Want better management of your calls and messages? Transfer your existing number to Google Voice to enjoy powerful communication features from Google through a simple process. This guide will walk you through transferring your phone number to Google Voice.
What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a communication service provided by Google that offers a phone number you can use across multiple devices to manage calls, texts, and voicemails.
Key Features:
- Unified Number: Use the same number to make/receive calls and send texts from any location.
- Voicemail Transcription: Automatically converts voicemails to text for quick reading.
- Call Screening: View caller information before answering.
- Call Forwarding: Route calls to other devices or voicemail.
- Customization: Set personalized greetings and “Do Not Disturb” modes.
Advantages:
- Free Calls/Texts: Within the U.S. and Canada.
- Affordable International Calls: Competitive rates for international dialing.
- Multi-Platform Support: Accessible on computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Pre-Transfer Preparation
Before initiating the transfer, ensure you:
- Verify Eligibility:
- Your number must be U.S.-based.
- Confirm carrier support via Google Voice’s porting tool or your carrier.
- Gather Account Details:
- Carrier account number
- PIN/password
- Unlock Your Number: Contact your carrier to remove transfer restrictions.
- Create a Google Account: Required if you don’t have one.
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Create a Google Voice Account:
- Visit voice.google.com
- Sign in with your Google account
- Follow prompts to set up a new Voice number
Initiate Porting:
- Go to Settings → “Phones” tab
- Select “Transfer/Port a number”
Verify Ownership:
- Enter your current number
- Complete SMS/call verification
Submit Carrier Information:
- Provide account number and PIN
- Enter billing address associated with the carrier
Pay Porting Fee:
- One-time $20 fee (charged via Google Pay)
Await Completion:
- Typically completes within 24-48 hours
- Keep original service active during transfer
Confirm Success:
- Test incoming/outgoing calls
- Check SMS functionality
Important Considerations
- Cost: $20 one-time fee (non-refundable)
- Service Interruption: May experience 1-2 hours of downtime
- Carrier Restrictions: Some prepaid/mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) may block transfers
- Post-Transfer:
- Original carrier service will terminate
- Emergency 911 services require address registration
FAQ
Q: How long does number porting take?
A: Usually 24-48 hours. Business numbers may take longer.
Q: Can I keep my original carrier plan?
A: No - porting cancels your existing service.
Q: Are there recurring fees?
A: No, but international calls require prepaid credits.
Q: Can I port a landline?
A: Yes, but additional steps may apply. Contact Google Support.
Setting Up Voicemail & Preferences
Voicemail Configuration:
- Open Google Voice app → Settings → Voicemail
- Record custom greeting or use default
- Enable/disable transcriptions
Call Management:
- Set up spam filtering thresholds
- Configure device-specific forwarding rules
- Create custom schedules for “Do Not Disturb”
Troubleshooting Tips
- Porting Errors: Double-check carrier account details
- Verification Failures: Ensure number isn’t tied to another Google account
- Post-Transfer Issues: Reset network settings on mobile devices
Pro Tip: Use Google Voice’s “Linked Numbers” feature to maintain backup calling options during the transition.
Last Updated: 2025-01-03 | For official documentation, visit Google Voice Help