Fix GoHighLevel SMS From Number Error

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How to Fix the “Not a valid SMS capable From number” Error in GoHighLevel

If you are sending SMS campaigns from ClickUp tasks or any other workflow and see the “Not a valid SMS capable From number” message in GoHighLevel, it means the phone number selected as the sender cannot send text messages. This step-by-step guide explains what the error means, why it happens, and how to fix it quickly so your SMS functions work correctly.

What the GoHighLevel SMS From Number Error Means

When GoHighLevel shows the error “Not a valid SMS capable From number,” the system is telling you that the From phone number used in your workflow, campaign, or direct SMS is not recognized as an SMS-capable number by the connected provider.

This usually appears when:

  • The selected phone number is voice-only and cannot send SMS.
  • The number is not provisioned correctly for SMS by your carrier or sub-account.
  • You are using a number format or sender ID that the provider does not accept as SMS capable.

Until you correct the configuration, GoHighLevel will block the SMS send to prevent failures.

Common Causes of the GoHighLevel SMS Error

The error originates from the telephony provider that GoHighLevel is connected to. The most common reasons are:

  • Using a non-SMS-capable number (for example, a voice-only line).
  • Incorrect number assignment inside the sub-account or location.
  • Attempting to send SMS from a landline that has not been enabled for texting.
  • Provider limitations for certain countries, regions, or number types.

Because GoHighLevel passes your message to the provider, it must use a number that the provider explicitly marks as SMS capable.

How to Troubleshoot the GoHighLevel SMS From Number Issue

Follow these steps in order to identify and correct the error. Each step focuses on confirming that your selected From number is truly SMS enabled.

Step 1: Confirm the Exact Error in GoHighLevel

  1. Open your GoHighLevel account and go to the area where the SMS failed (for example, Conversations, Workflows, or Campaign logs).
  2. Locate the message that did not send.
  3. Check the error details for the text: “Not a valid SMS capable From number”.

Confirming the exact message ensures you are dealing with this specific sender number issue and not a different SMS error.

Step 2: Verify That the Number Is SMS Capable

The next step is to make sure your phone number is actually set up to send SMS. In GoHighLevel, this usually involves checking the number’s configuration in your location or sub-account.

  1. Go to Settings in your GoHighLevel location.
  2. Click on Phone Numbers (or the telephony section used in your account).
  3. Find the number you are using as the From number.
  4. Confirm that the number is labeled or documented as SMS capable with your provider.

If the number is not SMS enabled, you will need to purchase or assign a new number that supports texting.

Step 3: Check That the Correct From Number Is Selected

Even if you own an SMS-capable number, GoHighLevel must be configured to use it as the sender in each relevant workflow or campaign:

  1. Open the Workflow or Campaign that is sending SMS.
  2. Locate the Send SMS or SMS step.
  3. Check the From number field and make sure the correct SMS-capable number is selected.
  4. If a different non-SMS number is selected, change it to the SMS-capable number and save.

After saving, test again by sending a message to a test contact.

Step 4: Use a Different SMS-Capable Number

If your existing number cannot be enabled for SMS or still fails after verification, use another number in your GoHighLevel account that is confirmed as SMS capable.

  1. In Settings > Phone Numbers, add or purchase a new number that clearly supports SMS.
  2. Assign this new number as the default for SMS in your location, if available.
  3. Update your workflow or campaign From setting to use this new number.
  4. Send a test SMS to confirm the error no longer appears.

This is often the fastest way to bypass provider limitations on specific numbers.

Provider-Level Considerations for GoHighLevel SMS

The error is generated by the phone carrier or telephony provider that GoHighLevel integrates with. Some key considerations include:

  • Certain regions require specific number types (mobile vs. landline vs. toll-free) for SMS.
  • Some numbers might be voice-only by default and require additional setup for SMS.
  • Compliance rules may restrict SMS sending from special numbers or short codes.

If you have verified all settings inside GoHighLevel and the error persists, you may need help from support or your number provider.

When to Contact GoHighLevel Support

If none of the above steps resolve the error, capture the exact details and contact the official help desk.

  • Document the phone number you are using.
  • Take screenshots of the error message.
  • Provide the workflow or campaign name where the SMS is failing.

You can reference the official help article directly at this GoHighLevel support page so support can verify your configuration and provider status.

Best Practices for Reliable GoHighLevel SMS Sending

To prevent future issues with the “Not a valid SMS capable From number” error, follow these best practices when working with GoHighLevel and your telephony provider:

  • Centralize your SMS-capable numbers and document which ones are allowed for SMS.
  • Standardize From numbers across workflows so each funnel uses confirmed SMS-capable lines.
  • Test new numbers immediately after purchase by sending to internal test contacts.
  • Monitor error logs in GoHighLevel regularly so you catch configuration problems early.

These habits will improve the reliability of your automations and campaigns.

How Agencies Can Streamline GoHighLevel SMS Setup

Agencies managing multiple sub-accounts should implement a consistent process for provisioning SMS numbers and setting defaults. This includes:

  • Including SMS-capable number setup in all new location checklists.
  • Training team members on how to select the correct From number in each GoHighLevel workflow.
  • Maintaining an internal record of which numbers are SMS enabled, voice only, or reserved for specific brands.

For additional implementation strategies, you can consult specialists at Consultevo, who help agencies optimize and standardize GoHighLevel deployments.

Summary: Restoring SMS Sending in GoHighLevel

The “Not a valid SMS capable From number” error appears when your selected sender line cannot send SMS through your provider. To fix it, you should:

  1. Confirm the error inside GoHighLevel message logs.
  2. Verify that the number is truly SMS capable with your provider.
  3. Ensure the correct SMS-capable From number is selected in workflows and campaigns.
  4. Switch to or purchase a new SMS-capable number if needed.
  5. Contact support with full details if the issue persists.

By following these structured steps, you can quickly restore SMS sending, keep your automations running smoothly, and maintain reliable communication with your contacts inside GoHighLevel.

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