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Verifying your cell phone number

Starting 10/22/25, teachers will need to verify their cell phone numbers to post a project on DonorsChoose. This helps us prevent duplicate or fraudulent accounts and maintain the high level of integrity DonorsChoose is known for. That gives our donors confidence that their donations are being used by real teachers and students. Your phone number will never be shared publicly on the site or with donors.

Verification Process

Before you can submit a project, you’ll be prompted to verify your phone number. You’ll receive a text message with a code (SMS), which you’ll enter on our site to complete verification.

Follow these steps:

  1. Enter your unique cell phone number into the phone number field.
    1. The number must be a personal cell phone number able to receive text messages SMS; this should not be a shared number or landline.

  1. Click Send Code.
  2. Check your phone for a text message from DonorsChoose with your verification code.
  3. Enter the code into the code field and click the Verify button.

  1. Once you see “ Your phone number is verified!”, click Continue.

Having trouble verifying?

Try these quick fixes:

  • If you’ve opted out of DonorsChoose texts: Text Start to 31869 to opt back in, then try sending the code again.
  • Turn off “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone. This may block delivery of your verification text.
  • Check for text or spam filters. Make sure nothing is blocking messages from DonorsChoose (31869).
  • If you’re outside the U.S.: Verification only works with U.S. phone numbers. Please try again when you’re in the U.S.

Still having trouble? Reach out via our contact form here.

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