How to Turn Off Call Forwarding: A Complete Guide

Call forwarding is a useful feature that allows you to redirect calls from one phone number to another. However, there are times when you no longer need this feature and want to disable it. Whether you’re using an Android, iPhone, or a landline, turning off call forwarding is a straightforward process. In this guide, you will learn how to turn off call forwarding and walk through the different methods to disable call forwarding on various devices and carriers.

What Is Call Forwarding?

Call forwarding is a telecom service that automatically redirects incoming calls to another phone number. It is commonly used when you are unable to answer calls on your primary number due to being busy, out of coverage, or traveling. However, if you no longer need this service, disabling it can help ensure that all calls come directly to your phone.

Why Turn Off Call Forwarding?

There are several reasons why you may want to disable call forwarding:

• Missed Calls: You may be missing important calls because they are being forwarded to another number.
• Unwanted Charges: Some call forwarding services may incur additional costs.
• Privacy Concerns: You may no longer want calls to be forwarded to another person or service.
• Restoring Normal Functionality: If you activated call forwarding temporarily, you might want to revert to receiving calls on your primary number.

Read more about: Why are My Calls Going to Another Phone Android

How to Turn Off Call Forwarding on Android

Disabling call forwarding on Android devices is simple and can be done using the phone settings or dial codes.

Method 1: Using Phone Settings

1. Open the Phone App: Launch the dialer or phone app on your Android device.
2. Access Call Settings: Tap on the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top right corner and select Settings.
3. Select Call Forwarding: Navigate to Call forwarding under the Call settings or Supplementary services section.
4. Disable Forwarding Options: You will see four call forwarding options:
   • Always forward
   • Forward when busy
   • Forward when unanswered
   • Forward when unreachable
   • Tap on each option and select Disable or Turn off.
5. Save Changes: Exit the settings, and your call forwarding should be turned off.

Method 2: Using Dial Codes

You can also disable call forwarding using dial codes, which work across most Android devices.

1. Open the Phone App.
2. Dial the following codes based on your forwarding type:
   • To disable all call forwarding: Dial ##002# and press Call.
   • To disable forward when busy: Dial ##67# and press Call.
   • To disable forward when unanswered: Dial ##61# and press Call.
   • To disable forward when unreachable: Dial ##62# and press Call.
3. You should receive a confirmation message that call forwarding has been disabled.

How to Turn Off Call Forwarding on iPhone

Disabling call forwarding on an iPhone is just as simple as on Android devices.

Method 1: Using iPhone Settings

1. Open the Settings App: Unlock your iPhone and open the Settings app.
2. Go to Phone Settings: Scroll down and tap on Phone.
3. Select Call Forwarding: Tap on Call Forwarding.
4. Turn Off Call Forwarding: Toggle the switch to Off.

Method 2: Using Dial Codes

Just like Android, iPhones also support dial codes for disabling call forwarding.

1. Open the Phone App.
2. Dial ##002# and press Call.
3. A confirmation message will appear, confirming that call forwarding has been disabled.

How to Turn Off Call Forwarding on a Landline

If you have a traditional landline phone, the process of disabling call forwarding depends on your service provider.

General Method for Most Landlines

1. Pick Up the Receiver and listen for the dial tone.
2. Dial the Deactivation Code:
   • For most landlines, dial ##21# or *73 and press Call.
   • Some providers use #21# instead.
3. Wait for the Confirmation Tone.
4. Hang Up the Phone.

If the above codes do not work, contact your service provider for the correct call forwarding deactivation code.

How to Turn Off Call Forwarding on Major Network Carriers

Different mobile carriers may have specific ways to disable call forwarding. Here’s how you can do it for some major providers:

AT&T

• Dial #21# and press Call to disable all call forwarding.
• Alternatively, call AT&T customer service at 611 for assistance.

Verizon

• Dial *73 and press Call to turn off call forwarding.
• If *73 does not work, try *920.

T-Mobile

• Dial ##004# and press Call to disable all call forwarding settings.

Sprint

• Dial *720 and press Call to turn off call forwarding.

If you are unsure which carrier-specific code to use, check your provider’s website or contact customer support.

Troubleshooting Call Forwarding Issues

If you have tried the methods above and are still experiencing issues with call forwarding, consider these troubleshooting steps:

1. Restart Your Device: Sometimes, changes may not take effect until you restart your phone.
2. Check for Carrier Restrictions: Some carriers may have specific restrictions that require you to call customer service.
3. Reset Network Settings: On Android, go to Settings > System > Reset > Reset Network Settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
4. Update Your Phone’s Software: Make sure your device’s operating system is up to date.
5. Contact Your Service Provider: If nothing works, reach out to your carrier for further assistance.

Conclusion

Turning off call forwarding is a simple process, whether you’re using an Android, iPhone, or a landline. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your calls come directly to your phone without being redirected. If you run into any issues, using the troubleshooting steps or contacting your carrier can help resolve them quickly. Now that you know how to disable call forwarding, you can take control of your incoming calls with ease!

By following this guide, you ensure a hassle-free experience in managing your call settings. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might need assistance in disabling call forwarding.