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vanyacosov
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Locked out of Apple ID due to 2FA SMS block and Mac Pro not generating codes

Hello everyone,


I recently completed the Account Recovery process on iforgot.apple.com, successfully changed my Apple ID password, and updated my phone number.


However, I am completely locked out due to the following situation:


  1. My Mac Pro is listed in my account as a trusted device. However, macOS was clean reinstalled on it. Because of the fresh OS installation, the Mac no longer generates or displays on-screen 2FA codes when I try to sign in.
  2. When I try to log in (on the Mac or via browser), Apple prompts for a code sent to my phone number.
  3. Choosing the SMS/phone option immediately results in this error: "Too many verification codes sent. Enter the last code received, use a trusted device, or try again later."
  4. I already tried logging in through alternative portals like Apple Search Ads and the Apple Developer portal, but I get the exact same error there ("Too many codes").
  5. I waited over 72 hours without making any sign-in attempts, but on the very first try after the wait, the exact same error appeared instantly.


So right now:


  • The Mac Pro cannot generate codes because macOS was reinstalled.
  • The SMS option is completely blocked by the system error and won't send any codes.


Is there any way to fix this SMS block, or should I start Account Recovery again from scratch?


Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Posted on Oct 18, 2026 4:31 AM

2 replies

Limnos
User level: Level 10 (462,771 points)

Oct 18, 2026 4:59 AM in response to vanyacosov

Yes, resetting the Mac probably removed its "trusted" device status so it won't receive a code. The too many codes sent has a wait time as mention in this Apple Recommended (an older forum system whereby Apple officially designated a reply as likely containing a solution) reply by ASC contributor Eric Root:

Too Many Codes Sent - Apple Community -- "Normally, the wait time is 8 hours after the last notification."


I think I have seen several other similar posts along the lines of very long wait times in the past week, so instead of giving you a stock reply to wait I will suggest you go straight to Apple about this.


This support page has information about contacting Apple support and service ➔ Contact Apple Support - Apple Support If live support options (chat and/or telephone) are available they will show near the bottom left.

- Telephone numbers may only work when calling from the same country.

- Chat options (telephone numbers appear as active links, not plain text) may depend upon cellular connectivity. If a number shows as an active link, click on it to see additional options.

- If chat is not available on the top level support page, try selecting your hardware and narrow down your issue to see if a support article offers a support link offering chat. For example, the contact support link on this page Check your Apple Account balance - Apple Support offers a chat link about emptying account balance even on a computer where the top level page does not offer any chat.

With an iPhone, iPad, or Vision, you may be able to chat using the Apple Support App if it is available in your country —> https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044




vanyacosov Author
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Oct 18, 2026 6:07 AM in response to Limnos

Thank you for the detailed response and explanation!


Knowing that the standard wait time is usually 8 hours makes it clear that something is stuck on the server side in my case, as I already waited over 72 hours without making any attempts.


I will try using the support links and navigation tricks you suggested to access the live chat option with Apple Support.


Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256378304