Phone verification
This article is for consumers. Phone verification sends a one-time code to your phone via text. Enter the code to confirm the number is reachable. Codes can take up to 30 seconds to arrive on some carriers.
In short: A 6-digit code arrives by text. Enter it on the form. If it doesn’t arrive within a minute, request a resend.
What this is for
The agency wants to confirm that the phone number you entered is actually yours and is reachable. Phone verification:
- Helps prevent fake or mistyped phone numbers
- Confirms you can be reached for follow-up
- Reduces “I gave a fake number” lead-quality issues for the agency
It’s a one-time check — you don’t have to verify again unless you change your phone number.
How verification works
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The form prompts you to verify your phone number.
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SALT sends a 6-digit code to your phone via text message.
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Within a minute (usually a few seconds), the text arrives.
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Enter the code on the form.
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The form confirms verification and lets you continue.
When the code doesn’t arrive
A few things can delay or block the text:
- Carrier delays — some carriers (especially smaller regional ones) can delay messages from automated senders by 30 seconds or more
- Spam filtering — your carrier’s spam filter occasionally blocks shortcode messages; rare but it happens
- Wrong number entered — confirm the number on the form matches the phone you have
- Phone in airplane mode — verify you have signal
- Number doesn’t accept SMS — landlines and some VoIP numbers can’t receive SMS
If after a minute you don’t see the code:
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Confirm the number is correct on the form.
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Check your phone has signal.
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Use the resend option on the form.
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Wait another minute. If still nothing, try the alternative path the form offers (email verification, agent contact, etc.) if available.
Will I be charged?
Receiving a verification text is free to you on virtually all U.S. plans (no charge for inbound SMS). Some international plans may charge — check with your carrier if you’re outside the U.S.
If you’re on a prepaid plan with strict limits, the verification text counts as one inbound message.
After verification
Once your phone is verified, the form continues. The verification is recorded on your submission so the agency knows your number is legit.
You don’t need to re-verify on subsequent forms from the same agency unless you provide a different phone number.
Common questions
The code expired before I could enter it. Codes are typically valid for a few minutes. Request a fresh one and enter it quickly.
I’m getting the code on the wrong device. The text goes to whatever phone matches the number on the form. If you entered your home landline by mistake, edit the number on the form to your mobile and request a new code.
Can I skip phone verification? Generally no — the agency requires it to ensure they can reach you. If you object, contact the agency directly to discuss alternatives.
Why does the agency need this? Phone verification cuts down on fraudulent or mistyped numbers. For the agency, it’s the difference between “I have a usable lead” and “this number doesn’t work.”