Why would you need to change your mobile number on Facebook?
There are a few main reasons why someone might need to update their mobile number on their Facebook account:
- You got a new phone number.
- You changed mobile carriers and got assigned a new number.
- You want to use a different phone number for your Facebook account.
- Your old number was compromised and you want to increase security.
Changing your mobile number will allow Facebook to send you notifications and security codes to your new, correct number moving forward. It’s an important update to make if your phone number has changed for any reason.
How to change your mobile number on Facebook
Changing your mobile number on Facebook only takes a few steps. Here is the process:
- Login to Facebook on a desktop browser or mobile browser. You cannot change your number in the Facebook mobile app.
- Click on the down arrow in the top right and go to “Settings”.
- In the left sidebar, click “Mobile”.
- Under “Mobile Number”, click “Edit” next to your number.
- Enter your new phone number and click “Save Changes”.
Once you save your new number, Facebook will send a 6-digit confirmation code to your new phone number via text message.
Enter the confirmation code
After you enter your new number in settings, Facebook will text a 6-digit confirmation code to that number. Here’s what to do next:
- Go back to Facebook settings and refresh the page if needed.
- Under “Mobile Number”, you’ll see a box that says “Confirm your number”.
- Enter the 6-digit code they texted you and click “Continue”.
This will confirm your new phone number with Facebook. You will also get the option to review recent emails and login locations to ensure security.
Changing your number removes 2FA authentication
One important thing to note is that changing your mobile number will remove two-factor authentication from your account.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security that requires you to enter a code from your phone whenever you log in from a new device. So if you had 2FA enabled, you will need to set it up again after changing your number.
Here’s how to re-enable 2FA after changing your mobile number on Facebook:
- Go to Facebook Settings.
- Click “Security and Login” in the left sidebar.
- Under “Use Two-Factor Authentication”, click “Edit”.
- Select “Set Up Two-Factor Authentication” and follow prompts.
It only takes a minute to re-enable 2FA. It’s highly recommended to keep this extra security for your Facebook account.
Important: Update your number everywhere else
After you change your mobile number on Facebook, an important next step is to update your new number everywhere else you use it. Some examples include:
- Your contacts and address book
- Important accounts like banking, insurance, utility bills, etc.
- Other social media accounts
- Retail accounts, delivery apps, and anywhere else saved
Taking the time to update your mobile number everywhere will ensure you don’t miss any important calls, messages, or notifications. It may take some time, but it’s worth the effort for security and convenience.
Troubleshooting problems changing your Facebook mobile number
In most cases, changing your mobile number on Facebook is quick and easy. But here are some troubleshooting tips if you run into any issues:
Didn’t receive the confirmation code?
First, make sure you entered the correct mobile number with the right country code. If it’s 100% correct, try these steps:
- Wait a few minutes and check your phone again for the text.
- Make sure your phone has cell service or try a different phone.
- Double check that Facebook has the right number on file in settings.
- Tap “Resend Code” if the option is available.
If you still don’t get the confirmation text, you’ll need to contact Facebook support for help resolving the issue.
Number change failed and won’t save
Sometimes the number change gets rejected by Facebook and won’t save. Some things to try:
- Refresh the page and try saving again.
- Double check you entered the number correctly.
- Try changing the number on desktop instead of mobile.
- Make sure your new phone number isn’t already in use on another Facebook account.
If it continues to fail, reach out to Facebook support. There may be an issue if the number is linked to different accounts.
Two-factor authentication isn’t working
If your 2FA isn’t sending codes after changing your number, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure Facebook has the correct, new number on file.
- Check that your 2FA method in settings is listed as “Text Message”.
- Try disabling and re-enabling 2FA using your new number.
- Verify your phone can receive texts normally.
You may need to remove 2FA and set it up again from scratch with your new mobile number. Contact Facebook if you continue having issues getting 2FA codes.
Get help from Facebook support
If you encounter any other errors or roadblocks when trying to change your mobile number on Facebook, your best bet is to contact Facebook support directly for help.
Here are some ways to get assistance from Facebook:
- Go to the Facebook Help Center and search for your specific issue.
- Use the on-site chat widget to message a live person.
- Find the Support Inbox link at the bottom of Facebook to email support.
- Submit a request using Facebook’s help form.
Facebook’s automated bots can solve some issues. But you can ask to be connected to a live representative if needed.
Having trouble getting help? Keep trying! Persistence pays off when dealing with Facebook support.
Conclusion
Changing your mobile number on Facebook is easy – simply update it in your account settings. Just be sure to enter the confirmation code sent to your new number, re-enable two-factor authentication for security, and update your number everywhere else it’s saved.
Let Facebook support help if you run into any trouble during the number change process. Keeping your contact information current ensures you get all important texts and notifications from Facebook.