MFA & Verification Issues

Are There Charges for Microsoft 365 MFA SMS and Phone Verification?

Natalie Taylor Oct 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users want to know if receiving SMS texts or phone calls for Microsoft 365 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) incurs any charges, especially when traveling internationally.

Microsoft 365 MFA SMS and Phone Verification Charges Explained

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Verifying account login using SMS or phone call instead of the Microsoft Authenticator app.
Observed behavior: Users need to receive an SMS or a voice call to authenticate their sign-in but are concerned about potential hidden fees or carrier roaming charges.

Before you start

Before relying on SMS or voice calls for international travel, contact your mobile network provider to confirm if they charge fees for receiving standard texts or calls while roaming.

Solution 1Recommended

Understand MFA Billing Rules and Update Your Authentication Methods

Clarify the billing responsibilities between Microsoft and your mobile carrier, and learn how to change your MFA settings to avoid roaming charges.

Microsoft generally does not charge any fees for sending MFA SMS messages or making automated verification calls to your registered phone number.

However, your mobile service provider might charge you for receiving these texts or calls depending on your cellular plan. This is particularly common if you are traveling abroad and subject to international roaming fees.

Access Security Info

Navigate to the Microsoft My Sign-Ins portal at mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info and sign in with your Microsoft 365 credentials.

Review Current Methods

Look at the list of your currently registered authentication methods under the 'Security info' tab.

Add or Change a Method

Click 'Add method' to configure a new verification option such as the Microsoft Authenticator app, which requires only an internet connection and avoids SMS roaming fees.

Change Default Login Option

Select 'Change' next to 'Default sign-in method' and choose your preferred, cost-effective authentication option from the dropdown menu.

Understand MFA Billing Rules and Update Your Authentication Methods

Authenticator App Recommendation: Using the Microsoft Authenticator app over Wi-Fi is highly recommended when traveling internationally to completely avoid mobile carrier SMS and call charges.

Solution 2

Configure Available MFA Methods as a Microsoft 365 Administrator

Admins can adjust the tenant settings to allow users to select SMS or phone calls if they cannot use the Authenticator app.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Microsoft charge for MFA text messages?

No, Microsoft does not charge you for sending the MFA SMS code or initiating the automated voice call. However, your mobile carrier may apply standard text messaging or voice rates depending on your cellular plan.

How can I avoid MFA SMS charges when traveling internationally?

To avoid roaming charges for SMS or voice calls, set up the Microsoft Authenticator app before traveling. The app can generate time-based codes or receive push notifications over a standard Wi-Fi connection without using cellular carrier service.

Why is the Microsoft Authenticator app the only option available for my account?

This usually occurs because your organization's IT administrator has restricted the available authentication methods to only allow the Authenticator app for enhanced security. You will need to contact your IT support team to request that SMS or phone call options be enabled for your account.

Can I change the phone number used for Microsoft 365 SMS verification?

Yes, you can update your verification phone number by logging into your account at mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info. From there, you can edit your existing phone number or add a new one under your listed authentication methods.

Login & Account Issues