Bans and recovery
Instagram 'phone number already in use'
Instagram ties one number to one account and keeps the link for a long time.
SMS Nitro team ·
What does 'phone number already in use' mean on Instagram?
The number is attached to another Instagram account, possibly created by a previous user of that temporary number. Cancel it (no charge) and take a new number; Instagram will accept one with no history. If it is your own old account, use email recovery instead of the phone.
Recovering an account without the number
- Use the email on the account to reset the password.
- If no email, Instagram's 'need more help' flow asks for a selfie video for accounts with a face.
- Rent the number next time for accounts you care about.
SMS Nitro at a glance
| Billing | Pay only if the code arrives. If no SMS arrives before the number expires, the frozen amount returns to your balance automatically, in full. |
|---|---|
| Number reserved for | Up to 20 minutes per activation. Rentals from 24 hours to 30 days with unlimited incoming SMS. |
| Payment | Card via Stripe (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay) or crypto (USDC or SOL on Solana). Minimum top-up $5. Card top-ups carry a 10% processing fee; crypto has none. |
| Subscription | None. Pay per verification; your balance never expires. |
| Countries | 180+ countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, India, Germany, Brazil, Indonesia and the Philippines. |
| Apps | 700+ apps and websites: WhatsApp, Telegram, Google, Instagram, TikTok, Discord, OpenAI, PayPal, Tinder, Amazon and more. |
| Developers | REST API plus an SMS-Activate-compatible endpoint. API key available after your first top-up. No API surcharge. |
| Support | Tickets from the dashboard and email, answered by people. |
| Price | From $0.02 per verification code, depending on the app and the country. |
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove the number from the old account?
Only from inside that account. Instagram does not release numbers on request.
Can I force Instagram to release the number?
No. Only the account that holds it can remove it.
Will a new temporary number work?
Yes, if it has no Instagram history. The catalog avoids reselling numbers for the same app too soon.
How do I protect the new account?
Add an email, enable two-factor with an app, and rent the number if you plan to re-verify.