How to Forward Calls on Android (Settings and Star Codes)
Forward Android calls via Phone app Settings > Calls > Call forwarding, or dial carrier codes such as Verizon *72 + number / *73 off. Includes Always forward path and test checklist.
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
“How to forward calls on Android” almost always means the stock Phone app path plus a carrier fallback. AT&T’s Android device articles show: Phone app → Menu → Settings → Calls → Call forwarding → Always forward → enter number → TURN ON, and TURN OFF on the same screen when finished [AT&T Call Forwarding, checked 2026-10-19]. Some Motorola/AT&T models nest the control under Calling accounts → AT&T → Call forwarding instead.
Android settings path (step by step)
1. Open the Phone app (not Messages). 2. Tap the three-dot menu and open Settings. 3. Open Calls, or Calling accounts and then your SIM/carrier label. 4. Tap Call forwarding. 5. Select Always forward (unconditional). 6. Type the full destination number and tap TURN ON. 7. Confirm the status bar or Call forwarding icon appears if your OEM shows one.
To change the number later, reopen Always forward, edit the digits, and tap UPDATE where the UI offers it [AT&T Motorola Call Forwarding, checked 2026-10-19].
Star-code fallback when the menu will not save
Verizon wireless: dial *72 followed by the 10-digit forwarding number, wait for beeps / automatic end; dial *73 to turn forwarding off. Conditional busy/no-answer style forwarding uses *71 plus the number [Verizon Turn Call Forwarding On; Verizon FAQs, checked 2026-10-19].
AT&T’s generic wireless article shows enable with *21 + 10-digit number + #, and disable with #21#, waiting for the confirmation tone [AT&T Call Forwarding]. Prefer the model page when it conflicts with the generic code sheet.
Verify and undo
Always finish with an inbound test from a second phone. If the Android menu shows forwarding off but calls still divert, run the cancel strings in call forwarding deactivate code (##002# on many GSM lines, *73 on Verizon) and retest.
Verizon notes you cannot manage forwarding without the handset (aside from calling support), destinations must be U.S. 10-digit voice lines, and SMS does not forward with the voice feature [Verizon FAQs].
FAQ
Why is the forwarding toggle greyed out?
The SIM may not expose the supplementary service, or the OEM buried it under the carrier account label. Ask support to turn the feature on, or try the published star string while on the home network.
Does unconditional divert still make my handset ring?
Under Verizon’s write-up of immediate forwarding, your device stays quiet and the other line answers instead.
Can I divert only when I miss the call?
Yes on many plans: use the unanswered-style star string published by your carrier (Verizon’s page shows a *71 pattern). Some dialer menus also list busy or unanswered rows.
Will WhatsApp or SMS follow the divert?
Carrier Call Forwarding moves voice traffic. Texts stay on the original line per that FAQ set.