On October 16, 2025, PACER released an update that allows users with CM/ECF-level access (e.g., filers, interested parties, etc.) whose account search status becomes inactive due to search inactivity the ability to reset their own password without contacting the PACER Service Center (PSC)
Users with CM/ECF-level filing access can still file even if their search status shows as “inactive” due to six months of inactivity.
Some common questions are answered on the PACER website on the MFA Tips and Resources page. Please visit this page before contacting the PSC, as most issues can be handled by following the steps outlined on the website.
When to contact the PSC
You will need to contact the PSC to reactivate your PACER search status if your account has been deactivated.
When you do not need to contact the PSC
If you do not receive an MFA enrollment prompt when logging into PACER, no action is necessary.
If you receive an MFA enrollment prompt, you can enroll on your own by following the steps outlined on the MFA Tips and Resources page. Support from the PSC is not required for enrollment.
Thank you for your patience as the Judiciary works to reduce call wait times and strengthen account security. Contacting the PSC only when necessary, will help ensure support is available for those who have an urgent need.
PACER and CM/ECF Multi-Factor Authentication Rollout-May 2025
On May 11, 2025, the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) will begin implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to enhance system security for Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) and Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER). MFA provides an added layer of security to accounts by helping protect against cyberattacks that steal passwords, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
From mid-May to the end of 2025, users with any type of CM/ECF-level access who do not voluntarily enroll will be randomly selected to do so. By the end of 2025, everyone with CM/ECF-level access will be required to use MFA when logging in. Users with filing privileges and other types of CM/ECF-level access are encouraged to enroll in MFA at their earliest convenience to preserve uninterrupted access. Those who do not voluntarily enroll in MFA will be randomly selected to enroll starting in August 2025. These randomly selected CM/ECF users will be notified of the MFA requirement during login.
PACER-only accounts that do not have filing privileges in any court and only view or query will not be required to have MFA enabled but will have the option to enroll and it is recommended that they do so. All other accounts that can file in ECF will be required to enroll.
Authentication Options
Users can download any authentication application (app) that supports a time-based one-time password (TOTP). The AO and Courts do not endorse any specific apps, however, some options are suggested by PACER, which you can view on their website. Before enrolling in MFA, the AO recommends that users research available authentication apps to decide which one will work best for them and then download their preferred app. Users who use third-party software for filing in conjunction with CM/ECF should ensure MFA is supported by that software before enrolling to avoid any disruption in business processes.
Additionally, users who are unable to download an authentication app will be able to save one-time use backup codes. Once users have used all their backup codes, they will need to request a new batch.
Please continue to check the PACER website for more updates, resources, learning aids, and additional information on MFA.
If you have any questions, please contact the PACER Service Center at pacer@psc.uscourts.gov or (800) 676-6856. The PACER Service Center hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.