Set up a recovery phone number or email address

You can set or change recovery options for your UW NetID password.  The options allow you to recover your password by having a secret code sent to you by phone (text message or voice) or email.

Required Password Recovery for UW NetIDs

Starting August 2025, all new UW NetIDs must include an email OR mobile number set up for password recovery. Beginning Fall 2025, all existing UW NetIDs will also be required to have recovery options. Users who haven’t added at least one recovery method will receive email notifications before this change takes effect.

To set a recovery phone number:

1. Open a web browser and go to:  UW NetID Account Recovery Settings
2. Click Add mobile number.  
3. Type the phone number you want to use for account recovery.  The phone number must be able to receive text messages.
4. Click Send Code.  A verification code is sent to your phone immediately.  Keep this web page open while you wait for the code.
5. Type the verification code in the requested field on the page.  Click Verify.
6.  Your recovery phone number is set

To set a recovery email address:

1. Open a web browser and go to:  UW NetID Account Recovery Settings
2. Click Add Recovery Email.  
3. Type the email address you want to use for account recovery.
4. Click Send Email.  A Verification message is emailed to you immediately.
5. Follow the instructions in the verification message.
6. Your recovery email address is set