The three ways to transfer a call on Verizon

Call transfer on Verizon works differently depending on whether you're using a landline, a mobile phone, or a business phone system. On a mobile phone, you use the hold and merge functions built into your phone's dialer. On a Verizon landline, you press a button or dial a code. On a Verizon business line, the process depends on your phone system — some use button codes, others use dial codes.

The most common scenario is transferring a call on your mobile phone. This requires putting the first caller on hold, dialing the person you want to transfer to, and then connecting them. Your phone handles the actual transfer; you don't stay on the line once it's complete.

If you're trying to transfer a call to someone else's phone (not your own), that person needs to answer first. If they don't pick up, you can return to the first caller and try someone else, or tell the first caller you couldn't reach that person.

Key Takeaways

  • On a Verizon mobile phone, hold the first call, dial the second number, then press merge or the call transfer button to connect them.
  • On a Verizon landline, press the transfer button or dial *72 to initiate a transfer, depending on your phone model and plan.
  • If the person you're transferring to doesn't answer, you can go back to the first caller and try a different number.
  • Call transfer is included with most Verizon plans at no extra cost, but some older plans or business lines may have different features.

Transferring a call on a Verizon mobile phone

Start by having the first caller on the line. Press the hold button or tap "Hold" on your screen — this puts that call on pause. The first caller hears silence or hold music; they remain connected but can't hear you.

Dial the number of the person you want to transfer the call to. Wait for them to answer. Once they pick up, you can speak to them briefly to explain who's calling and why, or transfer immediately if you prefer.

Look for a "Merge" button, "Transfer" button, or similar option on your phone's screen. The exact label depends on your phone model. On many Android phones, you'll see a "Merge calls" option. On iPhones, look for a button labeled "Transfer" or swipe up to see more options. Tap it, and the two calls connect — the first caller and the person you dialed are now talking to each other, and you're no longer part of the conversation.

If the person you dialed doesn't answer or declines the call, press the back or return button to go back to your first caller. You can then try transferring to someone else or tell the first caller you couldn't reach that person.

Transferring a call on a Verizon landline

Verizon landlines use either a physical transfer button on the phone or a dial code, depending on your phone model and service plan. Check your phone's buttons first — many Verizon landline phones have a button labeled "Transfer" or "Xfer."

With the first caller on the line, press the Transfer button. This puts them on hold. Dial the number you want to transfer to. When the person answers, you can speak briefly or transfer immediately. Press the Transfer button again to complete the transfer and disconnect yourself from the call.

If your phone doesn't have a dedicated transfer button, try dialing *72 while the first caller is on the line. This initiates a transfer. Dial the destination number, and when the person answers, hang up to complete the transfer. Some older Verizon landline plans use different codes — if *72 doesn't work, check your phone's manual or contact Verizon to confirm the correct code for your service.

Transferring calls on a Verizon business phone system

Business phone systems vary widely, even within Verizon's offerings. If you use Verizon Business, your system might be a traditional PBX (private branch exchange), a cloud-based system like Verizon Business Communications Manager, or a newer unified communications platform.

Most Verizon business systems use a button on your desk phone labeled "Transfer" or "Xfer," or a dial code like *72 or #72. Put the first caller on hold, dial the destination number, and press Transfer when the person answers. Some systems require you to press Transfer before dialing, others after.

If you're unsure which method your system uses, ask your IT department or Verizon Business support. They can confirm the exact steps for your phone model and plan. Many business systems also allow you to transfer calls to voicemail, to a department extension, or to an external number — the process is the same, but the destination changes.

What happens if the transfer fails

If the person you're transferring to doesn't answer, most phones will return you to the first caller automatically after a few rings. You'll hear the first caller again and can explain that the person didn't pick up. You can then try transferring to a different number or handle the call yourself.

If the transfer button doesn't work or seems stuck, hang up and call back. Don't stay on the line trying to troubleshoot — it's faster to start over. If transfers consistently fail on your Verizon line, the issue may be with your phone, your account settings, or your service plan. Contact Verizon to confirm that call transfer is included with your plan and that your phone is configured correctly.

Call transfer features included with your Verizon plan

Call transfer is a standard feature on most Verizon mobile and landline plans at no extra cost. However, some older plans or limited prepaid plans may not include it. If you're on a very basic plan, transfer might be disabled or require an upgrade.

Verizon also offers related features that work with call transfer. Call waiting lets you know when a second call is coming in while you're on a call — this is what allows you to put the first caller on hold and answer the second one. Call merge (on mobile) or conference calling (on landline) lets you connect three or more people on the same call. These features are usually bundled together and included with standard plans.

If you're not sure whether your plan includes call transfer, check your Verizon bill or account online, or call Verizon customer service. They can confirm what features are active on your line and enable any that are available but turned off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer a call if I don't know the person's number?

No — you need to dial a phone number to transfer a call. If you don't have the number, you can tell the first caller you'll look it up and call them back, or ask the first caller if they have the number. Some business phone systems let you transfer to a named extension or department, but that still requires knowing the extension or department code.

What's the difference between transfer and conference calling?

In a transfer, you disconnect from the call after connecting the other two people — they talk to each other, not to you. In a conference call, you stay on the line with both people. On Verizon mobile, use "Merge" to conference; on landline, use "Conference" if available. Transfer is faster when you just need to hand off a call.

Does the person I'm transferring to see my number or the first caller's number?

They see the first caller's number, not yours. That's the point of a transfer — the first caller is now calling the second person directly. If you want the second person to know you initiated the transfer, tell them before you complete it.

Can I transfer a call to voicemail?

On mobile, you can transfer to someone's voicemail by dialing their number and letting it go to voicemail, then pressing transfer. On business systems, you can often transfer directly to a voicemail box or extension. On a basic landline, you can only transfer to a live phone number.

What if I accidentally transfer a call before the person answers?

If you press transfer before the person picks up, the first caller will hear ringing on the other end. If nobody answers, the call will time out and return to you, or go to voicemail if that's set up. Always wait for the person to answer before completing the transfer.