LinkedIn Phone Number Already Taken? Here's the Fix

Look, nobody wants to hit a wall when they're just trying to get back into their LinkedIn account. That phone number already taken error? It's annoying, confusing, and honestly, it feels personal. But here's the thing it's usually fixable, and you don't need to panic.

That error pops up when your phone number is already tied to another LinkedIn account. Maybe it's an old profile you forgot about, one you made for a trial, or even a number someone else reused after you let it go. Whatever the reason, it's not a dead end. This guide walks you through every fix, from simple recovery tricks to using a fresh number when nothing else works.

#Quick Answer:

• Check for existing accounts: Your number is likely linked to an old LinkedIn profile.

• Use email for recovery: Prioritize email-based recovery if possible.

• Contact LinkedIn support: For persistent issues, prepare for identity verification.

• Consider a fresh number: Temporary virtual numbers can bypass the already taken error.

• Update details post-recovery: Always add a backup email and review security settings.

#Why Does LinkedIn Say Phone Number Already in Use?

When LinkedIn throws that already in use message at you, it's usually because your number is already attached to another account. It could be one you created years ago, a work profile you forgot about, or even an account someone else set up using your number (accidentally or otherwise).

LinkedIn phone number already taken scenarios happen more often than you'd think. Numbers get recycled. People change carriers. Accounts get abandoned. LinkedIn ties every phone number to a single account for security reasons, so if that number shows up in their system twice, it flags a conflict.

Sometimes it's simpler than you'd expect maybe you just forgot about an old account. Other times, it's a mess of switched SIMs and forgotten passwords. Either way, the fix is usually straightforward once you know where to look.

#How to Fix the LinkedIn Phone Number Already Taken Error

Start with the obvious: try logging into any existing LinkedIn account using that number. If you're in, update the phone number in your settings. If you're locked out, hit the Forgot Password flow and try verifying through email instead. When that fails, you'll need to submit an identity verification request to LinkedIn support.

Here's the full breakdown:

• Attempt Login with the Number: Seriously, try it. You might stumble across an old account you completely forgot existed.

• Use Forgot Password: Click that link on the login page and enter your phone number. See what happens.

• Prioritize Email Recovery: LinkedIn usually offers to send a verification link to your email. This is your fastest route if you still have access to that inbox.

• Recover Email if Needed: Can't get into the email LinkedIn has on file? Recover that first. It's a chain reaction.

• Contact LinkedIn Support for Identity Verification: When email's a dead end, you'll need to go through LinkedIn's support. They'll likely ask for a government ID. This takes time, but it works.

One warning: don't try creating a new account with the same number after hitting this error. It'll just loop you back to the same problem. If you need a fresh start, consider grabbing an instant virtual number instead.

Try a free number first: If you're locked out and need a quick test, grab a free temporary number from SMSPin to see if it works with your LinkedIn recovery flow. No risk, no commitment. 

#LinkedIn SMS Verification Not Received? Here's What to Do

If LinkedIn's SMS code isn't showing up, start with the basics. Check your signal. Make sure you're not accidentally blocking LinkedIn's messages. Sometimes carrier delays or network congestion cause the lag. Give it 5–10 minutes, then request a new code. Still nothing? Switch to email verification or use a recovery code if you've got one.

Checklist for Missing SMS Codes:

• Signal Strength: Make sure you've got decent reception. Obvious, but easy to miss.

• Correct Number & Country Code: Triple-check you've entered everything right, including that country code.

• Spam Filters/Blocked Senders: Peek at your phone's SMS spam folder. LinkedIn's messages sometimes land there.

• Carrier Restrictions: Some carriers block shortcodes by default. A quick call to your provider can confirm this.

• Full SMS Inbox: Yep, a full inbox can block new messages. Clear some space.

• Restart Phone/Toggle Airplane Mode: Sometimes a simple refresh fixes temporary glitches.

• Wait and Retry: After 5–10 minutes, try again. Don't request more than 3 codes in a row LinkedIn might throttle your number.

• Virtual Numbers: If you're using a virtual number, make sure it supports SMS from services like LinkedIn.

#How to Recover Your LinkedIn Account Without a Phone Number

Lost your phone? Switched numbers? No problem as long as you still have access to the email address linked to your LinkedIn account. Start the Forgot Password process, choose the email option, and follow the link. If you're locked out of both, you'll need to go through manual identity verification.

LinkedIn's support team can verify your identity using a government ID and some security questions. This process usually takes 24–72 hours, so be patient. Check your email (including spam) regularly for updates. If you never added an email to your account, recovery gets harder, but it's still possible with persistent support engagement. LinkedIn support may verify your identity with an ID and security questions. If SMS recovery fails, SMSPin can offer temporary numbers for supported verification. 

#Change Your LinkedIn Phone Number During Account Recovery (If You're Locked Out)

Here's the frustrating part: you can't directly change your phone number while you're locked out. You need to verify your identity first either through email or a support ticket. Once you're back in, immediately update your number in the Contact Info section of your profile settings.

LinkedIn doesn't let you swap numbers during a lockout for security reasons. Look for an option like I don't have access to this phone during the recovery flow. If that doesn't appear, submit a support request explaining you need to change numbers and provide whatever identity docs they ask for. After recovery, add a backup email to prevent future lockouts.

#LinkedIn OTP Not Arriving? Common Causes and Fixes

LinkedIn One-Time Passcodes can fail for a bunch of reasons. Your carrier might be blocking shortcodes. Your inbox might be full. The network might just be slow. Start by restarting your phone and toggling airplane mode. If that doesn't work, try requesting the code by calling instead of SMS LinkedIn offers a Call me option in some cases.

Common causes for missing OTPs:

• Carrier Blocking: Your mobile provider might be blocking short-code messages from LinkedIn.

• Do Not Disturb Mode: Make sure your phone isn't set to DND, which can silence or block SMS alerts.

• VoIP/Virtual Numbers: Some virtual numbers aren't compatible with LinkedIn's SMS gateways.

• Temporary Number Issues: Not all temporary number providers reliably deliver OTPs from all services.

• Resend Limit: If you've hit LinkedIn's resend limit, wait at least 30 minutes before trying again.

#Why Your LinkedIn Phone Verification Keeps Failing (And How to Bypass It)

LinkedIn phone verification can fail if the number's been used too many times, gets flagged as virtual, or comes from a restricted country. The bypass? Switch to email verification. If that's not an option, try a fresh number from a different carrier or region.

LinkedIn may temporarily block numbers used on multiple accounts, especially if they suspect misuse. Some countries have limited SMS support for LinkedIn. If you're using a temporary number, make sure it's from a reputable provider known for good SMS delivery. A simple fix can sometimes be trying verification on a different device or browser local caches can cause weird issues.

If your code keeps failing, use a higher-acceptance number: SMSPin's numbers are regularly tested for LinkedIn compatibility. You only pay $0.01+ per code, and if it fails, you get an automatic refund. 

#Can You Use a Temporary or Virtual Number for LinkedIn Verification?

Yes, you can use a temporary or virtual number for LinkedIn verification but it's not guaranteed to work every time. LinkedIn's system sometimes flags numbers from certain virtual pools. SMSPin offers instant virtual phone numbers for verification that are regularly tested for LinkedIn compatibility, and you only pay if the code arrives. That makes it a low-risk way to get past the number already taken or verification failed errors.

Temporary numbers work great for one-time signups, testing integrations, or keeping your personal number private. If you need a number for longer like for ongoing app testing or business accounts you can rent a number for 1 day to 1 month. SMSPin's numbers are issued instantly, and codes arrive in real time. If no code is delivered, you get an automatic refund. This also lets you verify your WhatsApp account with a temporary number, maintaining privacy across platforms.

SMSPin is not affiliated with any app or website. Please follow each app's terms and local regulations.

#What to Do If a Phone Number Blocks Your LinkedIn Account Recovery

If LinkedIn won't let you proceed with recovery because it's tied to a number you no longer have, use the I don't have access to this phone option during the recovery flow. If that's not available, submit a support ticket with proof of identity. LinkedIn's support team can override the phone requirement after verifying you.

Try initiating the Forgot Password flow from a device you've previously logged in on LinkedIn may recognize your device and offer alternative verification methods. If you have a recovery email, use it. LinkedIn often prioritizes email over SMS for recovery. And persistence matters: if one support ticket doesn't work, try again with clearer documentation.

#How to Recover a LinkedIn Account with a Forgotten Password and Phone Verification Issues

This is the double-whammy scenario: you've forgotten your password and can't use your phone. First, try resetting via email. If that fails, use LinkedIn's Can't access your email? link to start a manual identity check. You'll need to provide a government ID and possibly answer security questions about your profile.

LinkedIn's automated recovery tool may ask for your old password or a previous email to help verify your identity. Manual recovery typically takes 1–3 business days, so plan accordingly. During the waiting period, check the email you submitted regularly for follow-up requests. Once recovered, immediately add a backup email and a new, accessible phone number to prevent future lockouts.

#LinkedIn Locked Out? Here's a Full Checklist for Phone Number Recovery

If you're locked out, start with the basics: try logging in from a familiar device, use the Forgot Password link, and check for any old recovery emails. If that fails, work through this checklist:

Recovery Checklist:

• Familiar Device: Try logging in from a computer or phone you've used before.

• Forgot Password Link: Initiate recovery via the Forgot password? link.

• Email Recovery: Prioritize sending recovery links or codes to your registered email.

• I Don't Have Access Option: Look for this specific link during phone verification if you no longer have the number.

• LinkedIn Support Ticket: Submit a detailed request explaining your situation, including any identity verification documents.

• Temporary Number Solution: For new signups or to bypass a persistent number already taken error, a fresh, unused virtual number can work. SMSPin's numbers are pay-per-use and automatically refunded if no code is delivered.

Document every step you take LinkedIn support may ask what you've already tried. If you're locked out of both email and phone, focus on the support ticket path. Avoid creating a new account while you're locked out, as it can complicate recovery of your primary profile.

#Best Practices for LinkedIn Phone Verification

To avoid future LinkedIn phone verification issues, always add a backup email and a recovery phone number to your account. Use a dedicated number for professional accounts, and avoid sharing your SIM with other services. If you're using a temporary number, rent it for a longer window to ensure you keep access during recovery.

Best Practices for Security:

• Backup Email: Always have a current, accessible backup email linked to your LinkedIn account.

• Recovery Phone Number: Keep your recovery phone number updated, ensuring it's one you control long-term.

• Dedicated Numbers: Use a phone number solely for professional accounts, separate from personal or transient numbers.

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Set up 2FA, preferably via an authenticator app (not just SMS), for stronger security.

• Regular Updates: Periodically review and update your recovery options in LinkedIn's security settings.

• Privacy-Focused Solutions: If testing apps or needing SMS verification for global apps without using your private number, consider a temporary or rental number service.

• Rental Numbers for Long-Term Needs: If you're using a virtual number for an extended project or account management, rent it for a period (e.g., 1 day to 1 month) to maintain consistent access.

Need ongoing access? Rent a number for 1 day to 1 month: Perfect for app testing, business accounts, or long-term verification. No SIM required, no monthly contracts. 

#FAQ

Is it legal to use a temporary phone number for LinkedIn verification?

Yes, it's legal as long as you're not violating LinkedIn's Terms of Service. Temporary numbers can be used for legitimate privacy, verification, or testing purposes. However, using them for spam, fraud, or creating fake accounts is against LinkedIn's rules.

Why does my LinkedIn verification code keep failing or not arriving?

Common reasons include carrier blocks on shortcodes, a full SMS inbox, network issues, or LinkedIn flagging the number because of previous use. Try switching to email verification if available, or use another compatible number.

Should I use a one-time number or a rental number for LinkedIn?

It depends on your use case. A one-time number is suitable for a single signup or verification. A rental number stays active for a set period, making it better for ongoing access or multiple verification codes.

What should I NOT use a temporary number for on LinkedIn?

Do not use temporary numbers for fraud, spam, creating fake accounts, or violating LinkedIn's Terms of Service. For long-term account recovery, use a permanent number or another recovery method you can reliably access.

How do I troubleshoot if LinkedIn SMS verification is not received?

First, check your signal and restart your phone. Verify that your number and country code are correct and that your SMS inbox isn't full or filtering messages. If the code still doesn't arrive, try email or another available verification method. If you're using a virtual number, try another compatible number.

Can I recover my LinkedIn account without a phone number?

Yes, depending on your account, you may be able to recover access through your email address or LinkedIn's identity-verification process. Follow LinkedIn's official recovery instructions to see what options are available to you.

What's the easiest way to fix the phone number already taken error?

The number may already be associated with another LinkedIn account. If it's your number, check whether it's linked to an existing account and follow LinkedIn's recovery or account-management options. Otherwise, use a fresh compatible number.