How to forward calls on Google Voice
Google Voice uses "linked numbers" to forward incoming calls. You can add any phone number as a destination, and Google Voice will ring it when someone calls your Google Voice number.
The quick version
Go to voice.google.com, click Settings (gear icon), open Calls, and add the destination number under "Linked numbers" or "Forwarding numbers." Calls to your Google Voice number ring the destination.
Step-by-step: set up call forwarding in Google Voice
Alternative: Google Voice for Workspace (business Google Voice)
If you have Google Voice as part of a Google Workspace subscription, the admin controls some forwarding rules at admin.google.com → Apps → Google Workspace → Google Voice. Individual users still manage their own forwarding from voice.google.com.
Things worth knowing
- Free Google Voice only supports forwarding to US and Canadian numbers — no international. Paid Google Voice for Workspace supports more destinations.
- "Do Not Disturb" in Google Voice sends calls straight to voicemail and bypasses forwarding. If forwarding suddenly stops working, check that DND isn't on.
- You can set different schedules ("Work hours" vs "Personal hours") under Settings → Schedule, so calls only forward to your AI during specific hours.
- Google Voice is free-but-quirky for business use. If you're relying on it, consider whether a dedicated business line (from any carrier) plus a Human Add AI receptionist would be more reliable.
The whole reason you're reading this is probably to stop missing calls. If you're setting up call forwarding to send calls to a voice assistant, an answering service, or an AI, the steps above are the same — you just enter their number as the forward-to destination. Human Add AI gives you a dedicated AI receptionist that answers 24/7, captures every caller's intent, and texts you the details. Try it free for 7 days →
Troubleshooting
- Calls still ring the old way. Most VoIP systems take 30–60 seconds to apply forwarding changes. Wait and test again. If it still doesn't work, sign out and back in, or restart the desk phone.
- You saved the rule but don't see it. Google Voice usually applies rules to one specific number or extension. Make sure you're editing the right one — business accounts often have multiple numbers on the same login.
- Callers hear "number not in service." Double-check the destination number you entered. Google Voice often requires the full 10-digit US format, sometimes with a +1 prefix.
- You want some calls to stop forwarding. Most Google Voice plans support conditional rules (forward only after X rings, forward only from Y caller ID, etc.). Look for "Advanced" or "Rules" in the forwarding settings.