Step-by-step instructions
Confirm which number your bank has registered
Look at your own account documents or ask the bank through its official contact channel which mobile number is on file. A new SIM, replacement number or changed phone does not automatically update bank records. In dual-SIM phones, check which number is active before another attempt.
Check signal, SMS delivery and roaming
See whether you can receive an ordinary SMS from someone you trust. Move to a stronger-signal area and restart the phone once. If you are abroad, verify with your operator and bank whether roaming or international short-code SMS delivery is supported; do not assume every Nepali SMS works overseas.
Look in spam, blocked or filtered messages
Open the phone’s Messages app and review Spam or Blocked. Some phones silently filter short-code messages. Use the built-in messaging app during verification if the bank advises it; Nepal Bank specifically mentions third-party messaging apps as a possible activation issue.
Allow time; request a new code only when needed
Read the app’s countdown and request a fresh OTP after expiry rather than entering several older numbers. Do not tap the button repeatedly. Excess requests may temporarily block verification. Check whether the most recent code was delivered late and matches the correct transaction description.
If activation sends an SMS, check outgoing service
Some apps verify by sending an SMS from the registered SIM, so an outgoing-text problem can look like an OTP reception problem. Check message permissions and whether your prepaid balance or service supports the SMS. Never change bank settings using a code sent by an unknown caller.
Turn off interfering apps cautiously
A VPN, permissions restriction or aggressive battery-management app can interfere with mobile banking activation. Check whether the official bank app has the access it specifically requests; avoid disabling phone security globally. Close the app normally and retry from a trusted mobile connection.
Contact the bank using its official number
If the code still fails, call the number on the bank’s card, statement or genuine website—not a social-media comment. State that the SMS is missing, when you tried and what kind of activation or payment is involved. Staff should not need your full password or OTP to investigate.
Protect the account while the issue is unresolved
Do not send payment repeatedly because a confirmation code did not appear. Review your transaction history first; a request may have processed separately. Keep screenshots with personal details redacted when reporting. If the account seems compromised, ask the bank to restrict activity immediately.
Mistakes to avoid
- Sending an OTP to a caller or WhatsApp “support agent”.
- Trying many codes without checking which request is current.
- Assuming a new phone number is already registered with the bank.
Frequently asked questions
Do banks always send an OTP?
Methods vary by bank, product and transaction. Some use app approvals or device-bound authentication.
Can a bank worker ask for my OTP?
Treat that as unsafe. Never reveal a verification code or password.
What if the OTP arrives after the timer ends?
Return to the official app and request a new code using the displayed process. Do not guess or reuse expired codes.
Official sources and further reading
Operator rules, application screens and government procedures can change. Check the latest official instructions before sharing personal details or paying a fee.
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