How to Forward Calls: iPhone & Android Settings Guide

Call forwarding is a simple feature that often trips people up because the steps and codes differ between iPhone, Samsung, and individual carriers. This guide covers the exact settings for both platforms, explains the universal star codes, and tells you what to check when calls just won’t divert.

Call forwarding activation (universal): *72 + number + Send covers most networks ·
Call forwarding deactivation (universal): *73 works on many carriers ·
iPhone toggle location: Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding ·
Samsung toggle location: Phone app > three-dot menu > Settings > Call Forwarding ·
Conditional call forwarding code (unconditional): *21*number# on GSM networks

The table below summarizes the key facts and code differences you’ll need to know.

How do I activate call forwarding?

Using the phone dial pad codes

The fastest way to set up forwarding—especially when the on-screen menu isn’t available—is to dial a star code. On many carriers, the universal unconditional forwarding code is *72 followed by the destination number and the Send key. For example, dial *721234567890# and press Send. This works on Verizon and several other US networks, though AT&T and T-Mobile often use *21*number# instead (Asurion (tech support provider)). Conditional codes exist for busy (*67*number#), unanswered (*61*number#), and unreachable (*62*number#) situations.

You can check the status of any forwarding by dialing *#21# (all) or *#61# (on no answer). To turn off all forwarding instantly, use the master GSM code ##002# and press Send (BubblyPhone (GSM code reference)).

Using the phone settings menu

If you prefer a visual interface, most smartphones offer a toggle inside the Phone settings. On iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding and flip the switch on. Add the forwarding number, including area code (Apple Support (official iPhone documentation)). On Samsung, open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu, choose Settings > Call Forwarding, then pick the forwarding type and enter the number (Ringflow (telecom blog)).

How do I forward incoming calls to another number?

When you set up call forwarding, you need to enter a full number—including the area code and, for international destinations, the country code. Here’s how to do it for different types of destinations.

Forwarding to a mobile number

Enter the 10-digit mobile number (or 11 with the leading 1 for US/Canada) after the activation code or in the settings field. On iPhone, after toggling on Call Forwarding, you’ll see a number entry field—type the mobile number and tap Back (Apple Support). On Samsung, once you choose a forwarding condition, you’ll be prompted for the number.

Forwarding to a landline number

The same process applies for landlines—just include the area code. Some carriers require the full number with international prefix even for domestic landlines. If you’re forwarding from a business line to a desk phone, test the number first by calling it from another device (Apple Support).

Forwarding to an international number (check carrier rates)

Forwarding overseas works the same way, but you’ll need the country code (e.g., +44 for the UK). Important: international forwarding charges apply at your carrier’s roaming or calling rate, which can be steep. Check with your provider before enabling (Ringflow (telecom blog)).

How do I turn on call forwarding on my phone?

Turning on call forwarding can be done through settings or codes. Here are the exact steps for the two most common platforms.

Turn on call forwarding on iPhone

1. Open Settings and tap Phone.
2. Select Call Forwarding and toggle the switch on.
3. Enter the number you want calls forwarded to, then tap the Back button to save (Apple Support (official iPhone documentation)).

Turn on call forwarding on Samsung/Android

1. Open the Phone app and tap the three-dot menu (top-right or bottom-right).
2. Go to Settings > Call Forwarding.
3. Select the line (SIM1 or SIM2 for dual-SIM devices).
4. Pick a forwarding condition (always, when busy, when unanswered, when unreachable) and enter the destination number (Ringflow (telecom blog)).

Some carriers may require you to use a star code instead of the menu if the menu option is absent—this is more common on older Android phones or CDMA devices (Asurion (tech support provider)).

Why won’t my phone divert?

When call forwarding doesn’t work, three categories cause most failures.

Carrier restrictions

Not all carriers support call forwarding, and some require a specific plan or fee. On US Cellular, for example, older CDMA iPhones may lack the forwarding menu entirely and must rely on star codes. Always verify with your carrier first (Asurion (tech support provider)).

Network issues

Airplane mode, weak signal, or being outside the coverage area will block the forwarding setup command. Ensure you have a stable connection before trying to activate (Asurion (tech support provider)).

Incorrect settings

Double-check the forwarding number—missing digits, wrong area code, or extra spaces are common errors. Also ensure you’ve saved the setting after entering the number. On iPhone, a checkmark or back arrow means it’s saved; on Samsung, you’ll see the forwarding type listed as active (Apple Support).

How do I divert my husband’s call to my phone Samsung?

If you want incoming calls destined for your husband’s number to ring on your Samsung phone, you need to set up call forwarding on his line—either from his phone or via carrier code. Here’s how to do it on his Samsung.

Accessing call settings on Samsung

1. On his Samsung, open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu and go to Settings > Call Forwarding.
3. If the phone is dual-SIM, select the line that receives his calls (Ringflow (telecom blog)).

Forwarding a specific line

Once in the forwarding menu, choose the condition (usually “Always forward”) and enter your phone number—include the area code. Tap Save or Enable. After activation, test by having someone call his number; it should ring on your phone (Safina (call forwarding guide)).

“You can forward calls to another phone number only when Call Forwarding is turned on. When it’s on, incoming calls are sent to the number you specify.”

— Apple Support (official iPhone documentation, updated September 2026)

“Samsung phones commonly surface call forwarding under the Phone app’s settings or supplementary services menu rather than a dedicated Apple-style toggle.”

— Ringflow (telecom blog)

Frequently asked questions

The pattern is consistent: check your carrier’s code, enter the full destination number, and verify by testing. If you skip the carrier check, you risk calls bouncing back to voicemail.