Frequently asked questions
Straight answers for sellers and small businesses about how InboxNumber works today.
Why would my business need a foreign phone number?
Many platforms, marketplaces and payment services ask for a phone number in the country where you sell or register. If you're based elsewhere, a US, Canadian, UK or Australian number from InboxNumber lets you receive their codes and messages for the business accounts you own, without a local SIM or office.
Can I use the number to verify my seller or business accounts?
Yes, for accounts you own. Many platforms send verification codes by SMS, and those codes appear in your dashboard. Some services don't accept virtual numbers, so we can't promise that a specific platform will send codes to your number.
Can customers contact my business on this number?
Yes. Customers can text your InboxNumber number and you read their messages in your dashboard, which makes it a simple local contact line for your store.
Do I need a company, a SIM card or an address in that country?
No. You don't need a SIM card, a local address or a phone. You only need an InboxNumber account, and you read your messages in any browser. Check each platform's own rules for business registration.
What is InboxNumber?
InboxNumber is a web service that rents virtual phone numbers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia. SMS sent to your number appear in your InboxNumber inbox, and you can use it from anywhere in the world.
Which countries are available?
United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia. Numbers are limited, and the Buy page shows if a country is sold out.
How much does a number cost?
Per month, in USD: United States $6.40, Canada $6.40, United Kingdom $6.45, Australia $19.50. There is no setup fee, and the exact amount is shown before you pay.
Will my number work with every website or app?
No. InboxNumber numbers are virtual numbers that work over the internet, not mobile SIM numbers. Some messaging apps, banks and payment services reject virtual numbers, so we can't guarantee that a specific service will send SMS to your number. Check a platform's rules before you rely on it.
What should I do if a code doesn't arrive?
First, check that you entered the number with the right country code and that it hasn't expired in your dashboard. Wait a minute and refresh your inbox, then use the platform's "resend code" option once. If nothing arrives, that service may not send codes to virtual numbers; try its other verification options, such as email. If you think the problem is on our side, contact us with your number and the time you requested the code.
Can I use InboxNumber to create many accounts?
No. InboxNumber is for accounts that you or your business own and run. Creating fake or bulk accounts, or getting around a platform's rules, is not allowed.
How can I pay?
From your InboxNumber balance, or directly with cryptocurrency. You top up your balance with crypto, from $5 to $500. We don't accept cards.
Do I need an account?
Yes. Sign up with your email address or with Google. Your numbers and messages are tied to your account.
How long does a number last?
Each purchase covers one month. Your dashboard shows the expiry date. To keep the number, start a new checkout before it expires.
What happens if my crypto payment is short?
If less than the full amount arrives, what was received is added to your InboxNumber balance. You can top up the rest or use it later.
What if numbers sell out after I pay?
The full amount you paid stays in your InboxNumber balance, so you can buy as soon as numbers are available again.
Can I get a refund?
All purchases are final and unused number time is non-refundable. If something doesn't work, contact us and we'll help fix it.
Who can read my messages?
Only you. We don't read, analyse or share message content, and messages are deleted when your number expires.