Other Ways to Ask “Who Is This?” Over Text

When you’re unsure who’s messaging you and want to ask without sounding rude or awkward, there are several polite and creative alternatives to saying “Who is this?” over text. Here are some tactful and casual ways to get the information you need.

Polite and Neutral Alternatives

• “Sorry, I don’t have this number saved. Who am I speaking with?”
• “Hey, just double-checking — who is this?”
• “Could you remind me who this is?”
• “Sorry, new phone — who’s this?”
• “Hi! I don’t recognize this number. May I ask who this is?”

Casual and Friendly Variations

• “Hey! Who’s this?”
• “Sorry, got a new phone and lost some contacts. Who’s texting me?”
• “Hey there! Can you tell me who this is?”
• “Not sure I’ve got the right name here — mind reminding me?”
• “I think I might be missing some context — who am I chatting with?”

Professional or Formal Options

• “Good afternoon, may I ask who is contacting me?”
• “Apologies, I don’t recognize this number. Can you identify yourself?”
• “May I ask who I’m speaking with?”
• “Kindly let me know your name.”

When You Suspect You Might Know the Person

• “Hey, is this [Name]?”
• “This number looks familiar, who is this?”
• “Just checking — who’s this?”

Conclusion

There are many respectful and conversational ways to ask “Who is this?” over text, depending on the context and your tone. Whether you’re keeping it professional, polite, or casual, these alternatives help you get the information you need without sounding confrontational or blunt.

FAQ

What is the best polite way to ask “Who is this?” over text?

A great polite option is: “Sorry, I don’t have this number saved. Who am I speaking with?”

Can I ask “Who is this?” without sounding rude?

Yes, by softening your wording and adding context like, “New phone, lost contacts — who’s this?”

How do I ask who it is if I think I know them?

You can say something like, “Hey, is this [Name]?” or “This number looks familiar, who is this?”

What’s a professional way to ask someone to identify themselves over text?

Try: “Good afternoon, may I ask who is contacting me?” or “May I ask who I’m speaking with?”