Ancestry · account access

How to Login Ancestry with Phone Number?

Many online services now allow login using a phone number instead of an email. This guide addresses the question: can you log into Ancestry with a phone number? We'll explain Ancestry's current login methods, how phone numbers are used for security (like two-factor authentication), and what to do if you want to use your phone number for account access.

Quick answer: Can you use a phone number to log into Ancestry?

No, currently Ancestry does not offer direct login using a phone number as a primary identifier. Your Ancestry account is tied to an email address, and you must use that email (or a connected Google/Apple account) to sign in. However, your phone number plays an important role in securing your account and recovering access.

How phone numbers are used on Ancestry

Two-factor authentication (2FA) Receive verification codes via SMS to secure your login.

Account recovery If you forget your password, a code can be sent to your phone to verify your identity.

Contact notifications Get text alerts about hints, messages, or subscription updates (optional).

DNA kit activation Phone number may be used during the DNA kit activation process for verification.

Standard login: using your email

Since phone number login isn't an option, here's a quick refresher on how to log in with your email – the primary method.

📧 Email login steps

Go to the Ancestry website or open the app.
Click Sign in.
Enter the email address associated with your Ancestry account.
Enter your password.
If you have two-factor authentication enabled, enter the code sent to your phone or authenticator app.
Click Sign in to access your account.

Adding or updating your phone number on Ancestry

Even though you can't log in with your phone number, keeping it current in your account settings is crucial for security and recovery.

📱 How to add or change your phone number

Log into your Ancestry account using your email and password.
Click on your profile icon (top right on computer, bottom right in the app) and select Account settings.
Look for a section called Contact information, Security, or Phone numbers.
Click Add or Edit next to your phone number.
Enter your phone number and verify it (Ancestry may send a code to that number).
Save the changes. Your phone number is now linked to your account for 2FA and recovery.

Using your phone number for two-factor authentication (2FA)

Once your phone number is added, you can enable SMS-based two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security: after entering your email and password, Ancestry will text a one-time code to your phone, which you must enter to complete the login.

🔐 Enabling 2FA via SMS

In Account settings, go to the Security section.
Find Two-step verification or Two-factor authentication.
Choose Text message (SMS) as your method.
Follow the prompts to verify your phone number.
From then on, when you log in, you'll receive a code via SMS to enter.

    Important: 2FA significantly improves your account security. Even if someone gets your password, they cannot log in without access to your phone.
  

What if you don't have access to your email?

If you've lost access to the email address associated with your Ancestry account, but you have a phone number on file, you may still be able to recover your account.

On the sign‑in page, click Forgot password?
Enter your email address. If you don't remember it, look for a link like “Trouble logging in?” or “Use phone number instead” – though this is not a standard option.
If Ancestry has your phone number on file, they may offer to send a verification code to your phone to prove your identity, then allow you to update your email.
If this option isn't available, you'll need to contact Ancestry support for manual account recovery, providing identifying information.

Troubleshooting: phone number related login issues

📵 Not receiving 2FA codes via SMS

If you have 2FA enabled but aren't receiving text messages:

Check that your phone has cellular reception.
Ensure your phone number is correct in your Ancestry account settings.
Try the “Resend code” option on the login screen.
If you use an authenticator app as backup, try that method.
If problems persist, consider switching to an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator) for 2FA, as it doesn't rely on SMS.

🔄 Phone number already in use

A single phone number can be associated with multiple Ancestry accounts. If you try to add a number and get an error, it may already be linked to another account you own. You can still use it for 2FA on multiple accounts – just verify it separately for each.

📞 Changed your phone number?

If you get a new phone number, be sure to update it in your Ancestry account settings immediately. Otherwise, you could be locked out of your account if you rely on SMS 2FA. Log in while you still have access to your old number or use backup codes to update it.

🌐 “Phone login” option not appearing

Some users might see a “Login with phone” option if they are in certain regions or using specific devices, but this is typically for creating a new account, not for logging into an existing one. Ancestry's primary identifier remains email. If you see such an option, it might be for a related service, not the main ancestry.com login.

Alternatives to using a phone number for login

Since direct phone number login isn't available, here are the supported methods:

Email + password – the standard method.
Google account – sign in using your Google credentials.
Apple ID – sign in with Apple (on applicable devices).
QR code – scan a code with the Ancestry app on your phone (requires being logged into the app).

Frequently asked questions

Will Ancestry ever allow login with phone number?

Ancestry has not announced any plans to change their primary login method. Email remains the standard because it's a universal identifier and allows for communication. However, as technology evolves, they may introduce more options.

Can I create an Ancestry account using my phone number?

No, account creation also requires an email address. You will need a valid email to sign up.

I received a text from Ancestry – is it legitimate?

Ancestry may send SMS messages for 2FA codes, account alerts, or promotional offers if you've opted in. Be cautious of unsolicited texts asking for personal information – always verify the source.

What if I only have a landline?

SMS-based 2FA requires a mobile phone that can receive text messages. If you only have a landline, you should use an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) for two-factor authentication instead.

Can I use someone else's phone number for my account?

It's not recommended. For security and recovery, you should use your own phone number that you have direct access to. Using someone else's number could lock you out of your account if you need to verify via SMS.

Conclusion

While you cannot directly log into Ancestry using your phone number, your phone number is a valuable tool for securing your account through two-factor authentication and for account recovery. Make sure your phone number is up to date in your account settings, and consider enabling 2FA via SMS or an authenticator app for the best protection. For daily access, continue using your email and password, or link a Google/Apple account for quicker sign‑in.