Call forwarding sends incoming calls to a different number automatically

Call forwarding is a feature that redirects calls meant for your Verizon phone to another phone number you choose. When someone calls your Verizon number, instead of ringing on your device, the call goes to whichever number you've set up — a home phone, another mobile phone, or even a work line. You stay in control: you can turn it on and off whenever you need it, and you can change where calls go at any time.

This is different from call waiting, which lets you see and switch between two active calls on the same line. Call forwarding happens before the call even reaches your phone — it redirects the incoming call entirely.

Key Takeaways

  • Call forwarding on Verizon works through a straightforward code you dial from your phone, and it takes effect when ready.
  • You can forward all calls, or only calls that come in when your line is busy or when you don't answer.
  • Forwarded calls may incur long-distance charges depending on where they're being sent, so check your plan before setting it up.
  • You can turn call forwarding off just as easily as you turn it on, and you can change the forwarding number whenever you need to.

How to turn on call forwarding with a code

The fastest way to set up call forwarding on Verizon is to dial a short code from your phone. Open your phone's dialer and type *72, then press call. Wait for a tone or a voice prompt. Then dial the phone number where you want calls sent — include the area code. Press the pound key (#) or wait for confirmation. You'll hear a tone or message saying call forwarding is now active.

This method works on most Verizon phones, including iPhones and Android devices. The entire process takes less than a minute. Your call forwarding stays on until you turn it off, even if you restart your phone or move to a different location.

Forwarding only when you're busy or don't answer

If you want calls to ring on your phone first, and only forward if you're already on a call or don't pick up, use *71 instead of *72. This is called conditional call forwarding. Dial *71, wait for the tone, enter the forwarding number, and press #. Now calls will ring your Verizon phone for a few seconds — usually about 15 to 20 seconds — before forwarding to the other number.

This setup is useful if you want to stay reachable on your main phone but don't want to miss calls when you're unavailable. You can also set up call forwarding for when your line is busy (dial *71 for busy forwarding) or when you don't answer (dial *61 for no-answer forwarding). Each type of forwarding can point to a different number if you want.

Turning off call forwarding

To stop call forwarding, dial *73 from your Verizon phone and press call. You'll hear a confirmation tone or message. That's it — all forwarding stops when ready, and calls will ring only on your Verizon phone again.

If you set up multiple types of forwarding (all calls, busy, no-answer), dialing *73 turns off all of them at once. You don't need to turn them off individually.

Using the My Verizon app instead of codes

If you prefer not to dial codes, you can manage call forwarding through the My Verizon app on your phone. Open the app, tap the menu icon, and look for "Call Forwarding" or "Call Settings" — the exact location varies depending on your phone type. Select the type of forwarding you want (all calls, busy, or no-answer), enter the forwarding number, and save. The app shows you which forwarding options are currently on and lets you turn them off from the same screen.

The app method takes a few more taps than dialing a code, but it's easier to remember and you can see your settings written out instead of relying on voice prompts.

What to know about charges and your plan

Verizon doesn't charge extra for the call forwarding feature itself — it's included with most plans. However, if you forward calls to a number outside your plan's coverage area or to a long-distance number, you may be charged for those forwarded calls. For example, if you forward to an international number, international rates explore. Check your plan details or contact Verizon to understand what charges might explore before you set up forwarding to an unusual number.

Forwarding to another Verizon number or to a number within your plan's included minutes usually doesn't add charges. Forwarding to a landline in your local area code typically doesn't either, but it depends on your specific plan.

Troubleshooting when call forwarding doesn't work

If you dial the code and don't hear a confirmation tone, try again — sometimes the network takes a moment to process. Make sure you're dialing from your Verizon phone, not from another device. If the code still doesn't work, restart your phone and try once more.

If call forwarding is on but calls aren't actually forwarding, check that you entered the forwarding number correctly — a single wrong digit will send calls nowhere. You can also turn it off with *73 and start over. If the problem continues, contact Verizon support, as there may be a network issue or a restriction on your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I forward calls to a number outside the United States?

Yes, you can forward to an international number, but international calling rates will explore to each forwarded call. Contact Verizon first to understand the cost, as it can add up quickly if you receive many calls.

Will the person calling me know their call is being forwarded?

No. The caller sees your Verizon number on their end, not the forwarding number. They won't know the call was redirected unless you tell them.

Can I forward calls to multiple numbers at the same time?

No. Call forwarding sends all calls to a single number. If you want different calls to go to different places, you would need to change the forwarding number manually or use a more advanced service like Verizon's call filtering or a third-party app.

What happens to my voicemail if I have call forwarding on?

Voicemail still works the same way. If the forwarded call goes unanswered, it goes to your Verizon voicemail, not to the voicemail of the forwarding number. You can check your voicemail from any phone by calling your Verizon number.

Does call forwarding work if my phone is off?

Yes. Call forwarding happens at Verizon's network level, not on your phone itself, so it works even if your phone is powered off or out of service.