What’s Happening?
Skype is officially shutdown in May 2025.
Anyone using Skype-in numbers (your own phone number on Skype) will lose access unless the number is moved to another service.
What Most People Used Skype For
- Keeping a US or Canadian number while living abroad
- Receiving text messages (2FA codes from banks, apps)
- Calling 1-800 numbers or landlines from a laptop
- Showing a real caller ID when calling someone
- Staying reachable without roaming charges
What Needs to Be Done
Move (or “port”) the Skype number to another app before it’s too late.
The new app should:
- Accept number porting from Skype
- Support 2FA text messages
- Let you make and receive calls
- Work on mobile and desktop
- Be cheap or pay-as-you-go
Quick Action Plan
Step 1: Pick a new service
Step 2: Sign up and set a temp number (if needed)
Step 3: Use your Skype number and PIN 0000 to request transfer
Step 4: Wait 2–5 days
Step 5: Test SMS and calls
Done! Your number is safe.
Best Services That Actually Work
| App/Service | Monthly Cost | Keeps Your Number | 2FA Texts | Works on Computer? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tossable Digits | $3.49/month |  Yes |
Yes |
Yes (Web + App) |
| NumberBarn | $6/month | Yes |
Yes |
Web Only |
| Zoom Phone | $10/month | Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| OpenPhone | $10/month | Yes (Canada) |
 Maybe |
Yes |
| KeepCalling | Starts $2 PAYG |  No |
Maybe |
Yes |
| Fongo | Free + extras | Maybe |
Yes |
Yes (Canada) |
Services That Don’t Work with Skype Numbers
| Service | Why Not |
|---|---|
| Hushed | Won’t accept Skype number |
| Google Voice | Won’t accept Canadian or Skype numbers |
| MagicJack | Doesn’t support port-in or SMS on desktop |
| Sonetel | Can’t send texts, just email forwards |
If You Need to Use 2FA (Text Code Login)
Use one of these:
- Tossable Digits (confirmed working)
- NumberBarn
- Zoom Phone
- Tello or Mint Mobile (need Wi-Fi or local SIM)
- MagicJack (works with some banks)
Need to Use a Computer (Not Just an App)?
These are the only ones that work well:
| Works on Desktop? | Try This |
|---|---|
| Yes |
Zoom Phone, Viber, OpenPhone |
| Yes |
KeepCalling, VirtualPBX |
| No |
Hushed, MagicJack App only |
For Special Needs
| Situation | Suggested Option |
|---|---|
| Cheap calling to USA/Canada | KeepCalling, Yolla |
| Call 1-800 numbers from abroad | KeepCalling, Zoom |
| Need a Canadian number overseas | OpenPhone, Tossable |
| Just want to keep number alive | NumberBarn, Tossable |
| Want to receive bank OTP or SMS codes | Tossable, Zoom, Tello |
Watch Out For These
- Not all apps support SMS from banks (shortcodes)
- Some won’t let you keep your Skype number
- Some block accounts for using “bad” words
- Many don’t have desktop access—only mobile
- Prices may look cheap but have hidden limits
Helpful Links
Final Reminder
After May 2025:
- Skype-in numbers will be gone
- SMS codes (2FA) won’t reach you
- Bank logins might break
- You may lose access to important apps
Best solution: Move the number now and update it in all your accounts.
Don’t wait. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
!