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I can't authenticate using 2-factor authentication

How to log into your Sage account using 2-factor authentication (2FA) when you can't authenticate using your primary 2FA method.

Updated over 2 months ago

When you set up 2FA, you choose how you want to authenticate:

  • Sage Verify app

  • Authenticator app

  • SMS text

  • Phone call

There may be times when you're unable to authenticate using these methods.

For example:

  • Your code isn't being accepted

  • You've lost or no longer have access to your old phone

  • You're not receiving a call or text with your code

  • Your authenticator app has been deleted

  • Your Sage account no longer appears in your authenticator app

  • 2FA was set up by a different user and you don't have access to that device

No matter the reason, there are workarounds to authenticate.



Use your recovery key

Your recovery key was shared with you when you first set up 2FA, and you were advised to write it down and store it somewhere safe. The code is 24 digits, containing a mix of letters and numbers.

EXAMPLE: VNDS - 79KB - 7JAJ - QNKA - F5F7 - YUPX

For steps on how to use your recovery key, use our article, Authenticate with your recovery key.

Lost your recovery key?

If you've lost your recovery key, use your backup method to generate a new recovery key or contact your employer so an admin user can reset 2FA for you.


Use your backup method

Use your backup email address or phone number to either reset your 2FA or access a temporary recovery key to log in.

For detailed steps, visit our article - Using your backup method.

📎NOTE: A backup method is only available to use if you use a Customer Sage account.

If the login screen shows a 'Changes to how you log in' banner, you use an Employee Sage account to log in to the Sage HR company.

Sage account login screen, showing a 'Changes to how you log in' banner.


If the login screen shows no banner, you use a Customer Sage account to log in to your Sage HR company.

Sage account login screen.


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