Help! My Phone Number was recycled, how can I get it back?

Can I get my old number back?
We apologize for the inconvenience a situation like this may cause. We do not have the ability to assign or restore specific phone numbers/area codes - if your phone number has been released for any reason, you would need to choose a new phone number for the account.

About TextNow numbers
When you sign up for TextNow, on either the app or online, we ask you to input a US or Canadian area code. We then show you a list of approximately ten numbers in that area code you can assign to your TextNow account. You can release the number and reassign yourself another one through the app once every fifteen days.
We have numbers available in most area codes within the US and Canada. 

When do numbers get released?
When you pick a number for your account after you first create it, if that number is not used to text or call another number it will expire within the first twenty-four hours of activation. You don't have to text or call another TextNow customer - you can text or call any number within the US or Canada to prevent expiration.
There's no hard-and-fast rule as to how long a number can stay inactive before it's revoked. There are a number of factors that go into it, and each customer is weighted differently based on usage patterns. We send you a warning message before the number is revoked to give you a chance to keep it active.

Do I get a warning message?
Yes, we send a warning message before we revoke your number.

What do I do next?
Once a number is unassigned, you are more than welcome to pick up another one. Simply enter your preferred area code when prompted by the TextNow app and we will assign a new number to your account!

How can I prevent my number from being recycled?
Luckily, that part's easy! If you call or text at least once a day from your free TextNow number, it will keep the number active indefinitely.
You can also purchase Ad Free+, which (along with other features) will lock your number to your account for as long as you have the subscription.