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Set up a backup method for 2-factor authentication

Learn how to add or update a backup email address or phone number so you can reset 2-factor authentication (2FA) yourself if needed.

If you sign in with a Customer Sage account, we recommend setting up a backup method. It gives you another way to regain access to your account if you lose access to your 2FA method and recovery key.


What's a backup method?

A backup method is an alternative email address or phone number you can use if you can't access your 2FA method and have lost your recovery key. It helps you regain access to your account and reset 2FA.

📎NOTE: You can have one backup method, either an email address or a phone number. It must be different from the details already linked to your Sage account. For example, you can't use the same phone number for both sign-in texts and your backup method.


How do I know if I have a backup method?

We recommend signing in to Account Management to check if you have a backup method set up. If you don't, you'll see a message prompting you to add one.


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How do I set up a backup method?

You're prompted to set up a backup method when you first enable 2FA. You can also add or update one at any time.

Use the steps below to:

  • Set up a backup method

  • Change your backup method from a phone number to an email address

  • Change your backup method from an email address to a phone number

  • Update your backup email address

  • Update your backup phone number

Managing a backup method

  1. After signing in:

    • If you don't have a backup method set up, you'll see a message prompting you to add one. Click Set up a backup method

    • If you already have a backup method, click Protect your account, then Manage backup method.
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      📎NOTE: You'll be asked to sign in and verify your identity again before making changes.


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    Manage your account screen with option to set up a backup method.

  2. If you're setting up a backup method for the first time, you'll go to the Set up a backup method page.
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    If you already have a backup method, click Change backup method.
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    Set up a backup method page, with options to select a phone number or email address.


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  3. On the Select a backup method page, choose Phone number or Email address, then enter the details you want to use.
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    📌TIP: Choose a backup method you'll still have access to if you lose or can't use your current device.

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Once you've set up a backup method, you can use it to regain access to your account, reset 2FA, or create a new recovery key if you lose access to your existing 2FA method.

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