To change your TextNow phone number, you must release your current number inside the TextNow app and then choose a new one; there is no web-based or support alternative documented by TextNow. This is the only supported method to change TextNow phone number, and once you release a number, it cannot be restored.
How to change your TextNow phone number: A brief overview
TextNow is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). TextNow supports exactly one way to change your number: releasing the current number from the app and picking a new one from the available options. The company’s help documentation does not provide a browser-based flow, and TextNow support cannot assign or restore a specific number after it has been released. If you want a fresh number for privacy, to reduce spam, or simply to start over, the release-and-replace process is the only path. Reasons to change include relocation, rebranding, or switching carriers.
Steps to release and change your number in the app
You can complete the entire change from within the TextNow app on your phone. Follow these steps in order:
- Open the TextNow app.
- Tap the Menu button.
- Tap Settings.
- Tap Account.
- Tap TextNow Number.
- Tap the three vertical dots in the top right-hand corner.
- Tap Release Number to complete the change.
After you release the number, the app will prompt you to select a new one. You can enter your preferred area code when prompted, and TextNow will show you available numbers to choose from.
What happens after you release your number
Once you release your TextNow number, the change is final. TextNow states that it cannot restore the old number or the specific area code after release, so you must choose a new number for your account. The new number you pick becomes active on your TextNow account, and you can continue using the app as before. If you are updating your contact information across services, remember that changing your TextNow number also means updating phone number on apps and accounts that use it, such as social media profiles, banking apps, and two-factor authentication settings. Inform your contacts about the new number. Update online accounts with the new number. Monitor calling and messaging after the change to ensure everything works correctly.
Limitations to know before you change
Before you release your current number, understand the limitations that TextNow documents:
- TextNow cannot restore a specific phone number or area code after it has been released.
- Once a number is released, you must pick a new number for the account.
- There is no documented website flow for changing an existing number; the only supported method is through the app.
- If your number has already been released or recycled, TextNow cannot assign or restore that specific number or area code.
These limitations mean you should be certain before releasing your current number, because there is no way to get it back. Backup important messages before changing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the same released TextNow number be recovered?
No. TextNow says it does not have the ability to assign or restore specific phone numbers or area codes after they have been released.
Is there a documented iPhone or Android difference?
No. The retrieved TextNow support pages do not give separate iPhone or Android instructions for changing a number.
Is there a documented web method?
No. TextNow’s help documentation only describes the app-based flow for changing your number, and the website article repeats the same app steps.
Will my contacts be notified if I change my TextNow phone number?
No.
Is there a cost associated with changing my TextNow phone number?
May be a fee depending on subscription plan.
