How to Get a Fax Number for My Printer: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Your printer doesn't come with a fax number — you have to get one. There are two ways: connect an analog phone line (your line's number becomes the fax number) or sign up for a virtual fax number (no landline required). This guide covers both, with setup steps for HP, Brother, Canon, and Epson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my printer come with a fax number?
No. Printers do not ship with a pre-assigned fax number. The number comes from the phone line connected to your printer (your carrier assigns it) or from an online fax service you sign up for. You choose which method fits your setup.
Can I get a fax number for my printer without a phone line?
Yes. Sign up for an online fax service like [mFax Business](https://mfax.to/business/) and you get a real fax number instantly — no landline required. Incoming faxes arrive as PDFs in your email. To send, scan the document with your printer and upload it to the fax service.
How long does it take to get a fax number for my printer?
With an online fax service, you can have a working fax number in under 5 minutes. A traditional phone line from your carrier typically takes 1–5 business days to activate, plus additional time to configure the printer.
What is the fax number on my HP, Brother, Canon, or Epson printer?
The fax number is the phone number of the analog landline connected to the printer's LINE port. To find it, call a mobile phone from the handset attached to the same line — the caller ID shows the number. You can also call your phone carrier and ask what number is assigned to that line.
Does VoIP work with a printer's fax function?
Not reliably. Most VoIP services use audio compression (G.729 codec) that corrupts fax signals. If VoIP is your only option, use an online fax service instead — it's more reliable and typically cheaper than maintaining a dedicated analog fax line.