How to Get Missed Text Messages when Phone is Turned Off

Text messages can be received by an active cell phone account even when the user's cell phone is turned off. The messages are stored on the cell phone service provider's servers. The servers attempt to send the message over and over until the phone confirms reception of the message. Messages sent when the phone is off may come all at once when the phone is powered on or come slowly over a period of a few minutes depending on the number of stored messages.

If the phone is off:

Hold down the power button on the phone until the phone start up screen appears.

Wait for the home screen to appear. Once the "signal bars" appear in the top of the screen indicating service is available, proceed to Step 3.

Navigate to the "Messages" or "Text Messaging" icon on your home screen or by pressing the "Main Menu" key followed by selected "Messages." Browse old messages and wait a few minutes for any messages received while the phone was turned off to be sent from the provider's servers to your phone.

If the phone does not function:

Turn the phone over and remove the back cover. Lift the battery out and locate the "SIM" card, usually a white and gold card about the size of a human thumbnail.

Obtain a cell phone on the same cell phone provider's network, such as a friend or family member's phone, and remove the battery. Remove their SIM card and insert your SIM card. Replace the battery and turn the phone on.

Navigate to the "Main Menu" and select "Messages." Wait for any new messages to download from the provider's servers to the phone.

Keep your phone turned on whenever service is available to ensure messages are received soon after they are sent.

Some cell phone service providers do not use SIM cards with their phone handsets. In this case you will need to take your phone to one of your provider's stores or call their support if your phone will not turn on.