You can change your TextNow number directly in the app or on the website
TextNow lets you change your phone number whenever you want, and the process takes just a few minutes. You do this through your account settings, not by contacting support. The new number is assigned immediately, though you may see a brief delay before it works for incoming calls and texts.
Whether you're on iOS, Android, or using TextNow on a computer, the steps are nearly identical. You'll need to be logged into your account and have access to your current phone or device. TextNow doesn't charge a fee to change your number, though if you're on a paid plan, the change applies to your current subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Open TextNow, go to Settings, find the Phone Number section, and select the option to change your number.
- TextNow assigns you a new number from available options in your area code or a code you choose.
- Your old number stops working immediately after you confirm the change, so tell your contacts your new number first.
- If you're on a paid plan, your subscription continues with the new number at no extra cost.
- You can change your number as many times as you want, but TextNow may limit how often you do this if it detects abuse.
How to change your number on the TextNow app
On your phone, open the TextNow app and tap the gear icon or menu button to enter Settings. Look for an option labeled "Phone Number," "My Number," or "Account" — the exact wording varies slightly between iOS and Android. Tap that option and you should see a button that says "Change Number" or "Get a New Number."
TextNow will show you available numbers, usually starting with numbers in your current area code. You can browse the list or search for a specific area code if you want a number from a different region. Once you pick a number, TextNow asks you to confirm the change. After you confirm, your new number is active immediately, and your old number is released back into TextNow's pool.
How to change your number on the TextNow website
Go to textnow.com and log into your account. Click on your profile icon or avatar in the top right corner, then select "Settings" or "Account Settings." Find the section for your phone number — it may be labeled "My Number" or "Phone Number Settings."
Click the button to change or update your number. TextNow displays available numbers, usually filtered by your current area code first. Select the number you want, confirm the change, and your new number takes effect right away. The website method works the same way as the app, so use whichever is more convenient for you.
What happens to your old number after you change it
Your old TextNow number stops working the moment you confirm the change. Any texts or calls sent to that number will not reach you. This is why you should tell your contacts your new number before you make the switch, or give them a heads-up that you're about to change it.
TextNow releases your old number back into circulation, so someone else may get it later. If you realize you made a mistake right after changing your number, you can change it again immediately — TextNow does not force you to wait between changes, though the company may restrict your account if you change numbers very frequently in a short period.
Choosing an area code for your new number
When you change your number, TextNow shows available numbers in your current area code by default. If you want a number from a different area code, look for a search or filter option that lets you enter a specific code. This is useful if you're moving, if you want to keep a number from where you used to live, or if you prefer a code that matches where your contacts are located.
TextNow's available numbers vary by area code and change frequently. If you don't see the specific area code you want, try again later — new numbers are added regularly. You're not locked into any particular area code; you can change your number again anytime if a different code becomes available.
Changing your number if you're on a paid TextNow plan
If you pay for a TextNow plan, changing your number does not affect your subscription or cost. Your plan continues with your new number, and you keep the same features and minutes you had before. You don't need to do anything special or contact TextNow — just change your number through Settings as usual, and your plan automatically applies to the new number.
If you have any credits or minutes remaining on your account, those carry over to your new number as well. Your billing date and renewal schedule stay the same. The only thing that changes is the phone number itself.
Troubleshooting if you can't change your number
If the "Change Number" option is grayed out or missing, make sure you're logged into your account and that the app or website is fully updated. On phones, close the TextNow app completely and reopen it. On the website, try a different browser or clear your browser cache.
If you've changed your number many times in a short period, TextNow may temporarily restrict further changes to prevent abuse. In that case, wait a few days before trying again. If the option remains unavailable after a few days, or if you see an error message, contact TextNow support through the app or website — they can tell you whether your account has a restriction and how long it lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my old TextNow number if I change my mind?
No. Once you confirm a number change, your old number is released immediately and you cannot get it back. If you change your number by mistake, you can pick a different new number right away, but your original number is gone. Think through your choice before confirming.
Do I lose my texts and call history when I change my number?
No. Your message history, contacts, and call logs stay in your account. Only the phone number itself changes. Anyone who has your old number will not be able to reach you, but your account data remains the same.
How long does it take for my new number to work?
Your new number is usually active within seconds, though incoming calls and texts may take a few minutes to route correctly. If someone tries to call or text you right after you change your number and it doesn't go through, ask them to try again in a few minutes. Outgoing calls and texts from your new number typically work right away.
Can I change my number to a specific number I want?
No. TextNow assigns numbers from its available pool — you cannot request a custom number or reserve a specific one. You can browse the available numbers in your chosen area code and pick from what TextNow offers, but you cannot choose an arbitrary number.
What if I change my number and then want to change it again?
You can change your number as many times as you want. Go back to Settings, select your phone number, and pick a new one. TextNow does not charge for this. However, if you change your number very frequently in a short time span, TextNow may temporarily lock you out of further changes to prevent misuse of the feature.