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How to enable Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) in Planday

Learn how to configure and set Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) in Planday.

Saad Saeed avatar
Written by Saad Saeed
Updated over 2 weeks ago

🔓 Access level in Planday: Administrator, Employees.

🌐 Subscription plan: Any.

⏱️ Reading time: 3 min.

ℹ️ Important read: How to log into Planday.


What is Multi-factor Authentication?

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA), also known as two-factor authentication (2FA), adds an extra layer of security to your Planday account and helps prevent unauthorised access.

In addition to a username and password, MFA requires a verification code when logging in. You can choose how employees receive this code, depending on the authentication methods you enable.


How to enable or disable MFA in Planday

Important information about MFA:
Please note the following before enabling Multi-factor Authentication:

  • MFA is not enabled by default.

  • Once enabled, MFA applies to the entire Planday workspace. Individual employees cannot be excluded.

  • MFA is mandatory if your Planday workspace is integrated with a Xero organisation.

  1. Go to Planday web > Settings > Security > Multi-factor authentication

  2. Select which authentication methods you want to allow by clicking Enable or Disable next to:

    • Authenticator app

    • SMS

If you disable an MFA method, it will be removed from all employees who currently have it set up.


If at least one other method remains enabled, employees will be prompted to set up MFA again the next time they log in using the remaining allowed method.


Login process with MFA

If MFA is enabled in your workspace or if you are connected to a Xero organisation, you and your employees must use MFA to log in.

  • Step 1

    Enter your username and password. If MFA isn’t set up yet, you’ll be prompted to configure it.

  • Step 2

    Choose your preferred authentication method:
    Option A: SMS

    Enter a valid phone number (it does not need to match the number in your Planday profile). You’ll receive a one-time code by SMS. There is no SMS charge for MFA use.

    Option B: Authenticator app
    Scan the QR code using an authenticator app, or manually enter the setup code. Use the 6-digit code generated by the app to verify your account.

  • Step 3

    On future logins, enter the verification code sent via SMS or generated by your authenticator app to complete the login.

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Remember MFA settings for future logins

When logging in with MFA, you can select ☑️ Remember me for 30 days.

  • If selected, you won’t be asked to use MFA again for 30 days

  • This applies even if you log in on multiple devices

  • If not selected, MFA will be required again at your next login


How to reset MFA for an employee

Admins and HR managers can reset MFA for an employee if they experience login issues or cannot retrieve their verification code.

After a reset, the employee will need to set up MFA again the next time they log in.

To reset MFA:

  1. Go to Planday web > People > Employees

  2. Select the employee

  3. Click Edit employee

  4. Go to User Actions

  5. Select Reset multi-factor authentication

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