Yes, you can absolutely sign up for TextNow with just an email address for free and instantly receive a working, local U.S. or Canadian phone number. TextNow does not require a pre-existing phone number or credit card information to create a basic account, which allows you to enjoy unlimited calling and texting over a Wi-Fi connection.
This guide provides the simple, step-by-step process for creating your free TextNow account using only an email address and explains the difference between the free app service (Wi-Fi only) and the free nationwide plan (requires a SIM card).
How to Create Your Free TextNow Account Using Email
TextNow is available as a mobile app (for iOS and Android) and as a web-based client for desktop computers. The sign-up process is nearly identical for both platforms.
Step-by-Step Account Creation
- Download the App (or Visit the Website):
- Mobile: Go to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download the free TextNow
- Desktop: Visit TextNow’s website and look for the “Sign Up” or “Create Account” option.
- Start the Sign-Up Process:
- Launch the app or click “Create Account” on the website.
- You will be given options like “Continue with Google,” “Continue with Apple,” or “Sign Up with Email.” Choose the email option.
- Enter Credentials:
- Provide a valid email address (this will be the primary identifier for your account).
- Create a secure password.
- Verification and Location:
- The app may request access to your location to assign a local phone number. You can usually choose to “Use Current Location” or “Enter an Area Code”
- Note: TextNow does not typically require a verification code sent to your original phone number when signing up with email.
- Select Your Number:
- Once you provide an area code, TextNow will present you with a list of available, 10-digit phone numbers.
- Choose your desired number.
- Start Using Your Free Service:
- The app instantly assigns the number to your account. You can now begin sending and receiving unlimited texts and calls to the U.S. and Canada whenever you are connected to Wi-Fi.
Tip for Multiple Accounts
If you wish to create more than one TextNow account (which can be useful for separate work or private lines) but only have one email address, some email providers (like Gmail) allow you to use “dot tricks” or “plus addressing.” TextNow may interpret these modified email addresses as unique, even though the messages are delivered to your primary inbox.
Free Service vs. Free Wireless: Understanding TextNow Plans
While you can sign up with email for free and start using the app immediately, it’s important to understand the two levels of “free” service offered by TextNow:
- Free Wi-Fi App Service (Requires Only Email)
This is the basic service you receive immediately upon signing up with your email and password.
| Feature | Details | Cost |
| Connectivity | Requires Wi-Fi or existing cellular data from another carrier. | $0/month |
| Talk & Text | Unlimited calls and texts to the U.S. and Canada. | Free (Ad-supported) |
| Data | None (unless connected to Wi-Fi) | N/A |
| Requirements | Valid email address. | None |
- Free Flex Plan (Requires SIM Card Purchase)
If you want the full “free phone service” experience that works outside of Wi-Fi, you must purchase a TextNow SIM card (a one-time, low-cost fee).
| Feature | Details | Cost |
| Connectivity | Nationwide 5G Network access (uses T-Mobile towers). | $0/month (after initial SIM fee) |
| Talk & Text | Unlimited calls and texts nationwide. | Free (Ad-supported) |
| Essential Data | Free limited data for essential apps like email, maps (navigation), and rideshare services. | Free |
| Requirements | Valid email address + compatible unlocked phone + one-time SIM card purchase. | $0/month |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a charge to keep my TextNow phone number?
No, the basic TextNow phone number is free to keep. However, TextNow reserves the right to reclaim your number if you let it go completely inactive for an extended period. To keep your number active and free, you simply need to make an occasional outgoing call or text message.
Can I use my TextNow number for verification codes (2FA)?
Generally, yes, but not always. TextNow provides a real, 10-digit phone number, but because it is a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number, many banks, financial services, and security-conscious platforms (like Snapchat, Uber, or some credit unions) actively block or refuse to send two-factor authentication (2FA) codes to VoIP numbers to prevent fraud.
Do I need a TextNow SIM card to get the free service?
It depends on where you want to use the service.
- No SIM Card: You can use the free app for unlimited calls and texts over Wi-Fi only.
- Yes, SIM Card Needed: You need to purchase and activate a TextNow SIM card to access the Free Flex Plan, which gives you unlimited talk and text nationwide over 5G, plus essential data access, without needing to be on Wi-Fi.
Can I port my existing phone number to TextNow?
Yes. You can transfer (port) your current mobile number from another carrier to your free TextNow account. This process requires you to submit a request and provide account details (account number, PIN/Passcode) from your old carrier. Note that number porting may require an active TextNow SIM card to complete.
