Trying to join Match.com but stuck at the phone number step? You’re not the only one.
Whether it’s about privacy or the code just won’t come through, that one little box can be a big roadblock. And naturally, people start wondering — can you use Match.com without a phone number?
In this guide, we’ll break down what Match really requires, why it asks for your number, and how you can still sign up without using your personal one.
Does Match.com Work Without a Phone Number?
Let’s get straight to it — not really.
Match.com almost always requires a phone number when you’re signing up. It’s not just for show — they actually send you a code by text, and you have to enter it to move forward. If you don’t complete this step, you’re basically stuck.
Why? It’s all about security. The phone number helps Match cut down on fake accounts, bots, and scammers. It also makes sure people don’t make a bunch of profiles with different emails.
But here’s the catch: not all phone numbers work.
If you’re thinking about using Google Voice, TextNow, or any kind of internet-based number — it probably won’t work. Match’s system usually blocks VoIP and virtual numbers, so even if you type it in, the code might never arrive.
Bottom line? Match.com expects a real mobile number — one that can receive regular text messages (SMS). No shortcuts, no skip button.
But don’t worry — if you’re not comfortable using your personal number, or if you just want to keep things private, there are other ways to get through this step. Let’s talk about those next.
Common Problems with Match.com Phone Verification
If you’ve tried to verify your phone on Match.com and hit a wall, you're definitely not alone. A lot of people run into the same frustrating issues, and most of them sound something like this:
- “I didn’t get the code.”
This is the most common one. You type in your number, wait for the text… and nothing shows up. You try again, still nothing. It’s frustrating, and there's no clear reason why it happens. - “The code came, but it doesn’t work.”
Sometimes the SMS does arrive, but when you enter it, Match says it’s wrong or expired — even if you typed it in correctly. It can feel like you're going in circles. - “Phone number cannot be verified.”
This usually happens if you’re using a VoIP number like Google Voice or an internet-based texting app. Match's system tends to block these completely. - “This number is already in use.”
If your number has ever been used on a different Match account (even one you forgot about), it may not let you verify again. - Carrier or region issues.
In some cases, the problem has nothing to do with you. Certain mobile carriers, especially smaller or prepaid ones, might block the code. International users also sometimes face delays or never receive the code at all. - No way to skip it.
The toughest part? You can’t just move on. Match won’t let you access most features without verifying your number — and there’s no backup option like email or a phone call.
So yeah, something that should take 30 seconds can turn into a major headache. But don’t worry — in the next section, we’ll go over a few ways to work around these issues and still get verified.
How to Use Match.com If You Don’t Want to Use Your Real Number
If you’re not comfortable giving out your personal number — or your code just won’t come through — don’t worry, you’ve got options.
While Match.com doesn’t officially offer an alternative, here are some real-world solutions people have tried, including one that works reliably through DatingZest.
Here’s how it works:
- Go to DatingZest’s Match.com phone verification page
You’ll find real, SMS-enabled mobile numbers made just for sites like Match.com. - Choose your Match.com number from the list (U.S, UK)
These numbers are not public or reused VoIP numbers. They’re real, sim-based, private, and SMS-ready. - Enter the number on Match.com
When prompted to verify, copy and paste the DatingZest number into the field. - Get the code and finish verification
Match will send a code. You’ll see it in your DatingZest inbox. Copy it over and you're done.
Match often blocks VoIP numbers and public texting apps, but DatingZest provides real mobile numbers that work with Match’s system.
If you are banned from Tinder, Hinge, or any other Match group, you can file a BBB Complaint against them.
Other Methods That You Can Try
1. Google Voice or TextNow
These are free and easy, but they rarely work. Match.com usually blocks these numbers or never sends the code at all.
2. Using a friend or family member’s number
This can work — the code goes to their phone, and you’re in. But their number becomes tied to your account, which can cause problems later (especially if they want to sign up too).
3. Buying a prepaid SIM or burner phone
Some users buy a cheap prepaid SIM just to receive the code. It works if it’s a real mobile number, but it takes more effort and might not be worth it unless you’re really stuck.
What to Do If Verification Still Fails
Tried everything and still stuck? Don’t give up just yet — here are a few things you can try before walking away:
- Double-check your number. Make sure you entered it correctly, including the country code. A small typo can block the whole process.
- Try a different mobile number. If your number isn’t working, use a friend’s (with permission) or grab a temporary mobile number from DatingZest — it’s a quick fix that’s worked for many.
- Switch platforms. If you’re using the app and things aren’t working, try the Match.com website on a browser — sometimes the mobile app just bugs out.
- Contact Match.com support. There’s no phone support, but you can send them a message through their help page. It’s not instant, but they may be able to reset the process or check if something’s blocking your number.
Conclusion
Match.com’s phone verification might feel like a small step, but when it doesn’t work, it can totally block your experience. The truth is — you can’t skip it. It’s required, and it’s there for good reasons like safety and spam control.
But that doesn’t mean you have to give up your personal number or hit a dead end.
Free VoIP apps rarely work, and waiting around won’t fix it — but DatingZest gives you a simple, private way to get verified and get going.
Now you're ready to move past the code… and into the conversation that actually matters.
Liam
I have a question to ask about Match.com banning. Firstly I think the reason I am as banned is because I added a second profile by mistake. It as never explained to me. My question is what about your email address? Can’t Match track that and ban you even
If you have a new no. from datingzest?
Hi Angela,
They can track because it’s same email with different phone number, usually if both profiles matches similarity. However, it depends on how lucky you are.
Best regards
How do I use the service with a US phone number?? I can’t verify the number
Select US phone number and you should be good. Do a reinstall of Match app please, and you should be able to receive the code.
Best
Does this actually work? Do they track an IP address?
Hi John,
Yes, it works great. Changing IP Address is easy. You can unplug your router for 10mins, or other way is by using 5G instead your WIFI.
Best
Hello, i notice that Match always bans every new account i make right away, despite doing the entire secure folder method, and then, after i submit a match help to unban it, they always take exactly 6 days to email me that it was unbanned, and usually this means i can use it for 1 or 2 weeks before the second ban, after which point i can repeat the process of emailing them and waiting the 6 days for the next unban, up to 3 total bans before they won’t unban it anymore, in which case i asap abandon the accnt and make the next account and repeat the process all over again. however, this time around, the 2nd ban came in less than a day after the 1st unban. what did i do wrong that resulted in a fast ban that soon? i’m spending more time waiting each 6-day period for the unban email than i am on using Match itself. what could have banned me again that fast? another 6 day wait, and 1 step closer to the 3rd and final ban before making the next accnt.