How to forward your business phone after hours (or when you do not answer)
Updated
Two kinds of forwarding
Unconditional forwarding sends every call to another number. Conditional forwarding sends a call only when you do not answer, are busy, or your phone is off. For overflow and after-hours coverage, conditional forwarding on no-answer is usually what you want, because you still pick up when you can.
Common mobile codes
These are widely used on US carriers. Codes can differ, so confirm with your carrier.
- Forward when unanswered (GSM carriers such as AT&T and T-Mobile): **61*+1XXXXXXXXXX# then call.
- Forward when busy: **67*+1XXXXXXXXXX# then call.
- Cancel all conditional forwarding: ##004# then call.
- Verizon: dial *71 followed by the number to forward on no answer; *73 to cancel.
Landlines and VoIP
Business phone systems and VoIP providers have a forwarding or call-flow setting in their admin portal. Look for 'forward on no answer', 'after-hours routing' or 'ring group fallback'.
Always test
After setting forwarding, call your business line from another phone and let it ring out. Confirm the call lands where you expect, and confirm turning it off works before you rely on it.
Forwarding without porting
You do not have to move your number to a new provider. Forwarding keeps your number, your carrier and your control; you can switch it off at any time.
Common questions
Will forwarding change my phone number?
No. Callers still dial your usual number.
How long should the phone ring before forwarding?
Many carriers forward after roughly 15 to 25 seconds; some let you adjust it. Pick a delay that gives you time to answer without making callers wait.