How to Purchase a Phone Number in Your Account

Why Purchase a Phone Number in the Platform?

Purchasing a phone number in the platform enables you to send/receive calls and SMS directly through the software. Each account manages its own numbers—essential for tracking leads, configuring call behavior, and integrating communication workflows.

Note: Phone numbers are account-specific, not shared across the platform.

Key Benefits of Purchasing a Phone Number – At a Glance

Steps to Purchase a Phone Number

Step 1: Navigate to Phone Number Settings
Go to your account > Settings > Phone Numbers
Click + Add Number > Add Phone Number
(Screenshot 1.0)

Step 2: Select Country and Number
Select a country
Choose from Local or Toll-Free options
Click Refresh Results to load more numbers if needed
(Screenshot 1.1)

Step 3: Use Search Filters (Optional)
You can use the filter option to search your desirable numbers on the basis of:

• Digit or Phrases and match it with (first, last or any) part of the number.

• Capabilities (SMS, MMS, Voice)

• Number Type (Local or Toll Free)
  

Step 4: Confirm Purchase
Select the desired number
Click Proceed to Buy to complete the transaction

Regulatory Requirements for International Phone Numbers

A regulatory Bundle or Address is required when purchasing phone numbers in most countries outside the USA and Canada.

You need to add the required regulatory bundle. You can refer to our guide for detailed instructions here: Regulatory Bundle and Address Creation for Your Account

Can't Find a Number with Your Desired Area Code?

1. Why This Happens

2. Workarounds and Solutions

• Try Nearby Area Codes: Search for nearby or overlay area codes (e.g., if 310 is unavailable, try 424 in Los Angeles).

• Use Toll-Free or National Numbers: If local presence isn’t critical, consider a toll-free (e.g., 888, 877) or national number, which often have more availability.

• Contact the platform's Support to request availability or notification.

Note: If you don't find any international number to purchase, follow this guide: How to request a number that is not available

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I purchase multiple phone numbers for the same account?
Yes, you can purchase multiple numbers. This is helpful for managing different departments, services, or geographic regions within the same account.

Q: Do I need a separate number for each user?
Not necessarily. One number can serve multiple users if routed correctly, but for personalized outbound messaging and tracking, dedicated numbers per user are recommended.

Q: What should I do if I can’t find a number with my preferred area code?
If no numbers are available in your preferred area code, try refreshing the results to see new available options. Phone number availability changes frequently. You can also search using broader filters or nearby area codes. If you still don’t see what you need, contact the platform's Support to request assistance or check on availability for your region.

Q: Will I be charged monthly for purchased phone numbers?
Yes. You will be charged a small monthly rental fee for each number. Rates vary based on the type (local or toll-free) and region.

Q: Can I import a phone number I already own in Twilio?
Yes! You can import existing Twilio numbers. Follow this guide: Import Existing Twilio Numbers into the Platform