How call forwarding works
Call forwarding tells your carrier to redirect incoming calls to a different number. There are four types, and each one covers a different scenario:
- No answer: Your phone rings for a set time, then forwards. This is the most common setup for business use.
- Busy: Forwards only when you're already on another call.
- Not reachable: Forwards when your phone is off or has no signal.
- Unconditional: Forwards every call immediately. Your phone never rings.
Most business owners combine "no answer," "busy," and "not reachable" to catch every call they might miss. The tool above generates the GSM code for each type, which you dial from your phone's keypad.
Setting up via phone settings
iPhone
Open Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding, toggle it on, and enter the destination number. Note: iPhone settings only support unconditional forwarding. For conditional forwarding (no answer, busy), use the GSM codes from the tool above.
Android
Open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu, go to Settings > Call settings > Call forwarding. Select the forwarding type and enter the number. The exact menu path varies by manufacturer (Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi).
Common questions
Does call forwarding cost anything?
With most carriers, forwarded calls are billed as an outgoing call from your number to the destination number. Check with your carrier if you're unsure. Some business plans include forwarding at no extra charge.
Can I forward to a number in another country?
Yes, but international forwarding rates apply. Make sure to include the full country code when entering the number (e.g., +49 for Germany, +43 for Austria).
How do I cancel forwarding?
Dial ##002# from your phone to cancel all active forwarding rules. This code works with every carrier.
Forward calls to an AI assistant
Call forwarding is most useful when there's someone (or something) ready to pick up on the other end. An AI phone assistant like Safina answers forwarded calls, has a natural conversation with the caller, and sends you a summary with action items.
You get a dedicated phone number when you sign up. Just enter it in the tool above, and every missed call goes to Safina instead of voicemail. Calculate what missed calls cost you to see whether it's worth it.