Master call forwarding on any phone system with step-by-step instructions, plus discover how AI receptionists can automate call routing for maximum efficiency.
How to forward a call depends on your phone system, but the basic concept remains the same: redirecting incoming calls from one number to another. Whether you're using a traditional landline, modern VoIP system, or smartphone, call forwarding ensures you rarely miss important business calls. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover manual call forwarding methods for every major phone system, plus show you how modern AI receptionists can automate this process entirely.
Most phone systems: Dial *72 (or *21), wait for dial tone, then dial the forwarding number and press # or hang up when answered. To cancel: dial *73 (or #21#). However, each system has variations, so check the specific instructions below for your phone type.
Call forwarding is a telecommunication feature that redirects incoming calls from one phone number to another number of your choice. This can be:
1Activate: Pick up the phone and dial *72
2Wait: Listen for a dial tone or confirmation beep
3Enter number: Dial the complete phone number where you want calls forwarded
4Confirm: Wait for the destination phone to ring and be answered, or hang up after hearing confirmation
5Deactivate: Dial *73 to turn off call forwarding
1Open Settings: Go to Settings app
2Find Phone: Scroll down and tap "Phone"
3Call Forwarding: Tap "Call Forwarding"
4Enable: Toggle "Call Forwarding" to ON
5Enter number: Input the forwarding phone number
6Save: Tap "Back" to save settings
1Open Phone app: Tap the Phone application
2Menu: Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) or Settings
3Call settings: Look for "Call settings" or "Calling accounts"
4Call forwarding: Tap "Call forwarding"
5Choose type: Select "often forward," "Forward when busy," etc.
6Enter number: Input destination number and tap "Turn on"
Most modern phone systems support different types of conditional forwarding:
| Forwarding Type | Activation Code | When It Activates | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward All Calls | *72 | Immediately for all calls | Vacation, working remotely |
| Forward When Busy | *90 | When line is already in use | Single-line businesses |
| Forward No Answer | *92 | After specified number of rings | Ensuring calls are answered |
| Forward Unreachable | *94 | When phone is off or out of service | Mobile backup scenarios |
Carrier charges may apply: Some phone carriers charge additional fees for call forwarding, especially for long-distance or international forwarding. Check with your provider about potential costs.
Forwarding loops: rarely forward a number back to itself or create a forwarding chain, as this can cause call loops and system issues.
| Carrier | Activate All | Deactivate | Forward When Busy | Forward No Answer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | *72 + number | *73 | *71 + number | *71 + number |
| AT&T | *72 + number | *73 | *90 + number | *92 + number |
| T-Mobile | **21* + number + # | ##21# | **67* + number + # | **61* + number + # |
| Sprint | *72 + number | *720 | *90 + number | *92 + number |
Manual call forwarding requires constant management and can miss calls during transitions. GreetSmartly's AI receptionist handles intelligent call routing automatically, ensuring every call reaches the right person or department without any manual intervention.
Try Automated Call Routing FreeWhile manual call forwarding works, it has significant limitations in today's business environment. Modern AI receptionists like GreetSmartly offer intelligent call routing that goes far beyond simple forwarding:
AI receptionists analyze incoming calls in real-time:
| Feature | Manual Forwarding | AI Call Routing |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | Manual codes each time | One-time automated setup |
| Intelligence | Forwards all calls blindly | Routes based on caller needs |
| Availability | 24/7 forwarding or nothing | Smart routing based on business hours |
| Information Capture | No caller information gathered | Collects caller details and needs |
| Backup Options | Single destination only | Multiple backup options with priorities |
| Cost | Carrier forwarding fees | All-inclusive AI service |
Stop managing call forwarding codes and start letting AI handle your calls intelligently. GreetSmartly's AI receptionist provides smarter routing, better caller experiences, and captures every business opportunity.
Understanding how to forward a call is essential for maintaining business communication, but the method you choose can significantly impact your success. While manual call forwarding using codes like *72 works for basic needs, modern businesses benefit more from intelligent AI call routing that handles complex scenarios automatically.
Key takeaways:
Whether you choose manual forwarding or upgrade to AI call routing, the most important thing is ensuring your callers can often reach you when they need to. In today's competitive business environment, every missed call is a missed opportunity.
