Fix: “We can’t send a code right now” Error Message on Facebook
The error message “We can’t send a code right now. Try again in a few minutes.” appears when Facebook temporarily blocks the delivery of verification codes due to irregular or excessive login attempts. This usually happens when too many verification codes are requested within a short period of time.
This block is part of Facebook’s built-in security system. The platform uses automated checks to detect unusual activity. When suspicious patterns are identified, such as repeated login attempts or rapid code requests, the system temporarily limits code delivery to protect the account.
However, this error isn’t always caused by security triggers. In some cases, factors like mobile carrier delays, unstable network connections, or email delivery issues can also prevent codes from being sent. As a result, even legitimate users may face temporary restrictions.
Below are some proven methods that many users have successfully used to restore account access.
1. Regain Access through Linked Meta Apps
Note: The same can be done if you have another device that already has your Facebook logged in.
If your Messenger or Instagram account is linked to your Meta account, these apps share the same security settings as Facebook. By using Messenger or Instagram, you can manage your security settings through an already recognized logged-in session. This allows you to disable or reset your two-factor authentication without waiting for a verification code.
- Open a Meta app where you’re already logged in with your Facebook account.
- Click on your profile picture and select Settings & privacy.
- Go to Settings.
- Click See more in Account Center from the left pane.
- Go to Password and security.
- Click Two-factor Authentication.
- Select your Facebook account from the list.
- Go to Authentication App.
- Toggle it on and select Add.
- Name it whatever you want and then click on Next.
- Scan the QR code or enter the key into the authenticator app you’re using.
- Once scanned, select Next and enter the current code in your authenticator.
- Your 2FA can now also be used with the Authenticator App. Try logging in again.
2. Wait and Retry Later
Many users have reported that their accounts automatically start receiving verification codes again once the temporary block is lifted. In most cases, the cooldown period lasts a few hours, but in some situations, it may extend up to a full day. Waiting for this restriction to expire and then trying again is often enough to restore normal code delivery.
3. Recover Access Using Facebook Lite’s Alternate Login Path
Facebook Lite is a lightweight version of Facebook mainly designed for users with limited resources or connectivity issues. This version connects to a simpler version of Facebook’s authentication servers, which can sometimes bypass the temporary SMS restriction that occurs in the main Facebook app.
By using Facebook Lite and selecting Find my account, you can follow an alternate path that relies more on email verification than SMS verification.
- Download Facebook Lite and open it.
- Select Create new account.
- Select Find my account.
- Tap on Search by email address instead.
- Enter the email address linked to your Facebook account.
- Facebook will display the account linked to the email you entered. Instead of entering your password, select Try another way.
- Facebook will send a code to your email. Enter it in the box provided.
- On the next page, select WhatsApp instead of Text message and tap on Continue.
- Enter the code sent to your WhatsApp, and your account will log in successfully.
4. Switch Network or Use a VPN
Facebook’s security system tracks your IP address and network behavior to detect unusual or risky login patterns. If your current connection, such as public Wi-Fi or mobile data, has high spam traffic, Facebook may trigger a security flag. Switching to a different network, such as mobile data, or using a VPN will change your IP route and clear any network-based restrictions.
