Setting up Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is required for all Float user logins (unless your business has enabled SAML authentication). The process to set up your MFA method is very quick and easy, and this article breaks it down for you step by step.  For instructions on how to change or reset your MFA method, visit our help centre article: Resetting Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

How to set up your MFA method

You’ll be prompted to set up an MFA method when you log in at app.floatfinancial.com or in the Float mobile app if:

• You're signing in for the first time
• Your MFA was reset

Float MFA supports Time-Based One-Time Passcodes (TOTP) delivered by:

• A third-party authenticator app (recommended)
• SMS

Float MFA Alternative Options:

• Security Key

MFA via a third-party authenticator app

To set up MFA using an authenticator, you will first have to download a third-party authenticator app from your mobile app store. Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator and Authy are examples of third-party apps that can be used to set this up.

How to set up MFA on an authenticator once it has been installed and set up:

1. Click "Add" or "+" on your authenticator app
2. Scan the QR code
3. Enter the newly generated 6-digit TOTP
4. Click "Continue"
5. Your MFA method is now set up

If you are ever prompted to enter the code again upon sign-in, simply head back to your authenticator app to find the newly generated 6-digit code

MFA via SMS

If you do not wish to download a third-party app and want to set up MFA via SMS, then click "Use text message instead" at the bottom of the page with the QR code.

This will direct you to a screen that shows all available MFA methods at Float. Select 'Text Message'.

Please note: UK phone numbers are not supported for MFA via SMS at this time. We are working with SMS providers to resolve this limitation. In the interim, please use an authenticator app as your MFA method if you have a UK-based phone number.

How to set up MFA via SMS

1. 1. Enter your mobile number to receive a 6-digit TOTP
   2. Click "Continue"
   3. You will receive an SMS with the 6-digit TOTP
   4. Enter the 6-digit code in Float to authenticate
   5. You have now set up SMS as your MFA method

Some important considerations:

• The next time you log in, if your employer requires you to authenticate, you will receive a TOTP via SMS at the number entered initially.
• Registering your phone number for MFA via SMS is a separate workflow from adding a phone number to your Float account and will need to be set outside of your Float profile settings.
• All MFA texts will be sent from +1 (548) 483-5636, so adding this number to your spender's contact list will ensure the number is never forgotten

MFA via Security Key

If you wish to use a FIDO Security Key (e.g.: YubiKey) as your authentication method, click "Security Key" when setting up MFA and follow the prompts to connect and activate your Security Key. 

Save the recovery code generated at the end of this setup.

Once your FIDO Security Key has been set up, you will also be presented with the option of setting up FIDO device biometrics. If your system has device biometrics (e.g.: Fingerprint scanners, Face ID, Windows Hello etc.)