Call forwarding sends incoming calls to a different phone number automatically

Call forwarding is a feature that redirects calls meant for one phone number to another number you choose. When someone calls your main number, the call rings on whichever phone you've set up to receive it instead — or rings on multiple phones at once. You control where calls go, and you can turn forwarding on or off whenever you need to.

The setup takes minutes and works on most phone plans. You don't need new equipment or a separate line. Your original number stays the same; only the destination changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Call forwarding redirects incoming calls to a different phone number that you choose, and you can turn it on or off anytime.
  • Most carriers let you set up call forwarding through your phone's settings, a code you dial, or your online account.
  • You can forward all calls, only calls you miss, or calls that come in when your phone is busy.
  • Call forwarding uses your regular phone plan minutes, so forwarded calls count toward your monthly limit the same way direct calls do.
  • If the forwarding destination doesn't answer, the call typically goes to voicemail on that phone, not back to your original number.

How to set up call forwarding on your phone

The method depends on your phone type and carrier. On an iPhone, go to Settings, then Phone, then Call Forwarding. Toggle it on and enter the phone number where you want calls to go. On Android, open Phone, tap the three-dot menu, go to Settings, then Call Forwarding, and enter your destination number.

If your phone doesn't have a built-in call forwarding option, you can use a code instead. Dial *72 followed by the phone number you want to forward to, then press call. To turn it off, dial *73. These codes work on most carriers including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, though some carriers use different codes — check your carrier's website if *72 doesn't work.

You can also set up call forwarding through your carrier's website or app. Log into your account, find the call forwarding or call settings section, and enter the destination number. Changes usually take effect within minutes.

Different types of call forwarding

Unconditional forwarding sends every call to your chosen number when ready. This is the most common type and what most people mean when they say "call forwarding."

Busy forwarding only redirects calls when your phone is already in use on another call. If you're on a call and someone else tries to reach you, that new call goes to the number you set up instead of going to voicemail.

No answer forwarding sends calls to your chosen number only if you don't pick up within a set number of rings — usually 4 to 6 rings depending on your carrier. This is useful if you want to answer calls yourself when you can, but have a backup number ring if you're unavailable.

Selective forwarding lets you forward calls from specific numbers only. You create a list of numbers that should be forwarded while other calls ring normally on your phone. This feature is less common and may require your carrier's support to set up.

What happens to minutes and voicemail

Forwarded calls use your regular phone plan minutes just like calls that ring directly on your phone. If you have unlimited calling, forwarding doesn't change anything. If you have a limited monthly allowance, each forwarded call counts against it.

When a forwarded call reaches the destination number, it behaves like any other incoming call on that phone. If the person doesn't answer, the call goes to that phone's voicemail, not back to your original number. The caller hears the voicemail greeting for the destination phone, not your greeting.

Text messages do not forward — only voice calls. If you need texts to reach another number, you'll need to set up a separate text forwarding feature through your carrier, which is less common and may not be available on all plans.

When call forwarding stops working

Call forwarding turns off automatically if you switch phones or change carriers, so you'll need to set it up again on your new device or plan. Some carriers also disable forwarding if you don't use it for an extended period — usually 30 to 90 days — as a security measure.

If calls aren't forwarding when you expect them to, check that the feature is actually turned on in your settings. Restart your phone and try again. If the destination number is unreachable — for example, if it's disconnected or blocked — calls may fail to forward and go to voicemail instead.

International numbers sometimes don't work with call forwarding, depending on your carrier. If you're trying to forward to a number outside the United States, contact your carrier to confirm it's supported on your plan.

Call forwarding versus other redirection features

Call forwarding redirects calls automatically to a number you choose. Call waiting is different — it alerts you that another call is coming in while you're already on a call, letting you switch between them. Call waiting doesn't send the call anywhere; it just notifies you.

Do Not Disturb silences incoming calls and texts without forwarding them anywhere. The calls go straight to voicemail. Call screening (available on newer Android phones and iPhones) lets you see who's calling and decide whether to answer, decline, or send a message before the call even rings.

Voicemail is where calls go when you don't answer. Call forwarding sends calls to another phone before they reach voicemail. You can use both together — forward calls to another number, and if that number doesn't answer, the call goes to voicemail on that phone.

Security and privacy considerations

Call forwarding is convenient, but it means calls to your number ring on a different phone. If that phone is lost, stolen, or used by someone else, they'll receive your calls. Turn off forwarding if you're lending your backup phone to someone temporarily.

Scammers sometimes try to set up call forwarding on someone else's phone to intercept calls. If you notice calls aren't reaching you and you didn't set up forwarding, contact your carrier when ready. They can disable it and help you find your account.

Be cautious about forwarding to numbers you don't fully trust. Once forwarding is active, the destination phone receives your calls and can see the caller information. Only forward to phones you control or to people you trust completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most carriers' standard call forwarding sends calls to one number only. However, some carriers offer simultaneous ringing or ring all features that make multiple phones ring at once when you receive a call. Check with your carrier to see if this is available on your plan.

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

No. The caller sees your original number on their screen and hears your voicemail greeting if they reach voicemail. They have no way to know the call was forwarded to a different phone unless you tell them.

What if I want to forward calls only during certain hours?

Most phone carriers don't offer time-based call forwarding through their standard features. You would need to manually turn forwarding on and off at the times you want it active, or use a third-party app that handles conditional forwarding based on time of day.

Can I forward calls from my work phone to my personal phone?

Yes, if your work phone plan supports call forwarding. However, check with your employer first — some companies disable this feature for security reasons or require you to use their official forwarding system instead.

What happens if the forwarded number is busy?

If the destination phone is already in use, the incoming call typically goes to voicemail on that phone rather than ringing. Some carriers offer busy forwarding as a separate feature that only activates when the destination is busy, sending the call elsewhere instead.