How to forward calls from AT&T

If you're using AT&T and want to make sure you never miss an important call—whether you’re trying a service like Upfirst, heading out of town, or just want calls to go to another number—call forwarding is the answer. This page will walk you through how to set up different types of call forwarding on your AT&T phone, whether you want to forward all calls or just the ones you can’t answer.

How to forward all calls from AT&T

Forwarding all calls means every call to your AT&T number will ring at a new number you choose. Here’s how you can set it up:

1. Open your phone’s dialer as if you’re going to make a call.
2. Dial *21* followed by the 10-digit phone number you want your calls forwarded to, then end with #.
   Example: Dial *21*1234567890#
3. Press the call/send button.
4. Wait for a confirmation message or tone. You should hear a confirmation tone or see a message that call forwarding is active.
5. Hang up. All incoming calls will now be forwarded to your chosen number.

Tip: This works for most AT&T wireless phones. For landlines, the process may be slightly different—check your specific AT&T service guide.

How to forward only missed calls (conditional call forwarding) on AT&T

Conditional call forwarding sends calls to another number only when you don’t answer, your phone is busy, or it’s unreachable. This is great if you want to try an answering service like Upfirst, but still want your phone to ring first.

Here’s how to turn on conditional call forwarding:

1. Open your phone’s dialer.
2. Choose the type of missed call you want to forward:
   • No answer: Dial *61* + forwarding number + #
   • Busy: Dial *67* + forwarding number + #
   • Unreachable: Dial *62* + forwarding number + #
3. Press the call/send button.
4. Wait for the confirmation tone or message.
5. Hang up. Now, only calls you miss (for the selected option) will be sent to the number you chose.

Example:
To forward calls you miss (no answer) to 123-456-7890, dial *61*1234567890# and press call.

How to turn off call forwarding on AT&T

If you want to stop forwarding calls and have them ring on your AT&T phone again, follow these steps:

1. Open your phone’s dialer.
2. To turn off all call forwarding: Dial ##21# and press call/send.
3. To turn off conditional call forwarding only:
   • No answer: Dial ##61# and press call.
   • Busy: Dial ##67# and press call.
   • Unreachable: Dial ##62# and press call.
4. Wait for the confirmation message or tone.
5. Hang up. Call forwarding is now disabled.

FAQs about call forwarding on AT&T

Does AT&T charge for call forwarding?
AT&T does not charge extra for setting up call forwarding, but you may be billed for any calls forwarded to another number as if you made the call yourself. If you forward calls to a long-distance or international number, additional charges may apply.

Can I forward calls internationally with AT&T?
In most cases, you can forward calls to an international number, but this may depend on your AT&T plan. Be aware that international call forwarding can result in high per-minute charges.

Will my phone still ring when call forwarding is enabled?
If you set up immediate (unconditional) call forwarding, your phone will not ring—the call goes straight to the forwarded number. With conditional call forwarding, your phone will ring first, and if you don’t answer, the call is forwarded.

Can I forward text messages too?
No, AT&T’s call forwarding feature only works for voice calls. Text messages will still be delivered to your original number and cannot be automatically forwarded.

How is immediate forwarding different from conditional forwarding?
Immediate (unconditional) forwarding sends all calls to another number without ringing your phone. Conditional forwarding only sends calls you miss, when you’re busy, or unreachable, allowing you to answer if you can.

Can I set up call forwarding from the AT&T app or website?
Some AT&T accounts may allow you to manage call forwarding through the myAT&T app or online account settings, but dial codes work for most users and are the fastest option.

Don’t want to miss any important calls, ever? Forward your AT&T number to Upfirst, the AI answering service that acts like your own smart receptionist. Upfirst will answer your calls, respond to questions, and send you a simple summary via email or SMS. Try Upfirst risk-free with a 14-day free trial and stop sending customers to voicemail!