Call Forwarding Number: How to Set the Destination Digits
A call forwarding number is the 10-digit line that receives diverted calls. Verizon uses *72 + number; AT&T device help shows *21* style setup; Android and iPhone menus store the same digits.
Is it right for you?
Your checks are saved on this device only — they reset if you clear browser data or switch devices.
Quick answer
Searchers asking for a “call forwarding number” usually need the destination digits, not a special short code by itself. You combine a carrier activation code with that destination, or you paste the destination into the handset Call Forwarding menu.
Verizon’s public FAQs state you turn forwarding on by calling *72 plus the 10-digit number (example format *72-908-123-4567), turn it off with *73, and use *71 plus the number to forward only unanswered calls [Verizon Call Forwarding FAQs; Verizon: Turn Call Forwarding On from Device, checked 2026-10-19].
Carrier code table
| Carrier family | Set forwarding number | Cancel | Destination rules (as published) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon wireless | *72 + 10-digit number (immediate); *71 + number (no answer / busy style) | *73 | U.S. voice-capable 10-digit line; not international |
| AT&T device help (examples) | Dial *21* + 10-digit number + #, or use Phone settings Always forward | #21# or TURN OFF in settings | Follow the model-specific AT&T article for your handset |
Verizon also notes there is no monthly fee for Call Forwarding on most plans, but forwarded minutes bill like answered calls if you lack unlimited minutes, and you cannot manage forwarding without the handset (or by calling Customer Service) [Verizon FAQs, checked 2026-10-19].
AT&T’s generic wireless help shows turning forwarding on by dialing *21 followed by the 10-digit number and #, then waiting for a confirmation tone, and canceling with #21# [AT&T Call Forwarding, checked 2026-10-19]. Model pages may instead push the on-screen Always forward field, use the page that matches your device.
Enter the number in Android or iPhone settings
AT&T device tutorials for Android handsets typically path through Phone app → Menu → Settings → Calls (or Calling accounts) → Call forwarding → Always forward, then type the call forwarding number and choose TURN ON [AT&T Call Forwarding device help, checked 2026-10-19].
On iPhone, the parallel control is Settings → Phone → Call Forwarding, where you toggle the feature and type the destination. After saving, place an inbound test from a second line. If rings still miss, clear diversion with the deactivate codes in this deactivate guide.
What the forwarding number will not do
Verizon states Call Forwarding does not forward text messages, only voice calls. International destinations are not supported on that FAQ set. Setup while outside the Verizon coverage area or while traveling internationally may be blocked, though forwarding set beforehand can continue while you travel [Verizon FAQs].
Busy-tone after activation often means extra digits were pressed when storing the number; Verizon recommends setting *72 plus the number again carefully.
FAQ
Is there a universal short code that is itself the destination?
No. Star strings only flip diversion on or off. Where calls land is a separate full national number you append after *72, or type into the always-forward row.
Can I divert to an overseas mobile?
On Verizon, the public call-forwarding FAQ limits landings to domestic U.S. voice lines with a full 10-digit area code and does not support foreign destinations; for AT&T or other carriers, check that carrier’s own help page before you assume international divert works.
Do SMS messages move with the voice divert?
No on Verizon: its public call-forwarding FAQ states texts stay on the original line while only voice is redirected. Do not treat that as a universal carrier rule; confirm SMS behavior on your own plan’s help pages.
How do I change where calls land later?
Re-run the enable string with the new digits, or edit the always-forward row, then prove it by calling the line from another device you control.
What about office PBX lines?
Hunt groups keep destinations inside the PBX console. Handset USSD will not rewrite those queues. See hosted forwarding options for offices.