‼️ Important ‼️
For financial security, Xero requires multi-factor authentication
for any software to integrate with them.
What is Multi-factor Authentication?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an added layer of security used to verify your identity when logging in to an account. Instead of relying on just a username and password, MFA requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device or generated by an authentication app.
This extra step helps protect your sensitive information by making it much harder for unauthorized users to access your account, even if they have your password. In this article, we’ll explain how MFA works with Buildertrend and Xero accounts and how to set it up to keep your data secure.
When is Multi-factor Authentication required?
When you integrate your Buildertrend account with Xero, any user with the following permissions will automatically be enrolled in Multi-factor Authentication:
Mark Bill/PO as paid
View & Edit Invoices
Connect & Copy to Xero Contact
Send Invoices to Xero
Connect & Copy Xero Vendors
First Time Multi-factor Authentication Setup
The first time you log in after multi-factor authentication has been enabled on your account (this will occur automatically based on your Buildertrend permissions), you will be prompted to set up an authentication method.
You can choose to use an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy, or register your mobile phone number to receive security codes via SMS text messages.
SMS Text Authentication Setup
If you prefer to use SMS text messages for multi-factor authentication, select SMS as your authentication method. Enter your mobile phone number, then click Continue to proceed.
Next, enter the security code sent to your mobile phone to verify your authentication method, then click Continue to complete the multi-factor authentication setup.
‼️ Important ‼️
You will be provided with a Recovery Code. It is important to save this to a secure location. This will allow you to log in if you unable to receive SMS text notifications with your authentication code when logging in.
Authenticator App Authentication Setup
If you prefer to use an authentication app for multi-factor authentication, select the Google Authenticator or similar option as your method. You will then need to add Buildertrend to your authenticator app to complete the setup.
If you choose the Google Authenticator or similar option, you will need to install an authenticator app on your mobile device (if you do not already have one). The app can scan QR codes and retrieve authentication data for you.
Recommended authenticator apps include the following:
Google Authenticator: Provides synchronization across devices via Google Account
Microsoft Authenticator: Supports multiple users on the same device with enterprise integration
Authy: Offers cloud backup with encryption and unlimited device syncing
The screenshot examples below are utilizing
Authy as the authenticator app.
Once you have downloaded your preferred authentication app, scan the QR code from your authenticator app to add your Buildertrend account.
Next, enter the security code provided by your authenticator app to verify your authentication method, then click Continue to complete the multi-factor authentication setup.
‼️ Important ‼️
You will be provided with a Recovery Code. It is important to save this to a secure location. This will allow you to log in if you unable to receive SMS text notifications with your authentication code when logging in.
Logging In - Post MFA Setup
From now on, each time you log in to Buildertrend, you will need to verify your identity using the multi-factor authentication method you set up.
Watch the Clock ⏰
It is important to note that authenticator apps (like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator) generate codes that expire every 30 seconds. If you take too long to enter the code, it may change just as you hit “submit”.
💡ProTip: Before entering the code, check how much time is left on the countdown. If it's about to expire, wait for the next code to appear and use that one instead.
Interested in Learning More? 📚
The Buildertrend Learning Academy is your one-stop-shop for your online education, whether you're new to Buildertrend or an experienced user looking to learn more.
If you have any questions or require additional support, feel free to chat with us, send an email: support@buildertrend.com, or give us a call at 1-888-415-7149. We’re always happy to help.
Last Updated: 8/6/25