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Changing Your Google Voice Number: A Comprehensive Guide

Want to ditch your current Google Voice number for something fresh? Maybe you’re relocating, rebranding, or simply trying to escape unwanted calls. Whatever the reason, changing your Google Voice number is a surprisingly straightforward process, though it does come with considerations. Here’s the lowdown.

Changing your Google Voice number involves releasing your current number and selecting a new one. You can do this through the Google Voice website or the Google Voice app. The critical thing to remember is that releasing your old number permanently disconnects it from your Google Voice account, and anyone who tries to reach you at that number will no longer be able to.

Understanding the Process

Before you dive in, let’s clarify the steps involved:

Back Up Essential Data: Crucial! Ensure you’ve saved any important voicemails, call logs, or text messages. Releasing your number erases everything associated with it.
Release Your Current Number: This is the point of no return. Once released, the number becomes available to other users.
Choose a New Number: You’ll be presented with options based on area codes and availability. Pick the one that suits your needs.
Verify the New Number: You may need to verify your new number with a linked phone.
Update Your Contacts: Inform friends, family, and business contacts about your number change.

Step-by-Step Guide: Website & App

The process is remarkably similar whether you’re using the web or the app. Let’s walk through both.

Changing Your Number via the Google Voice Website

Sign In: Go to the Google Voice website (voice.google.com) and sign in to your Google account associated with your Google Voice service.
Access Settings: Click the gear icon in the upper-right corner to access the settings menu.
Navigate to “Number”: On the settings page, look for the “Number” section. It may be under “Account” or a similar heading, depending on the interface update.
Release the Current Number: Click the option to “Release your number“. You’ll likely be asked to confirm this action. Read the warning carefully before proceeding.
Choose a New Number: Once your old number is released, you’ll be prompted to choose a new one. Enter the desired area code or search term.
Select and Verify: Choose an available number from the list and follow the on-screen instructions to verify it. This might involve receiving a verification code on your linked phone.

Changing Your Number via the Google Voice App

Open the App: Launch the Google Voice app on your smartphone (Android or iOS).
Access the Menu: Tap the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) in the upper-left corner.
Go to Settings: Scroll down and tap on “Settings.”
Navigate to “Account”: Within settings, find and tap on “Account”.
Select “Google Voice Number”: You will see your current Google Voice Number. Select this section.
Release the Current Number: Tap the option to “Release number.” A confirmation prompt will appear. Proceed with caution.
Get a New Number: After releasing your current number, you will be prompted to get a new one. Follow the instructions to choose a new number based on area code.
Verify New Number: Once you’ve chosen your number, you may need to verify your linked device.

Key Considerations & Potential Issues

Cost: While getting a Google Voice number is generally free, changing it might involve a one-time fee. Check the Google Voice pricing for details, as it can vary by region and circumstance.
Availability: Desired area codes or specific number sequences might not be available. Be prepared to be flexible.
Temporary Number: If you only need a temporary number, consider using a different service designed for that purpose, as frequently changing your Google Voice number might raise flags with Google.
Porting a Number: If you want to use an existing mobile number as your Google Voice number, you’ll need to “port” the number, which is a different process than simply changing your Google Voice number.

FAQs: Your Google Voice Number Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity and address potential concerns:

1. How often can I change my Google Voice number?

Google doesn’t specify a hard limit on the number of times you can change your Google Voice number. However, frequent changes may trigger security measures or raise suspicion of misuse, potentially leading to account limitations. Be judicious.

2. Is there a fee to change my Google Voice number?

Yes, there is typically a one-time fee to change your Google Voice number. This fee can vary depending on your location and Google’s current pricing policies. Check the Google Voice website for current rates.

3. Can I get the same number back if I release it?

Generally, no. Once you release a Google Voice number, it goes back into the pool of available numbers and is no longer associated with your account. It’s highly unlikely you’ll be able to reclaim it.

4. What happens to my voicemails and text messages when I change my Google Voice number?

All voicemails, text messages, and call history associated with your old Google Voice number are permanently deleted when you release the number. It’s crucial to back up any important information before proceeding.

5. Can I change my Google Voice number from outside the United States?

The ability to change your Google Voice number from outside the United States may be restricted depending on the country and Google’s service availability in that region. Check Google Voice’s international capabilities.

6. How long does it take for my new Google Voice number to become active?

Your new Google Voice number typically becomes active immediately after you’ve completed the verification process. However, it might take a few minutes for the change to propagate fully across all Google’s systems.

7. Can I choose a specific Google Voice number?

While you can’t pick a number out of thin air, you can search for numbers based on area code or certain number sequences. Availability is subject to chance.

8. What if I’m having trouble releasing my current Google Voice number?

If you encounter errors or issues releasing your number, contact Google Voice support. They can help troubleshoot problems with your account.

9. Can I port my existing phone number to Google Voice instead of getting a new one?

Yes, you can port an existing mobile number to Google Voice. This is a different process than changing your Google Voice number, and involves transferring your existing number to Google Voice.

10. What should I do after changing my Google Voice number?

After changing your number, update your contacts, voicemail greeting, and any services using your old Google Voice number, such as online accounts or subscriptions.

11. Will people who call my old Google Voice number know that it has changed?

No, callers to your old Google Voice number will simply hear a message indicating that the number is no longer in service. They won’t be informed that you have a new number.

12. Can I have more than one Google Voice number on a single Google account?

No, each Google Voice account is limited to one Google Voice number. If you need multiple numbers, you’ll need to create separate Google accounts for each.