TikTok requires users to link a phone number when creating or securing an account. The number helps with verification, password recovery, and account protection. However, there are times when you may want to remove or change your number — for example, when switching to a new line, sharing a device, or improving privacy.
Unlinking your phone number from TikTok is possible, but the process isn’t always straightforward because TikTok does not provide a direct “remove number” button. Instead, you must replace it, update it, or contact support. This detailed guide explains all the methods available.
Why You May Want to Unlink Your Phone Number
People remove their phone numbers from TikTok for various reasons, including:
- Switching to a new phone number
- Protecting privacy
- Stopping spam or unwanted notifications
- Removing the number from a shared or old account
- Securing an account after losing access to the SIM card
- Moving to email-only login
Whatever your reason, TikTok gives you several ways to unlink or replace your number.
Method 1: Change Your Phone Number in TikTok (Fastest Option)
TikTok does not allow users to simply delete a number, but you can unlink it by replacing it with another number — even a temporary one.
Steps:
- Open the TikTok app and log in.
- Go to your Profile (bottom right corner).
- Tap the three-line menu (☰) at the top right.
- Select Settings and privacy.
- Tap Account.
- Choose Account information.
- Select Phone number.
- Tap Change phone.
- Enter the new number you want to use.
- TikTok will send a verification code to the new number — enter it.
Once verified, the original phone number is automatically removed from your account.
Method 2: Unlink Phone Number by Switching to Email Login
If you want to remove your number because you no longer want to use it for login, switching to email can help.
Steps:
- Go to Profile → Settings and privacy
- Tap Account → Account information
- Select Email
- Add a valid email and verify it
- After verification, you can use email instead of your phone number to log in
This does NOT remove your number, but it allows you to log in without it and prepares your account for Methods 1 or 3.
Method 3: If You No Longer Have Access to the Phone Number
If your old SIM card is lost, inactive, or you cannot receive verification codes, you will need TikTok’s help to remove or update the phone number.
Steps:
- Open TikTok and go to Settings and privacy.
- Scroll down and tap Report a problem.
- Choose:
- Account and profile
- Changing phone number or email
- Select I can’t change my phone number.
- Tap Need more help?
- Describe the issue clearly, such as:
“I no longer have access to the phone number linked to my account and need it removed or updated.”
TikTok Support may request:
- Proof of account ownership (ID or screenshots)
- Previous login details
- Associated email
Once verified, they will unlink the old number manually.
Method 4: Unlink Phone Number Using TikTok Web
Some users find it easier to update information from a browser.
Steps:
- Visit www.tiktok.com and log in.
- Click your Profile icon → Settings.
- Go to Manage account.
- Select Phone number → Update.
- Enter a new number to replace the old one.
TikTok web offers the same functions but sometimes works better if the app glitches.
Important Things to Know
TikTok does not allow users to completely delete a number
You must replace it with another number or request support assistance.
One phone number can only be linked to one TikTok account
If you need to use your number on a new account, unlink it from the old one first.
Verification codes are required for any number change
Without access to your old number, contact TikTok Support.
Avoid using virtual or VoIP numbers
TikTok may reject them for security reasons.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you get “This number is in use”
The phone number may be linked to another account. You must:
- Log into the old account and remove it, or
- Request TikTok Support to free the number
If verification codes are not arriving
- Check network signal
- Restart your phone
- Ensure your number can receive SMS
- Try switching mobile data/Wi-Fi
If the app keeps crashing
Update TikTok or use TikTok Web instead.
ALSO READ: How to unfollow people fast on TikTok
