Forward calls sends incoming calls to a different phone number automatically
Call forwarding is a phone feature that redirects calls meant for one number to another number you choose. When someone calls your main number, the phone system sends that call to your forwarding number instead — or in addition to — ringing your original phone. You stay reachable without having to answer on the original device.
The feature works on landlines, mobile phones, and internet-based phone services. Your phone company or service provider controls the forwarding rules, so the redirection happens at their network level, not on your device. This means call forwarding works even if your original phone is turned off, out of range, or sitting in another room.
Call forwarding is different from call waiting, which lets you know another call is coming in while you are already on a call. It is also different from voicemail, which records a message when you do not answer. Forwarding actively sends the call somewhere else in real time.
Key Takeaways
- Call forwarding redirects incoming calls to a different phone number you set up, so you can take calls on a device that is more convenient for you.
- You can set up forwarding through your phone provider's website, app, or by dialing a code on your phone — the method depends on whether you have a mobile plan, a landline, or a VoIP service.
- Forwarding can send calls to one number, multiple numbers in sequence, or ring both your original phone and the forwarding number at the same time.
- You can turn forwarding on and off whenever you need it, and you can change the forwarding number without calling customer service.
- Some forwarding options charge per minute or per call, especially for long-distance or international forwarding, so check your plan before setting it up.
How to turn on call forwarding on your phone
The steps depend on what type of phone service you have. On most mobile phones, you go into Settings, find the Phone or Calls section, and look for Call Forwarding. You enter the number you want calls sent to, then toggle the feature on. The exact menu names vary between iPhone and Android, and between carriers.
On a landline, you usually dial a code from your phone — typically *72 followed by the forwarding number and then the # key. Dialing *73 turns it off. Some landline providers use different codes, so check your bill or call your provider if those do not work.
If you use a VoIP service like Google Voice, Vonage, or Ooma, you log into your account online and set the forwarding number in your settings. These services often let you set up multiple forwarding numbers and choose whether calls ring all of them at once or try them one at a time.
After you set up forwarding, test it by calling your original number from another phone. If the call reaches your forwarding number, the feature is working. If it does not, check that you entered the number correctly and that forwarding is actually turned on.
Different types of call forwarding and when to use them
Unconditional forwarding sends every call to your forwarding number, no matter what. Use this when you want all calls redirected and you do not need your original phone to ring at all.
Busy forwarding only activates when your original phone line is already in use. If you are on a call, new incoming calls go to the forwarding number. If you are not on a call, they ring your original phone. This is useful if you have a single phone line and do not want to miss calls while you are talking.
No-answer forwarding sends calls to your forwarding number only if you do not pick up your original phone after a set number of rings — usually 4 to 6. This gives you a chance to answer, but redirects calls if you are unavailable. Many people use this to forward to voicemail or to a second phone.
Simultaneous forwarding rings both your original number and your forwarding number at the same time. Whichever phone you answer first takes the call, and the other stops ringing. This is useful if you carry multiple devices and want to pick up on whichever is closest.
What happens to your caller ID when you use forwarding
When a call is forwarded, the person calling usually sees your original number on their caller ID, not the forwarding number. This is because the call still originates from your original number — it is just being sent somewhere else. The caller has no way to know the call was forwarded unless you tell them.
Some VoIP services and phone providers let you change what appears on the caller ID when you forward calls. For example, you might set it to show your original number, your forwarding number, or a custom name. Check your service provider's settings to see what options are available.
If you forward calls to an international number, the caller may see a different number or a message saying the call is being forwarded. International forwarding can also add charges to your bill, so confirm the cost before setting it up.
Costs and limits of call forwarding
Most mobile phone plans include call forwarding at no extra charge. You can turn it on and off as often as you want without paying per use. However, if you forward calls to an international number, your carrier may charge you for the forwarded call as if you had made an outgoing call to that country.
Landline providers often include basic call forwarding in their service plan, but some charge a monthly fee — usually a few dollars — to enable the feature. Check your bill or contact your provider to see whether forwarding is included or costs extra.
VoIP services vary widely. Some include unlimited forwarding to any number. Others charge per forwarded call or per minute. A few limit how many forwarding numbers you can set up. Read the terms of your service plan or log into your account to see what forwarding options come with what you are paying for.
If you forward to a number that is not included in your plan — such as a long-distance or international number — you may be charged as if you had called that number yourself. This can add up quickly if you receive many calls. Consider using a local forwarding number or a VoIP service that includes the forwarding destination in its plan.
Troubleshooting forwarding that is not working
If calls are not reaching your forwarding number, first check that forwarding is actually turned on. Go back into your phone settings or your provider's website and confirm the feature is enabled. Then verify that you entered the forwarding number correctly — a single wrong digit will break the whole setup.
If the number is correct and forwarding is on, try turning it off and back on again. This resets the feature and often fixes temporary glitches. Wait a few minutes between turning it off and back on.
If forwarding still is not working, check whether your phone plan or service includes the feature. Some basic or prepaid plans do not offer call forwarding. If your plan does include it, contact your phone provider's customer service. They can check whether forwarding is active on their end and troubleshoot from there.
If you are forwarding to a mobile phone and calls are not coming through, make sure that phone has service and is not in airplane mode. Also check that the number you entered includes the correct area code and country code if it is long-distance.
Call forwarding versus other ways to stay reachable
Call forwarding is one option, but not always the best one. If you want to screen calls before answering, voicemail or a call screening app works better — forwarding sends every call through automatically. If you want to answer on multiple devices at once, simultaneous forwarding or a service like Google Voice lets you do that.
If you need to switch between different phone numbers depending on the situation — work calls to one number, personal calls to another — a service like Google Voice or a business phone app gives you more control than basic call forwarding. These services let you set rules based on who is calling, what time it is, or what day of the week it is.
If you are trying to hide your real phone number from callers, call forwarding does not help — your original number still shows on their caller ID. A VoIP service or a private calling app is better for that purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I forward calls to multiple numbers at the same time?
Yes, if your phone service supports it. Most VoIP services and some mobile carriers let you set up simultaneous forwarding, which rings multiple numbers at once. Some services also offer sequential forwarding, which tries the first number, then the second, then the third if the previous ones do not answer. Check your provider's settings to see which option is available.
Will I be charged for forwarded calls?
Not usually, unless you forward to a long-distance or international number. Most mobile plans and landline services include call forwarding at no extra cost. However, if the forwarding number is outside your plan's included area, you may be charged as if you had called that number yourself. Check your plan details or contact your provider.
Can I set up call forwarding if my phone is off?
Yes. Call forwarding works at your phone company's network level, not on your device. Even if your phone is powered off, in airplane mode, or out of range, calls will still be forwarded to the number you set up. This is why forwarding is useful for making sure you do not miss calls.
What is the difference between call forwarding and call waiting?
Call forwarding sends incoming calls to a different number automatically. Call waiting alerts you that another call is coming in while you are already on a call, so you can switch between them. They serve different purposes — forwarding redirects calls, while call waiting helps you manage multiple calls on the same line.
Can I turn off call forwarding without calling my provider?
Yes. You can turn off call forwarding the same way you turned it on — through your phone settings, your provider's app or website, or by dialing the code on your phone. On most landlines, dialing *73 turns off forwarding when ready. On mobile phones and VoIP services, you go into settings and toggle the feature off.