How to forward missed calls on Verizon

Forward only the calls you don't answer

1. On your Verizon mobile phone, dial *71 followed by the 10-digit number you want calls sent to. For example: *71 555 123 4567.
2. Press call and listen for the confirmation beeps. The call ends on its own.

Verizon calls this No Answer/Busy Transfer. Its support page says calls go to the new number when your phone is busy or not answered after about 3 to 6 rings, instead of going to voicemail.

Forward all calls

Dial *72 followed by the 10-digit number, press call and wait for the beeps. Every call then goes straight to the other number and your phone won't ring.

Turn forwarding off

Dial *73 from the same phone and wait for the beeps.

Good to know

• Verizon says there's no monthly fee for call forwarding on most plans, and forwarded calls are billed like calls you answer.
• The number you forward to must be an active US number with all 10 digits. International numbers aren't allowed.
• Set it up while you're in Verizon's coverage area. Only calls are forwarded, not text messages.
• If callers start hearing a busy tone after setup, a key may have been pressed by accident. Set it up again.

Test it before you rely on it

1. Call your business number from another phone.
2. Don't answer. Let it ring.
3. Check that the call reaches the number you forwarded to after a few rings.
4. Call once more while your phone is switched off or in airplane mode, if you set up forwarding for unreachable calls too.

If the call goes to your old voicemail instead, the forwarding didn't save. Dial the code again slowly, or contact your carrier.

Sources: Verizon, Turn Call Forwarding On from Device, Call Forwarding FAQs and Turn Call Forwarding Off from Device. Checked October 29, 2026. Carriers change their steps; if a code doesn't work, contact Verizon.