Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Help
Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of security to your BereaveGuide account. Even if someone discovers your password, they still cannot log in without the second factor.
What is two-factor authentication?
Your password is the first lock. Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second one. Even if someone else discovers your password, they still cannot log in without also having your phone or access to your email.
BereaveGuide holds sensitive personal and legal information. Turning on 2FA is the single biggest step you can take to keep that information safe.
Option 1 — Authenticator app (recommended)
What you need
A free app on your smartphone — Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy all work. Install one from your phone's app store before you start.
How to set it up
Go to Account → Security → Enable 2FA and choose "Authenticator app". A square barcode (QR code) will appear on screen. Open your authenticator app, tap the "+" or "Add account" button, then point your phone's camera at the barcode. The app will start showing a 6-digit code that changes every 30 seconds.
Logging in
After you enter your password, you will be asked for your 6-digit code. Open the authenticator app and type in the code shown. You have about 30 seconds before it refreshes — if it changes while you're typing, just use the new one.
Option 2 — Email code
What you need
Nothing extra — just access to the email address you use to sign in to BereaveGuide.
How to set it up
Go to Account → Security → Enable 2FA and choose "Email". We will send a 6-digit code to your email address. Type that code in to confirm, and 2FA will be switched on.
Logging in
After you enter your password, click "Send code". A 6-digit code will arrive in your inbox within a minute or two. Type it in to complete your login. The code expires after 10 minutes, so use it promptly. If the code doesn't arrive, check your junk or spam folder.
Recovery codes — your backup keys
When you set up 2FA, you'll be given a set of one-time recovery codes. Save these somewhere safe (printed out or in a password manager). If you ever lose access to your phone or email, a recovery code is the only way to get back into your account.
Frequently asked questions
- What if I lose my phone?
- Use one of your recovery codes to log in. Then go to Security settings and set up 2FA again with your new phone, or switch to email verification.
- What if I don't get the email code?
- Check your spam or junk folder first. Then click "Send code" again to request a fresh one. Make sure you're checking the right email account — the one you use to sign in to BereaveGuide.
- Can I turn off 2FA?
- Yes — go to Account → Security and click "Disable 2FA". You'll need to verify your identity one more time to confirm. We recommend keeping 2FA enabled for maximum security.
- Is the authenticator app more secure than email?
- Both methods are far more secure than no 2FA at all. The authenticator app is slightly stronger because it doesn't rely on your email account being secure, but either is a good choice.