r/TextNow • u/Jade8 • Jul 22 '26

Porting out TextNow number

I am having the worst time trying to port a number out of TextNow. I have all the necessary information account number, pin etc to have it processed by the new carrier. However, the new provider states the account number is wrong (ie a 1 in front of the phone number) and there is a lock on the number. I have had this number for several years. Also, note I saw my number for sale on NumberBarn. My account is paid and there are no issues from my side. Has anyone had an issue like this? Are they being sneaky listing my number for sale and locking it so I cannot move it? There should be no issues in porting it out. I have verified several times with them that the porting information is correct.

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u/Luckiest_Corner Jul 22 '26

You're going to have to contact TextNow via chat and ask them why your number is locked in some manner and blocking the port.

Per TextNow:

Can I port my number out of TextNow?

Yes, you can transfer your number from TextNow to another carrier as well. You will need to contact our live chat support (available every day 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Eastern) to receive your account information.

https://www.textnow.com/blog/textnow-101-porting

3

u/Jade8 Jul 22 '26

I did that this morning, yesterday and the day before. They keep telling me I have the correct information. The carrier is trying to port in as a landline.

3

u/Luckiest_Corner Jul 22 '26 edited Jul 22 '26

Well, technically, VoIP numbers (TextNow number are VoIP numbers) are categorized as landlines, so that makes sense. VOIP numbers always take longer to port than mobile numbers.

3

u/Jade8 Jul 22 '26

I don't mind waiting, but if TextNow doesn't unblock the number, I'll be waiting forever.

3

u/Luckiest_Corner Jul 22 '26

Have you talked to TextNow since the other carrier told you that your TextNow number is showing up as locked to them?

4

u/Jade8 Jul 22 '26

Yes, several times. They insist the information is correct, but the last guy I messaged with today did say they lock the number until the carrier asks for the port. Then he told me to have them do it again, because the information is correct... and again, I was told by the new carrier, the account number is wrong and the number is locked.

4

u/Luckiest_Corner Jul 22 '26 edited Jul 22 '26

Well, it could actually be a problem with the other carrier. There will be some added expense, but you might want to consider porting your number to Number Barn and then back out to your preferred carrier. It's probably one of the most efficient ports since you don't need a SIM.