How to transfer calls between phones

You can forward incoming calls from one phone number to another using call forwarding, a feature built into most phone plans. The setup takes a few minutes and works whether you're switching phones temporarily, managing multiple lines, or directing calls to a different device. The method depends on whether you have a landline or mobile phone, and which carrier you use.

Call forwarding is different from call transfer — forwarding sends all incoming calls automatically to another number, while transfer lets you move a call that's already connected. This guide covers forwarding, which handles the calls before you even answer them.

Key Takeaways

  • Mobile call forwarding is usually activated by dialing a code like *72 followed by the destination number, then pressing call.
  • Landline forwarding varies by carrier — AT&T, Verizon, and others have different activation codes, so check your bill or call your provider.
  • You can turn forwarding off by dialing *73 on most mobile networks, or by calling your carrier's customer service.
  • Forwarding works even if your original phone is off or out of range, but you'll be charged for the forwarded call as if you made it yourself.
  • Some carriers charge a monthly fee for call forwarding, while others include it free with your plan.

Mobile phone call forwarding codes

On most mobile carriers, you activate call forwarding by dialing a code directly from your phone. Open the phone dialer, type the code, and press call — you'll hear a confirmation tone or message. The standard code is *72 followed by the 10-digit number where you want calls sent, then press call. For example: *72-555-123-4567.

To turn off forwarding, dial *73 and press call. To check whether forwarding is active and see which number is set, dial *71 and press call. These codes work on most carriers including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and regional providers, though some carriers use slightly different codes — check your carrier's website or your plan documents if the standard codes don't work.

Forwarding remains active until you turn it off, even if you restart your phone or switch to a different device on the same number. If you're traveling internationally, forwarding still works, but you'll be charged international rates for each forwarded call.

Landline call forwarding setup

Landline forwarding codes vary significantly by carrier. AT&T uses *72 followed by the destination number, just like mobile. Verizon uses *72 as well, but some Verizon customers need to dial 1-800-555-4141 instead. CenturyLink, Frontier, and smaller regional carriers each have their own codes — your bill or the carrier's website will list the correct one.

If you can't find the code, call your landline provider's customer service number (listed on your bill) and ask them to activate call forwarding to a specific number. They can set it up over the phone in a few minutes. Some carriers charge $3 to $5 per month for call forwarding, while others include it free with your plan.

To deactivate landline forwarding, dial *73 or call your carrier directly. Some carriers require you to call to turn it off rather than using a code.

Call forwarding on smartphones with apps

Beyond the built-in carrier codes, many smartphones offer call forwarding settings in the phone's own menu. On iPhones, go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding and toggle it on, then enter the destination number. On Android phones, the path varies by manufacturer — typically Settings > Phone > Call Settings > Call Forwarding, though Samsung, Google Pixel, and others place it differently.

Using your phone's built-in settings is often easier than memorizing codes, and it shows you the active forwarding number on screen. However, the carrier code method (*72) works even if your phone's settings menu is unavailable or if you're using an older phone that doesn't have a forwarding menu.

Some third-party apps like Google Voice, Skype, or Vonage offer call forwarding as part of their service, but these require you to port your number to their system or use a separate number — they're not the same as carrier-based forwarding.

What happens when calls are forwarded

When call forwarding is active, incoming calls ring on the destination number instead of your original phone. The caller doesn't know their call was forwarded — they see your original number on their end. If the destination number doesn't answer, the call typically goes to voicemail on that phone, not back to your original voicemail.

You pay for forwarded calls as if you made them yourself. If you forward a landline to a mobile phone, you're charged mobile rates. If you forward to an international number, you pay international long-distance rates. Check your carrier's rates before setting up forwarding to an expensive destination.

Forwarding works even when your original phone is off, in airplane mode, or out of service area. This makes it useful for emergencies or when you need calls to reach you on a backup device. However, if both phones are off or unreachable, the call goes to voicemail on whichever phone the carrier routes it to.

Temporary forwarding vs. permanent setup

Call forwarding works the same way whether you're using it for a day or a year, but temporary situations — like a broken phone, a hospital stay, or a business trip — are common reasons to set it up. You can activate it in seconds and turn it off just as quickly when you no longer need it.

If you're forwarding temporarily, write down the code you used (*72 or your carrier's code) so you remember how to turn it off. Set a reminder on your calendar to disable forwarding when you're done, since it stays active until you manually turn it off. Some people forget and continue paying for forwarding long after they need it.

For permanent setups — like a business owner forwarding a main line to a mobile phone — confirm with your carrier whether there's a monthly fee and whether the feature is included in your plan. Some plans include unlimited forwarding; others charge per month or per call.

Troubleshooting forwarding problems

If you dial the forwarding code and hear nothing, try again — some carriers require you to wait for a confirmation tone before hanging up. If the code doesn't work at all, your carrier may not support it, or your plan may not include the feature. Call your carrier's customer service to confirm forwarding is available on your account.

If forwarding is active but calls aren't reaching the destination number, check that you entered the number correctly — a single wrong digit means calls go nowhere. Dial *71 (or your carrier's check code) to see which number is currently set. If the number is wrong, dial *73 to turn off forwarding, then dial *72 again with the correct number.

If calls are going to voicemail on the destination phone instead of ringing, the destination phone may be off or out of range. Forwarding only sends the call; it doesn't may provide the destination phone will answer. If you need calls to reach you reliably, use a phone that's powered on and has signal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I forward calls to multiple phones at once?

Standard carrier call forwarding sends calls to one number only. If you need multiple phones to ring simultaneously, you'll need a service like Google Voice, Skype, or a business phone system that supports simultaneous ringing. These services let you add multiple destination numbers, though they may require you to use a different phone number or pay a monthly fee.

Will call forwarding work if I'm out of the country?

Yes, forwarding works internationally, but you'll pay international rates for each call. If you forward a U.S. number to a phone in another country, you're charged as if you made an international call. Before traveling, check your carrier's international rates or consider using a service like WhatsApp or Google Voice instead.

What's the difference between call forwarding and call transfer?

Call forwarding automatically sends all incoming calls to another number before you answer. Call transfer moves a call that's already connected to you — you answer first, then press a code to send it elsewhere. Forwarding is automatic; transfer requires you to be on the call.

Do I need to pay extra for call forwarding?

Many carriers include call forwarding free with standard plans, but some charge $3 to $5 per month. Check your bill or call your carrier to confirm whether forwarding is included or if there's a monthly fee. You'll also pay for the calls themselves at your normal rate.

Can I set up forwarding if my phone is stolen or lost?

Yes — call your carrier's customer service from another phone and ask them to activate call forwarding to a number where you can be reached. You don't need access to your original phone. This is useful if your phone is lost and you want incoming calls to reach you while you arrange a replacement.