TextNow lets you change your number, but the process depends on which version you use

TextNow is a free texting and calling app that gives you a real phone number you can use without a carrier contract. If you want a different number — because you like the area code better, you're starting fresh, or you just want a change — you can swap it out. The steps are straightforward, but they work differently on the free version versus the paid plan, and there's a waiting period involved.

The free version of TextNow lets you change your number once every 30 days. The paid plan (TextNow Plus) removes that limit, so you can change it more often if you need to. Either way, the change happens when ready once you confirm it, and your old number becomes unavailable to you.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your TextNow number from the app settings menu under "Phone Number," and the change takes effect when ready.
  • Free TextNow accounts can change their number once per 30 days; TextNow Plus subscribers can change it whenever they want.
  • When you change your number, your old number is released and you cannot get it back, so tell your contacts your new number before you switch.
  • TextNow shows you a list of available numbers organized by area code, so you can pick the region you want before confirming the change.

How to change your number on the TextNow app

Open the TextNow app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Tap "Settings," then scroll down and tap "Phone Number." You'll see your current number displayed at the top.

Tap "Change Number" or the refresh icon next to your number. TextNow will show you a list of available numbers. You can filter by area code — type in the three-digit code for the region you want, and the app will show only numbers from that area. Scroll through the list until you find a number you like, then tap it to select it.

TextNow will ask you to confirm the change. Read the warning carefully: once you confirm, your old number is gone permanently and you cannot recover it. If you're sure, tap "Change Number" to complete the swap. Your new number appears in the app when ready and you can start using it right away.

What happens to your old number when you change it

Your old TextNow number is released back into the pool of available numbers and can be assigned to someone else. You cannot request it back later, even if you change your mind a few minutes after switching. This is why it's important to tell your contacts your new number before you make the change, or to give them a heads-up that you're about to switch.

If you have important text conversations or call history tied to your old number, take screenshots or save any information you need before you change it. TextNow does not transfer your message history to your new number — you'll start fresh with a blank inbox.

The 30-day waiting period on free accounts

If you use the free version of TextNow, you can change your number once every 30 days. This timer starts the moment you confirm a number change. If you try to change your number again before 30 days have passed, the app will show you a message telling you when you'll be able to change it next.

The paid plan, TextNow Plus, removes this restriction entirely. If you change numbers frequently for work or other reasons, upgrading to Plus might be worth it — you can change your number as often as you want with no waiting period.

Choosing an area code that works for you

When you change your number, TextNow shows you available numbers grouped by area code. You can pick a number from your home state, your current location, or any other area code TextNow supports. The area code doesn't affect how the app works — it's purely about what number people see when you call or text them.

Some people choose an area code that matches where they live so contacts recognize the number as local. Others pick an area code from where they grew up or where they do business. There's no technical reason to pick one over another — it's just about what makes sense for your situation.

Changing your number on the TextNow website

You can also change your number from a web browser if you prefer not to use the app. Go to textnow.com, sign in to your account, and click on your profile icon in the top right corner. Click "Settings," then find "Phone Number" in the menu on the left side.

Click "Change Number" and follow the same steps as the app: filter by area code if you want, pick a number from the list, and confirm the change. The process is identical — your new number takes effect when ready and your old number is released.

What to do before you change your number

Before you hit confirm, make a list of the people and services that have your current TextNow number. This includes friends, family, work contacts, and any apps or websites where you've used your TextNow number for two-factor authentication or account recovery. Text or call these people to let them know you're switching numbers.

For services like banks, email accounts, or social media, you'll need to update your number in the account settings after you change it. Some services may send a verification code to your old number during the update process, so do this while you still have access to your old number if possible — or wait until after the change and use an alternative verification method if the service offers one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my old TextNow number back if I change my mind?

No. Once you change your number, your old number is released and assigned to someone else. TextNow does not hold numbers or allow you to reclaim them later. Make sure you want to change before you confirm.

Do I lose my text messages and call history when I change my number?

Yes. Your message history stays tied to your old number and does not transfer to your new one. If you need to keep any conversations, take screenshots or save the information before you change your number.

How often can I change my TextNow number?

On the free version, once every 30 days. On TextNow Plus, as often as you want with no waiting period. The timer resets each time you make a change.

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

No. Your old number is released and no longer belongs to you. Any texts or calls to that number will not reach you. This is why you should tell your contacts your new number before you switch.

Can I pick any area code I want?

TextNow shows you available numbers by area code, so you can choose from whatever regions have numbers in stock. You cannot request a specific number, only filter by area code and pick from what's available.