Introduction
Robinhood is a popular brokerage and investing platform available through web and mobile apps. Accessing your account safely is the first and most important step to protect your funds and personal information. This guide walks through the login experience, recommended security settings (including MFA and device verification), account recovery options, and practical troubleshooting steps for both newcomers and experienced users.
Signing in — web and mobile
The basic sign-in flow is straightforward but varies slightly between the web app and mobile app:
Web
- Open a browser and go to
robinhood.com
. Verify the URL and HTTPS padlock in the address bar. - Click Log in and enter your email (or username) and password.
- If prompted, complete multi-factor authentication as configured on your account.
- Once authenticated, you’ll land in the dashboard where you can view holdings, place trades, and manage settings.
Mobile
- Open the official Robinhood app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Tap Log in, enter your credentials, and follow any MFA prompts.
- On supported devices you can enable biometric unlock (Face ID / Touch ID) for convenience after the initial login.
Tip: Bookmark the official site and avoid following login links from unsolicited emails or messages.
Creating a strong account from the start
If you are registering a new Robinhood account, use these steps to maximize security:
- Choose a unique, strong password (use a password manager to create and store it).
- Register with an email you control and secure that email account with MFA as well.
- Complete the identity verification prompts (name, SSN last 4, DOB) accurately to reduce friction for future account actions.
- Enable multi-factor authentication immediately after account creation.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) options
MFA adds a second layer of protection beyond your password. Robinhood supports several MFA methods; prefer the strongest available:
- Authenticator apps (TOTP): Use an app like Authy, Google Authenticator, or Microsoft Authenticator. These are resistant to SIM swap attacks.
- SMS / SMS-based codes: Better than no MFA but vulnerable to SIM swap and number porting attacks; use only if no other option is available.
- Biometric unlock: On mobile, enable Face ID or Touch ID for quick unlocking — combine this with app-level protections and a device PIN.
When setting up TOTP, store backup codes securely (offline) so you can regain access if you lose your authenticator device.
Device verification and session management
Robinhood may track devices and sessions to detect unusual access. You can review active sessions in settings and revoke access for unknown devices. Best practices include:
- Regularly review and sign out of devices you no longer use.
- Enable email notifications for new device logins or account changes.
- Use a dedicated device (personal phone/computer) for financial accounts when practical.
Account recovery — lost password or MFA
If you can’t sign in, follow these recovery steps:
- Use the Forgot password link on the login page to receive a reset email. Check spam folders if you don’t receive it quickly.
- If your MFA device is lost, use saved recovery codes (if you created them). If you did not, contact Robinhood Support and be prepared to complete identity verification steps.
- For compromised email accounts, secure the email first; control of your email can allow attackers to reset passwords elsewhere.
Note: Recovery may require uploading ID documents or answering account-specific questions to confirm ownership, especially for accounts holding significant assets.
Protecting funds — withdrawal and transfer safeguards
Robinhood provides protections to limit unauthorized withdrawals and transfers:
- Bank linking verification: When you add an external bank account, Robinhood verifies small deposits or uses instant verification services. Monitor your email for verification prompts.
- Instant transfers limits: Be aware of instant withdrawal limits and holding periods for deposits — higher limits often require additional verification.
- Contact support immediately if you notice unauthorized transfers — provide transaction IDs and timestamps where possible.
Troubleshooting common login problems
Not receiving password reset emails
- Check spam and promotions folders; add
@robinhood.com
to your email whitelist. - Confirm you are using the email address associated with the account.
- Contact Robinhood Support if the reset email doesn’t arrive after several attempts.
MFA codes not working
- If using TOTP, ensure your authenticator app’s time is synchronized with the network time.
- Try using a backup code if you stored one during MFA setup.
- Contact support if you have no recovery options available; expect identity verification.
App crashes or fails to load
- Restart the app and your device; ensure you have the latest app version from the official store.
- On web, clear browser cache or try an alternative supported browser.
- Verify network connectivity and disable interfering browser extensions or VPNs if they block connections.
Security best practices — practical checklist
- Use a password manager to create and store unique passwords for Robinhood and your email account.
- Enable TOTP-based MFA and store recovery codes offline (paper or encrypted vault).
- Secure your email with strong MFA — email compromise can be used to reset other accounts.
- Avoid using public Wi‑Fi for trading or account management; if necessary, use a trusted VPN and a secure device.
- Be wary of phishing: never provide passwords, MFA codes, or SSNs in response to unsolicited messages.
- Regularly review account activity and statements to spot unusual transactions early.
When to contact Robinhood Support
Contact Support if you encounter:
- Unable to recover account with available recovery options.
- Unauthorized trades or transfers you did not initiate.
- Identity verification failures or account restrictions that block access.
- Persistent technical issues that prevent logging in after troubleshooting steps.
When contacting support, include as much detail as possible (account email, device type, error messages, timestamps). Do not send passwords or full recovery codes over email or chat.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Robinhood without a phone number?
Robinhood typically asks for a phone number for verification and security. You may be able to use alternative verification methods, but providing a secure phone number that you control simplifies account recovery and notifications.
How long does password reset take?
Password reset emails usually arrive within minutes. If you do not receive the email, check spam and email filters; if still absent, contact Support for assistance.
What if my account is locked for security?
Account locks are temporary protections. Follow on-screen instructions to unlock, or contact Support and be ready to verify your identity if needed.