How to Forward Calls On Verizon Wireless: Your Definitive Guide
Learn how to forward calls on Verizon Wireless quickly and easily using your phone’s settings, the My Verizon app, or dial codes, ensuring you never miss an important call when you’re unavailable. This process allows you to reroute incoming calls to another phone number.
Understanding Call Forwarding on Verizon
Call forwarding is an incredibly useful feature that allows you to redirect incoming calls to a different phone number. Whether you’re traveling, in a meeting, or simply prefer to answer calls on a different device, call forwarding ensures you don’t miss important conversations. Verizon Wireless offers several ways to activate and customize this feature, catering to diverse user needs.
Benefits of Using Call Forwarding
The benefits of using call forwarding are numerous. They include:
- Never Miss Important Calls: Ensures you receive calls even when you’re unavailable on your primary device.
- Improved Productivity: Allows you to focus on tasks without being constantly interrupted.
- Enhanced Flexibility: Easily manage call flow between multiple devices based on your location or availability.
- Business Continuity: Ideal for businesses ensuring seamless communication even during staff absences.
Methods to Forward Calls on Verizon Wireless
There are three primary methods for activating call forwarding on your Verizon Wireless phone: using the dial code method (Vertical Service Codes or VSC), leveraging the phone’s built-in settings, or utilizing the My Verizon mobile app.
Dial Code Method (VSC)
The dial code method is a quick and easy way to activate, deactivate, or check the status of call forwarding. It involves dialing specific codes directly from your phone’s keypad. Here are the key codes:
- Activate Call Forwarding (Immediate):
72 + [Forward-to Number](e.g., 729085551212) - Deactivate Call Forwarding:
73 - Check Call Forwarding Status:
73(Note: This code both deactivates and checks status)
Phone Settings Method
Many smartphones offer call forwarding options within the phone’s settings menu. The exact location of this feature may vary slightly depending on your phone’s operating system (Android or iOS) and manufacturer.
- For Android: Generally found under Phone App > Settings > Calling Accounts > Call Forwarding
- For iPhone: Generally found under Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding
This method allows you to easily enable/disable call forwarding and enter the forward-to number.
My Verizon App Method
The My Verizon app provides a user-friendly interface for managing your account, including call forwarding settings.
- Download and install the My Verizon app from your device’s app store (if you haven’t already).
- Log in using your Verizon Wireless account credentials.
- Navigate to the “Account” or “Manage” section.
- Look for “Call Forwarding” or “Call Management” options. The labeling can vary slightly by device/app version.
- Enter the number you want to forward your calls to.
- Save the settings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When setting up call forwarding, avoid these common mistakes:
- Forgetting to Deactivate: Always deactivate call forwarding when you no longer need it to avoid missing calls on your primary device.
- Entering the Wrong Number: Double-check the forward-to number to ensure accuracy.
- Not Testing: Test the call forwarding after activation to verify that it is working correctly.
- Ignoring International Forwarding Costs: Be aware of potential international call forwarding charges if forwarding to a number outside the U.S.
Comparing Call Forwarding Methods
| Feature | Dial Code Method (VSC) | Phone Settings Method | My Verizon App Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Very Quick & Simple | User-Friendly | User-Friendly |
| Accessibility | Available on Any Phone | Requires Smartphone | Requires Smartphone & App |
| Customization | Limited | More Options | More Options |
| Status Checking | Difficult to verify | Easy | Easy |
| Dependence on App | No | No | Yes |
Call Forwarding Conditions
Verizon Wireless call forwarding offers the capability to forward calls in the following circumstances:
- Unconditional: All incoming calls are forwarded immediately.
- No Answer: Calls are forwarded only if you don’t answer after a specified number of rings.
- Busy: Calls are forwarded when you’re already on another call.
- Unreachable: Calls are forwarded when your phone is off or out of coverage. Note: Some legacy Verizon accounts may have limitations on certain conditional forwarding options. Check your account for availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a fee for using call forwarding on Verizon Wireless?
Generally, Verizon Wireless does not charge a monthly fee for standard call forwarding. However, the minutes used for the forwarded calls are charged according to your existing calling plan. Be aware that international call forwarding can incur significant charges. Always verify charges before forwarding to an international number.
How do I know if call forwarding is active on my Verizon phone?
The easiest way to check is to use the status check dial code 73. If call forwarding is active, you will hear a confirmation message. Alternatively, check your phone settings or the My Verizon app for call forwarding status. Some phones also display an icon on the status bar when call forwarding is enabled.
Can I forward calls to an international number?
Yes, you can forward calls to an international number on Verizon Wireless. However, you are responsible for any international calling charges that may apply. These charges can be substantial, so it’s essential to understand the rates before setting up international call forwarding.
What happens if I forget the number I’m forwarding calls to?
Unfortunately, the dial code method does not easily display the current forward-to number. The best way to determine the number is to check your phone settings or the My Verizon app, which will typically display the active forwarding number.
Does call forwarding work if my phone is turned off?
If you set up unconditional call forwarding, it will work regardless of whether your phone is on or off. However, if you are using conditional call forwarding (e.g., no answer, busy), it will only work when your phone is on and able to receive a signal.
Can I forward calls to multiple numbers simultaneously?
No, Verizon Wireless call forwarding only allows forwarding to a single number at a time. To forward calls to multiple numbers, you would need to explore more advanced solutions like a virtual phone system.
What’s the difference between call forwarding and call waiting?
Call forwarding redirects all incoming calls to a different number. Call waiting allows you to answer a second incoming call while putting the first call on hold. They are separate features.
How do I deactivate call forwarding on my Verizon Wireless phone?
To deactivate call forwarding, dial 73 from your phone. You can also disable it through your phone settings or the My Verizon app. Always ensure you deactivate the feature when it’s no longer required.
What are the potential drawbacks of using call forwarding?
Potential drawbacks include: possible call forwarding charges (especially for international calls), dependence on the availability and accuracy of the forward-to number, and potential confusion if you forget that call forwarding is active.
Will call forwarding work with Wi-Fi Calling?
Yes, call forwarding should work seamlessly with Wi-Fi Calling. If you have Wi-Fi Calling enabled, your calls will be forwarded as usual, provided you have a stable internet connection.
How quickly does call forwarding activate after I set it up?
Call forwarding typically activates almost immediately after you set it up using any of the methods described above. However, it’s always a good idea to test the configuration by calling your number from another phone to ensure it’s working as expected.
If I’m traveling internationally, should I use call forwarding differently?
When traveling internationally, carefully consider the potential for roaming charges or international call forwarding fees. It might be more cost-effective to use a local SIM card and forward calls to that number, or to utilize Wi-Fi based calling apps instead. Always research and understand the costs involved before activating call forwarding while abroad.