
Steam numbers usually cost a few cents to a little over a dollar depending on country and stock. Codes normally arrive within a minute.
Your wallet is charged when you place the order. If no SMS arrives inside 20 minutes, it is refunded to your wallet. Your dashboard shows the cancellation rules for your order.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a rented number for an account with games?
No. Use a number you will keep, and set up the Steam mobile app for codes.
Why does Steam say the number is already in use?
Steam limits one number across accounts. Try a different number.
Can I get Steam Guard codes by SMS on a rented number later?
Not reliably. The number will not stay yours.
What if no SMS arrives?
The order is refunded to your wallet after 20 minutes.
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