Call forwarding on Verizon lets you redirect incoming calls to another number so you don’t miss important calls when you’re unavailable or out of coverage. This evergreen explainer covers how it works on Verizon landline and wireless plans, when to use it, how to set it up on iPhone and Android devices, and what to expect for costs and behavior. You’ll find clear steps, key details to check on your plan, and practical guidance to keep calls reaching you reliably.
What Is Call Forwarding and When to Use It
Call forwarding is a phone feature that sends incoming calls to another number you choose. On Verizon, you can use it for home phone lines, mobile lines, or business accounts. Common situations include being in a location with poor coverage, traveling, during meetings or classes, or while handling another call. It helps reduce missed calls and can provide a simple backup if your device is unavailable. Note that call forwarding usually does not activate for 911 calls, and you should stay aware of your location for emergency services.
How Call Forwarding Works on Verizon Wireless
On Verizon wireless plans, call forwarding is handled through your device settings or by quick codes, depending on your phone and plan features. When enabled, calls to your Verizon line are redirected to another number you preset, such as a second mobile line, a landline, or a voicemail box. The feature operates on the carrier network, so it can work even if your phone is off, as long as the forwarding is activated on your line. It typically does not forward texts, and data usage continues on your device unless Airplane Mode or other settings change behavior.
Use Cases and Limitations
- Good for: catching calls when your phone is off, in a poor coverage area, or during specific time periods.
- Not intended for: redirecting 911 calls, which should always reach local emergency services directly.
- Compatibility: works with most smartphones on Verizon, but behavior can vary by device and plan.
How to Set Up Call Forwarding on iPhone
To enable call forwarding on an iPhone with Verizon, open Settings, tap Phone, then tap Call Forwarding, and switch it on. You’ll enter the phone number you want calls forwarded to, and you can turn Call Forwarding off at any time. For multiple steps, you can also dial a quick code provided by Verizon, though using Settings is often clearer and shows the active status. After saving, incoming calls to your Verizon line will route to the number you entered.
iPhone Quick Steps
- Open Settings and go to Phone.
- Tap Call Forwarding and turn it on.
- Enter the destination number and confirm.
- Turn Call Forwarding off anytime to return calls to your device.
How to Set Up Call Forwarding on Android
On Android devices with Verizon, open the Phone app, go to Settings (often labeled Calls or Connections), find Call Forwarding, and choose the forwarding type such as Always forward, Forward when busy, or Forward when unanswered. Enter the destination number and save. As with iPhone, you can also use quick codes from Verizon, but the app settings give you clear visual confirmation. Check your specific Android model for exact menu names, as they can vary slightly across devices.
Android Quick Steps
- Open Phone app and go to Settings or Calls Settings.
- Tap Call Forwarding and select a forwarding option.
- Enter the phone number and save.
- Turn forwarding off in the same menu when no longer needed.
Verizon Call Forwarding Codes and Quick Setup
Verizon supports phone-based quick codes to set up or adjust call forwarding without navigating full menus. Common patterns include codes to set always forwarding, forward when busy, or forward when unanswered. Because codes can vary by plan and device, it’s best to check the current code by calling Verizon customer support or searching for the latest Verizon call forwarding codes for your line type. Using codes is fast, but Settings on your phone often provides clearer control and status information.
Costs, Limits, and What to Verify
Whether call forwarding costs extra on Verizon depends on your plan. For many consumer plans, basic call forwarding is included, but business plans, certain legacy lines, or additional features may carry fees. International forwarding, premium numbers, or special service rules might also affect cost. To verify exact behavior and any fees, review your plan details in My Verizon, check the device and plan terms, or contact Verizon support for current information.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Basic call forwarding (lines, not 911) | Typically included on many consumer plans; verify on your account | Plan terms / My Verizon |
| International call forwarding | Potential additional fees or restrictions may apply | Plan terms or Verizon support |
| Business or legacy plans | May have different rules or fees for call forwarding | Account review or support |
| Device behaviors (iPhone/Android) | Settings in Phone app; quick codes available | Device settings and Verizon guides |
Summary and Best Practices
Call forwarding on Verizon is a flexible option that helps ensure you stay reachable when it’s impractical to answer directly. Use it thoughtfully to avoid unintended charges, especially for international forwarding or on business plans. Verify your plan details in My Verizon, confirm settings on your device, and test the setup by calling your line to ensure calls route as expected.
FAQ
Reader questions
Does call forwarding work when my phone is off?
Yes, when call forwarding is activated on your line at the network level, calls can be forwarded even if your phone is powered off. The forwarding decision happens on the carrier network before your device would need to respond.
Will callers know their call is being forwarded?
Typically, callers hear the forwarded line ring and are not notified that call forwarding is active. They experience a normal call process, just reaching the number you set.
Can I forward calls to an international number?
Yes, you can usually forward to international numbers, but this may involve international charges depending on your plan. Check your plan terms or ask Verizon support about potential fees before enabling international forwarding.
Does call forwarding affect my minutes or data?
Call forwarding itself does not typically consume your minutes in a way you would be charged separately, as the call is treated as one continuous call to the destination. Data usage on your device depends on the apps and background activity during the call.