Call Forwarding Code: Complete Guide for All Carriers (2026)
Learn the universal call forwarding codes to activate, deactivate, and check call forwarding on any phone. Complete guide for AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile & more.
What Is a Call Forwarding Code and Why Should You Care?
A call forwarding code is a short dial sequence (like *72 or 21) that instantly redirects your incoming calls to another phone number. Instead of navigating through confusing phone menus or carrier apps, you dial a simple code and you're done in seconds.
But here's what most guides don't tell you: these codes vary significantly between carriers. What works on Verizon won't work on T-Mobile, and vice versa. Using the wrong code means nothing happens—or worse, you might accidentally forward calls to the wrong number.
In this guide, you'll learn the exact codes for your carrier, how to check if forwarding is already active (important for security), and troubleshooting steps when things don't work as expected.
Quick Reference: Call Forwarding Codes by Carrier
Before diving into details, here's what you came for—the codes organized by carrier:
Verizon Call Forwarding Codes
Verizon uses the traditional North American star codes:
Example: To forward all calls to 555-123-4567, dial: *725551234567 and press Call.
AT&T Call Forwarding Codes
AT&T uses GSM/USSD codes since they operate on a GSM network:
Example: To forward all calls on AT&T, dial: *21*5551234567# and press Call.
T-Mobile Call Forwarding Codes
T-Mobile uses the same GSM codes as AT&T:
Pro Tip: The ##002# code cancels ALL types of forwarding at once—useful when you're not sure what's been set up.
US Cellular Call Forwarding Codes
US Cellular follows the Verizon pattern:
Understanding the Two Types of Forwarding Codes
Why do different carriers use different codes? It comes down to network technology.
North American Star Codes (*72/*73)
These codes have been around since landline days and work on CDMA networks (Verizon, US Cellular). They're simple but limited—you can only forward all calls or cancel forwarding.
How they work:
GSM/USSD Codes (21, #21#, etc.)
These are more powerful codes used by GSM networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, and most international carriers). They offer granular control over different forwarding scenarios.
Key advantages:
How to Check If Call Forwarding Is Active on Your Phone
This is crucial for security. Scammers can enable call forwarding without your knowledge, intercepting your calls and even stealing one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via phone call.
Check Forwarding Status (GSM Networks: AT&T, T-Mobile)
Dial these codes and press Call:
#21##67##61##62##004#You'll see a message indicating whether forwarding is enabled and to which number.
Check Forwarding Status (Verizon)
Verizon doesn't have a status check code. Instead:
Check Via Phone Settings
iPhone: Settings → Phone → Call Forwarding (shows status and number)
Android: Phone app → Three dots → Settings → Calls → Call Forwarding
How to Turn Off Call Forwarding Completely
If you're having issues or suspect unauthorized forwarding, here's how to cancel everything:
The Nuclear Option (GSM Networks)
Dial ##002# and press Call. This cancels ALL types of call forwarding in one go.
Carrier-Specific Deactivation
If Codes Don't Work
Sometimes codes fail due to network issues. Alternative methods:
Call Forwarding on iPhone and Android (Settings Method)
Don't want to memorize codes? Both platforms have built-in settings.
iPhone Call Forwarding
Limitation: This only forwards ALL calls. For conditional forwarding (busy, no answer), you must use dial codes.
Android Call Forwarding
Note: The exact path varies by Android manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).
Common Call Forwarding Problems and How to Fix Them
"Connection Problem" or "Invalid MMI Code" Error
Causes:
Solutions:
Calls Still Going to Voicemail
Call forwarding and voicemail are separate systems. If calls go to voicemail, forwarding might be set to forward to voicemail.
Fix: Dial ##004# to cancel conditional forwarding, then set up forwarding fresh.
Forwarding Works, But Caller Hears Many Rings
On GSM networks, you can set how long your phone rings before forwarding. The default is often 20-30 seconds.
Adjust ring time: Dial *61*[number]**[seconds]#
Example: *61*5551234567**10# forwards after 10 seconds (options: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 seconds).
"Feature Not Available" Message
Your plan might not include call forwarding, or you're outside your carrier's coverage area. Contact your carrier to verify call forwarding is enabled on your account.
Call Forwarding Security: Protecting Yourself from Scams
Here's something most articles skip: call forwarding can be weaponized against you.
How Call Forwarding Scams Work
Warning Signs Your Calls Are Being Forwarded
How to Protect Yourself
#21# (GSM) or your carrier appImportant Limitations to Know
Before relying on call forwarding, understand these restrictions:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone forward my calls without me knowing?
Yes, if they have physical access to your phone or trick you into dialing a forwarding code. Regularly check your forwarding status using *#21# (AT&T/T-Mobile) or your carrier's app.
Does call forwarding work when my phone is off?
Only if you set up "forward when unreachable" (*62*[number]# on GSM networks). Regular forwarding (*21*) typically requires your phone to be on and connected to the network.
Will the caller know their call was forwarded?
Usually no. The call simply connects to the forwarding destination. However, some callers may notice a different ring pattern or slight delay.
Is call forwarding free?
The feature itself is typically free. However, you may be charged for the forwarded call as if you answered it yourself—check your plan if you don't have unlimited minutes.
What's the difference between call forwarding and call diverting?
They're the same thing. "Call divert" is the term used in the UK, Australia, and other countries. In the US, we say "call forwarding."
Can I forward calls to a landline?
Yes, you can forward to any valid phone number within your country, including landlines and VoIP numbers like Google Voice.
Why did my call forwarding stop working after a software update?
Updates can reset network settings. Re-enable forwarding through Settings or by dialing the activation code again. If problems persist, reset network settings (Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings on iPhone).
How do I forward calls to voicemail only?
On GSM networks, dial *21 to forward all calls to voicemail, or *61*[voicemail number]# to forward only unanswered calls.
Wrapping Up
Call forwarding is a powerful feature that's been around for decades, yet most people only scratch the surface of what's possible. Whether you're using Verizon's simple *72/*73 codes or T-Mobile's more granular GSM options, knowing the right codes saves time and frustration.
Key takeaways:
#21#)Bookmark this guide for quick reference—you never know when you'll need to redirect your calls in a pinch.
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