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How to Turn Off Call Forwarding on Verizon Wireless: A Comprehensive Guide

Turning off call forwarding on Verizon Wireless is a straightforward process, but understanding the different methods available can save you time and frustration. Here’s a direct answer: the most common method is to use a deactivation code, which you dial directly from your phone. Specifically, dial *73 or 73# (depending on your phone model) and press the call button. You should hear a confirmation tone or message indicating that call forwarding has been successfully deactivated.

Understanding Call Forwarding on Verizon: More Than Just a Setting

Call forwarding, at its core, is a remarkably useful feature. It allows you to redirect incoming calls to another number, ensuring you never miss an important conversation, even when you’re unavailable or your primary phone is out of reach. However, there are several nuanced ways Verizon implements call forwarding, each with its own activation and deactivation quirks. This is why simply knowing the deactivation code isn’t always enough. Sometimes, understanding the type of call forwarding active on your line is crucial.

Consider this: are you using conditional call forwarding (forwarding only when your line is busy, unanswered, or unreachable) or unconditional call forwarding (forwarding all calls immediately)? Each type requires a slightly different approach to disable. Furthermore, the specific dial codes might vary subtly depending on your phone model and the exact version of Verizon’s network you’re connected to (although *73 is generally the most reliable).

Before we dive into troubleshooting and FAQs, let’s explore the various deactivation methods.

Deactivation Methods: Dial Codes, My Verizon App, and More

While the *73 (or 73#) code is the most universally applicable method, there are other ways to disable call forwarding:

Dial Codes: As mentioned, *73 (or 73#) deactivates unconditional call forwarding. For conditional call forwarding, you might need to use codes like *71 or *90, followed by the forwarding number, then another code to disable. These codes are less common and may not work universally.
My Verizon App: The My Verizon app offers a user-friendly interface to manage various account settings, including call forwarding. Navigate to the “Features” section, find “Call Forwarding,” and toggle the setting off. This method is often the easiest for less technically inclined users.
My Verizon Website: The online portal mirrors the app’s functionality. Log in to your My Verizon account, go to the “Products & Apps” section, and manage your “Calling Features.”
Contact Verizon Support: If all else fails, contacting Verizon customer support is your best bet. They can remotely disable call forwarding on your line and troubleshoot any underlying issues preventing deactivation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, deactivating call forwarding isn’t as simple as dialing a code. You might encounter issues like:

Confirmation Tone Not Heard: Ensure you’re in an area with good signal strength and that your phone’s speaker is working correctly. Redial the code and listen carefully.
Calls Still Being Forwarded: Wait a few minutes after dialing the deactivation code. It can take some time for the changes to propagate through the network. If calls continue to be forwarded after a reasonable time, try another deactivation method or contact Verizon support.
Unknown Call Forwarding Number: If you don’t remember the number your calls are being forwarded to, Verizon support can assist you in identifying and removing it.
App/Website Issues: Ensure your My Verizon app or website is up-to-date. Clear your browser’s cache and cookies if using the website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about turning off call forwarding on Verizon Wireless:

1. What is the most reliable way to turn off call forwarding on Verizon?

The most reliable method is generally dialing *73 (or 73#) directly from your phone. This typically deactivates unconditional call forwarding, the most common type.

2. What if *73 doesn’t work?

If *73 doesn’t work, try using the My Verizon app or website. You can also contact Verizon customer support for assistance. The dial code may depend on the type of forwarding or even the region you are in.

3. How do I turn off conditional call forwarding?

Conditional call forwarding (forwarding when busy, unanswered, or unreachable) might require different codes depending on the specific condition. Contact Verizon support for specific instructions or check your phone’s manual. Older Verizon landline users reported success with *71 to remove forwarding on no answer.

4. How long does it take for call forwarding to be disabled after using the code?

It usually takes a few minutes for the change to take effect. However, it can sometimes take up to an hour. If call forwarding persists after an hour, try another method or contact Verizon.

5. Will turning off call forwarding affect other Verizon features?

No, turning off call forwarding should not affect other Verizon features like voicemail, caller ID, or data services.

6. Can I turn off call forwarding temporarily?

Yes, you can turn off call forwarding temporarily and reactivate it later. The activation code is typically *72 followed by the number you want to forward calls to (e.g., *72-1-555-123-4567).

7. What’s the difference between unconditional and conditional call forwarding?

Unconditional call forwarding forwards all incoming calls immediately to another number. Conditional call forwarding only forwards calls under specific conditions, such as when your phone is busy, unanswered, or unreachable.

8. Is there a charge for using call forwarding?

Verizon may charge a fee for using call forwarding, depending on your plan. Check your plan details or contact Verizon to confirm.

9. I forgot the number my calls are being forwarded to. How can I find it?

Contact Verizon customer support. They can access your account information and provide the number your calls are being forwarded to.

10. Can I turn off call forwarding on someone else’s Verizon phone?

No, you cannot turn off call forwarding on someone else’s Verizon phone without their permission and access to their account.

11. What if I’m traveling internationally? Will the deactivation codes still work?

The deactivation codes may not work reliably when traveling internationally. The best option is to use the My Verizon app or website, or contact Verizon customer support for assistance.

12. I have multiple lines on my Verizon account. How do I turn off call forwarding on a specific line?

You will need to log into your My Verizon account and select the specific line you want to manage. Then, follow the steps outlined earlier to turn off call forwarding. Make sure you are working on the correct line to prevent disruptions to other phone services.

In conclusion, turning off call forwarding on Verizon Wireless is usually a simple process involving dialing a specific code. However, understanding the nuances of different call forwarding types and having alternative methods available can prove invaluable when troubleshooting issues. Remember to leverage the My Verizon app or website, and don’t hesitate to contact Verizon customer support when needed. By following these guidelines, you can confidently manage your call forwarding settings and ensure you receive calls exactly where and when you need them.