The Definitive Guide to Call Forwarding on Verizon: Mastering Your Calls

Call forwarding is a lifeline in our hyper-connected world, allowing us to stay in touch even when tethered to a specific location or device isn’t possible. Whether you’re temporarily relocating, managing multiple numbers, or simply stepping away from your desk, understanding how to call forward a Verizon phone is crucial. The process is straightforward: dial *72 followed by the 10-digit phone number you want to forward your calls to, then press the send or call button. To disable call forwarding, dial *73 and press send. Now, let’s dive deeper into the intricacies of this powerful feature.

Decoding Verizon Call Forwarding: Your Complete Toolkit

Verizon offers a remarkably user-friendly system for managing call forwarding. However, a nuanced understanding of the different types and associated functionalities can significantly enhance your ability to control your communication flow. The core functionality remains the same across most Verizon services, including landlines and mobile devices, but subtle variations exist based on your specific plan and equipment.

Activating Call Forwarding: Step-by-Step

The activation process is generally consistent but let’s reiterate with added clarity:

1. Pick up your Verizon phone. Whether it’s a landline or a mobile device, the first step is to access the dial pad.
2. Dial the activation code. This is the magic ingredient: dial *72 followed immediately by the 10-digit phone number to which you wish to forward your calls (including the area code). Don’t add any dashes or spaces.
3. Press Send/Call. Once you’ve entered the code and forwarding number, hit the “Send” or “Call” button on your phone.
4. Listen for confirmation. You should hear a confirmation tone or announcement indicating that call forwarding has been successfully activated. If you don’t, try again, ensuring the number is entered correctly.

Deactivating Call Forwarding: Reclaiming Your Line

Deactivating call forwarding is just as easy as activating it:

1. Pick up your Verizon phone.
2. Dial the deactivation code. This time, the code is *73.
3. Press Send/Call.
4. Listen for confirmation. Again, listen for a confirmation tone or announcement confirming that call forwarding has been deactivated.

Understanding Different Call Forwarding Types

While unconditional call forwarding (forwarding all calls) is the most common, it’s important to be aware of other options, though availability may vary depending on your specific Verizon service:

• Call Forwarding Busy: Forwards calls only when your line is busy.
• Call Forwarding No Answer: Forwards calls only if you don’t answer after a certain number of rings.
• Selective Call Forwarding: Allows you to forward calls only from specific phone numbers. (Often managed through online account settings or specific device features).

Managing Call Forwarding Online

Verizon’s online portal (My Verizon) often provides a more visual and granular control over call forwarding features, especially for advanced options like selective call forwarding. Log in to your My Verizon account and navigate to the “Call Forwarding” or “Features” section to explore available settings. You can usually add, delete, and modify forwarding rules directly from the web interface.

Verizon Call Forwarding FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about Verizon call forwarding, designed to address common concerns and clarify any lingering uncertainties:

1. Does call forwarding work on Verizon cell phones as well as landlines?

Yes, call forwarding is generally available on both Verizon landlines and cell phones. However, the specific features and activation codes might vary slightly. Always check Verizon’s website or contact customer service for the most accurate information related to your specific device and plan.

2. What happens if the phone I’m forwarding to is busy?

If the number you’re forwarding to is busy or doesn’t answer, the caller will likely hear a busy signal or be directed to voicemail (if that service is active on the forwarded-to number).

3. Is there a limit to how many times I can forward my calls?

While there is generally no explicit limit to the number of times you can forward your calls, doing so repeatedly might introduce delays or complications in call routing. It’s best practice to forward directly to the intended destination.

4. Will I be charged extra for using call forwarding on Verizon?

This depends on your Verizon plan. Some plans include call forwarding as a standard feature, while others may charge a monthly fee or per-minute usage fee. Check your plan details or contact Verizon customer service to clarify any potential charges.

5. Can I forward calls to an international number?

Yes, you can forward calls to an international number. However, international call forwarding charges may apply. These charges can be significantly higher than domestic rates, so it’s essential to check Verizon’s international calling rates before activating the feature.

6. How do I forward calls to voicemail?

The process for forwarding directly to voicemail depends on your voicemail service. You usually need to obtain the direct access number for your voicemail box. Once you have this number, you can use the call forwarding activation code (*72) followed by the voicemail access number.

7. What is “Conditional Call Forwarding,” and how is it different from regular call forwarding?

Conditional call forwarding, as mentioned earlier, allows you to forward calls only under specific circumstances, such as when your line is busy (Call Forwarding Busy) or when you don’t answer (Call Forwarding No Answer). Regular (or unconditional) call forwarding forwards all calls regardless of whether your line is busy or you are available to answer.

8. Can I forward calls from a Verizon landline to a cell phone or vice versa?

Yes, you can forward calls between a Verizon landline and a cell phone, provided both numbers are active and you have call forwarding enabled on the originating line.

9. How do I know if call forwarding is currently active on my Verizon phone?

Unfortunately, there’s often no visual indicator on the phone itself. The best way to confirm is to dial *73 (the deactivation code). If call forwarding is active, this will deactivate it and you’ll hear a confirmation. If it’s not active, you may hear a different tone or message indicating that.

10. What should I do if call forwarding isn’t working?

First, double-check that you’ve entered the activation code and the forwarding number correctly. Ensure you’ve pressed “Send/Call” and listened for the confirmation tone. If it still doesn’t work, contact Verizon customer service for assistance. There might be an issue with your account or the call forwarding feature itself.

11. Can I use call forwarding while roaming internationally?

Using call forwarding while roaming internationally can be tricky and potentially expensive. Roaming charges might apply to both the incoming call and the forwarded call. It’s best to disable call forwarding before traveling internationally or consult with Verizon about international roaming options.

12. Is it possible to block certain numbers from being forwarded?

Standard call forwarding typically forwards all calls. To selectively forward calls from only certain numbers, you’d need to explore advanced call management features, often found in online account settings or specific device features. These features might be part of a more comprehensive call management package offered by Verizon. Check the availability and pricing with Verizon directly.

By mastering these techniques and understanding the nuances of Verizon’s call forwarding system, you can maintain seamless communication regardless of your location or availability. Remember to always verify your specific plan details and contact Verizon for any clarifications or specialized needs.