Navigating the PACER MFA Chaos: Tips for Attorneys and Paralegals

Let’s be honest: no one ever said, “Let’s talk about PACER.” Yet here it is, suddenly demanding your attention like opposing counsel filing a last-minute motion on a Friday afternoon. The latest PACER update requires multifactor authentication (MFA), and overnight, attorneys, paralegals, and IT teams found themselves juggling authenticator apps, password managers, and security codes like performers in a circus act.

If you’ve been scrambling to find passwords from the Jurassic era or clicking through endless PACER menus trying to locate where to add MFA apps, you’re not alone. IT departments have even assigned a “PACER MFA person,” the legal tech equivalent of being volunteered as tribute. Meanwhile, PACER support lines have become a nightmare with hours-long waits and hold music that tests your patience.

This post will help you cut through the chaos with practical tips and clear steps to get your PACER MFA setup running smoothly.

Understanding PACER’s MFA Requirement

PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) introduced multifactor authentication to improve security and protect sensitive court data. While this is a positive step, the sudden rollout caught many legal professionals off guard.

MFA means you need two or more verification methods to access your PACER account. Typically, this involves:

• Something you know (your password)

• Something you have (an authenticator app or backup code)

  
  

While adding an extra layer of security preventing unauthorized access, it adds complexity to the login process.

Common Challenges with PACER MFA

Many attorneys and paralegals have reported similar frustrations:

• Lost or forgotten passwords from years ago, making initial login difficult - may have to reset the password.

• Difficulty finding where to update email information for PACER billing - this email may\can be different than the email for e-filing notification. Update it under the "Settings" tab, "Update PACER billing email". This email is where security codes will be sent, NOT to be confused with MFA codes.

• Difficulty finding where to enable MFA - under the "Settings" tab, "Manage MFA Settings".

• Confusion about which authenticator apps to use - Microsoft is a good one, but there are many others.

• Difficulty setting up for multiple filers (paralegals, legal admin assistants) for each attorney account - different ways to set up admin assist.

These challenges can slow down your workflow and increase stress, especially when deadlines loom.

Step-by-Step Setting Up PACER MFA

Here’s a straightforward approach to get your PACER MFA up and running:

1. Choose an Authenticator App  

   PACER supports common apps like Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator and others. You may also choose to use password software like 1Password or a third party vendor (at monthly cost). Make sure you have one of these apps\software on your smartphone and\or computer.

2. Log In to Your PACER Account

   Visit the official PACER website, pacer.gov, and sign in with your username and password.

3. Locate the MFA Setup Section

   After logging in, go to “Settings” tab and look for “Manage MFA”. This is where you will add your authentication method.

4. You will be prompted with a security code sent to your email.

5. Scan the QR Code or Enter the Setup Key

   Use your authenticator app to scan the QR code displayed on PACER or enter the provided setup key manually. Or copy the code into your software.

6. Verify the Code

   The app will generate a 6-digit code. Enter this code in PACER to confirm the setup.

7. Save Backup Codes

   Start the process again and select Backup Codes in case you lose access to your authenticator app. Store these codes securely, such as in a password manager or a locked drawer.

8. Test Your Login

   Log out and try logging back in to ensure MFA is working correctly.

What to Do When PACER Support Is Overwhelmed

Try these alternatives:

• Visit the PACER FAQ and Help Center online for step-by-step guides. Unfortunately, PACER isn't much better at responding to email inquiries at this time.

• Coordinate with your firm’s IT department or designated PACER MFA person.

  
  

Authenticator app showing PACER MFA code

Best Practices to Avoid Future PACER MFA Headaches

• Regularly update passwords and store them securely. PACER will be prompting password change every 6 months.

• Update your email for PACER billing as needed. (We will go into this further in another blog.)

• Keep your authenticator app updated and backed up.

• Train all team members on MFA procedures.

• Schedule periodic reviews of PACER account access and security settings.

• Stay informed about PACER updates by subscribing to official announcements.

This post is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views of Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP.