Removing an account from Google Authenticator takes a few seconds, but doing it in the wrong order can lock you out of that account. The golden rule: turn off two-step verification (or switch to another method) on the website first, then delete the code from the app. This guide covers both steps on Android and iPhone, plus what to do if you already deleted a code you still need.
Quick Answer
First sign in to the website or app the code is for and turn off two-factor authentication or move it to another method. Then open Google Authenticator, touch and hold the account (Android) or tap ⋯ > Edit and select it (iPhone), tap the trash icon, and confirm Remove account.
Step 1: Disable Two-Step Verification on the Service First
- Sign in to the website or app that uses the code (for example, your bank, forum, or email).
- Go to its security or two-factor authentication settings.
- Turn off the authenticator app method, or switch to a different method such as a new authenticator, security key, or passkey.
Removing the code from Google Authenticator does not turn off two-step verification on the service. If you delete it first, you’ll be asked for a code you can no longer generate.
Step 2: Remove the Account From Google Authenticator
Android
- Open Google Authenticator.
- Touch and hold the account you want to remove.
- Tap the trash icon at the top.
- Read the warning and tap Remove account.
iPhone and iPad
- Open Google Authenticator.
- Tap ⋯ (More) in the top-right, then Edit. (In some versions, swipe left on the account instead.)
- Tap the account, then the trash icon, and confirm Remove account.
If Your Codes Sync to a Google Account
Newer versions of Google Authenticator can back up codes to your Google Account. Removing a code on one device removes it from the backup and from other signed-in devices too. To stop syncing entirely, tap your profile picture in the app and choose Use without an account.
Remove All Codes (Moving Phones or Starting Over)
- Moving to a new phone: use Transfer accounts > Export accounts in the app, or sign in with the same Google Account on the new phone, before removing anything from the old one.
- Uninstalling the app deletes all local codes. Make sure each service has another way to sign in first.
Deleted a Code by Mistake?
- If you use cloud sync, check another signed-in device or reinstall and sign in; the code may still be in your backup if it synced before deletion (deletions also sync, so act quickly).
- Use the service’s backup codes (often saved when you first set up 2FA) to sign in.
- Use another enabled method, such as SMS or a security key.
- Contact the service’s account recovery if none of those work.
- After you’re back in, set up the authenticator again by scanning a new QR code.
Related: recover Google Authenticator codes without your old phone.
Related: Recover your Google account without your old phone.
Related: Remove Instagram from Google Smart Lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does removing a code log me out of the service?
No. You stay signed in on devices where you’re already logged in, but you’ll need a code next time you sign in if 2FA is still on.
Can I rename an account instead of removing it?
Yes. Select the account and tap the pencil icon (Android) or use Edit (iPhone) to rename it.
Why can’t I delete a code?
Update the app. If the device is managed by work or school, removal may be restricted.
Summary
- Turn off 2FA or switch methods on the website first.
- In Google Authenticator, select the account and tap the trash icon.
- Confirm Remove account.
- Keep backup codes in case you remove the wrong one.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.