How To Fix Call Forwarding Issue?

You set up call forwarding to stay connected.

But now, calls are missing, dropping, or going silent. Frustrating, right?

Whether it’s your mobile, VoIP, or office phone, when call forwarding breaks, everything feels stuck.

Clients can’t reach you. Support lines fail. Opportunities vanish without notice.

The cause?

It’s often a tiny setting, an expired rule, or a network hiccup no one warned you about.

If you’re wondering how to fix call forwarding issues without getting lost in tech jargon, you’re in the right place.

This blog unpacks the real reasons behind call forwarding issues. From landlines to cloud systems, we’ve got you covered, clearly, without any guesswork.

Let’s dive into it without delay.

Key Highlights

• Most call forwarding issues come from small missteps, like wrong numbers, outdated settings, or time-based rules.
• Troubleshooting starts with knowing your system type: PSTN, mobile, VoIP, softphone, or unified communications.
• Carrier-level blocks and network issues are common causes, especially in landline and mobile setups.
• VoIP systems need extra checks, including trunk status, app updates, and syncing across devices.
• A calm, step-by-step approach helps uncover the real cause of the forwarding issue without needing technical expertise.

How to Find Out the Cause of the Call Forwarding Issue?

How do you fix something? You first find out what’s broken.

Finding the cause is the next step before any fix.

So, start by identifying the root cause of the problem. Let’s look at what you should check first.

1. Identify the Type of Call Forwarding System in Use

Not all call forwarding systems work the same. It depends on what you’re using. Some use landlines. Others run through mobile carriers. Many of us today use VoIP or hosted platforms.

Softphone apps and cloud PBX setups have their own methods, too. Knowing the system type helps you narrow down the possible causes quickly. Once that’s clear, you can move to the next layer, i.e., settings and configurations.

2. Verify the Call Forwarding Configuration

You need to be careful with the call forwarding setup; one small mistake can stop it from working. So, pay attention to the forwarding number. Is it typed right? Does that number still work? Check if time-based rules are active.

Also, make sure the conditional settings like “forward when busy” are correctly triggered. Once you confirm these, you’ll be ready to test things live and gather a bit more data.

3. Run Test Calls & Collect Call Flow Logs

Testing in action is one of the greatest ways of discovering an issue. Press the number on other phones. Observe what occurs every time. Note at which number it rings, at which it fails, or goes directly to voicemail.

Whether you are using VoIP or PBX tools, take a look at any call logs or call records. They regularly indicate the point of cessation or fallback of forwarding. Having understood that, you are now able to follow the call flow.

4. Trace the Call Path

Each call passes through a route even when it rings briefly. It can either go through your PBX, the cloud server, or through the carrier only. There are times when it is lost in between. On other occasions, it does not move out of the source.

Following the track will allow you to know which segment requires care. As soon as that is understood, you could proceed to checking networks and device rules.

5. Inspect Network or Device Restrictions

Sometimes the issue remains in the network or the phone itself. For Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), check if the internet is stable and the ports are open. A blocked port can stop the call from leaving. On mobile, weak signals or low battery modes can block forwarding, too.

On the other hand, softphones depend on app permissions, background access, or data saving settings. If the device restricts anything, the call might fail silently. Now, it’s easier to look for common error patterns.

6. Investigate Common Error Patterns

Most call forwarding issues follow patterns. Recognizing them helps you know where to look next. If it rings once and then ends, the number might be unreachable. If it goes to voicemail too quickly, a conditional rule may be active.

If nothing happens at all, the feature might be off or stuck. Sometimes, calls loop in circles, which usually means two numbers are forwarding back to each other. These patterns offer clues. Spotting them early saves time in later steps.

7. Carrier and Provider-Level Checks

Sometimes forwarding stops due to a carrier glitch or an update delay. Other times, forwarding isn’t enabled on your account at all. You need to reach out to your provider.

They may spot a mismatch or restriction and reset it from their side. That step often clears issues that nothing else can.

8. Use Built-in Diagnostic Tools

Many systems have great tools, but they are not used often. VoIP systems typically include a call tracking dashboard. Cell phones provide service codes where you can look at forwarding status.

Your hosted PBX can allow you to emulate forwarding or see routing logs. These instruments help to comprehend what is happening.

They don’t fix the issue directly, but they often show where the fix needs to happen.

Finding the cause of a call forwarding issue isn’t always quick, but narrowing it down makes fixing it much easier. Once you know the system type and the spot where things go wrong, the rest becomes manageable.

Now that the cause is clear, it’s time to walk through the actual fixes, starting with traditional lines.

How to Fix Call Forwarding Issues for Traditional PSTN

Traditional landlines still play a role in many offices and homes. But when call forwarding fails on these systems, the fixes aren’t always obvious.

They rely on physical connections, basic dial codes, and old-school carrier logic.

If you’re using a PSTN or analog setup, here’s how to get forwarding working again, one step at a time.

I. For Landlines (Analog or Digital)

Landlines may seem outdated, but still, many depend on them for reliable communication.

When there are call forwarding issues on these lines, the cause is usually small, a missed code, a loose wire, or a provider-side block.

Let us walk you through the steps that usually bring things back to normal.

Step 1: Check if Call Forwarding Is Enabled

First, dial *72 on your phone, then type the number you want to forward the calls to. If you hear a beep or tone, it probably worked. But if there’s silence or the call ends, it might not have gone through. Try calling that number yourself. Make sure it rings and actually connects.

Dead numbers, as is obvious, will break forwarding without warning. Sometimes the setup just needs to be re-entered, even if it looks right. So, you should start again slowly.

Step 2: Disable and Re-enable Call Forwarding

Next, start by turning it off completely. Dial *73 and wait for the tone, or just hang up after a moment. That should cancel anything stuck or half-active. Now, pause for 10 to 15 seconds. Then try setting it again.

Follow the same process. If there’s a confirmation tone, that’s a good sign. You can even try a test call to see if it forwards right away. Some systems just need a fresh start.

Step 3: Inspect Physical Line Connections

You may need to check if the cable is tight where it plugs in. Check to see if it’s loose. Dust, wear, or even a weak clip can cause issues. If there’s a splitter, remove it and test the phone directly.

There’s no harm in keeping things simple while troubleshooting. Some people swap phones entirely just to rule that out. It is not compulsory, but if you’ve got a spare, you might as well try.

Step 4: Restart the Landline Device

If you’re using a cordless phone or anything with a digital display, pull the plug. Wait for around 30 seconds before you power it back up. For landlines connected through an internet modem box, unplug that, too. Wait until all the lights come back on fully.

Now try using call forwarding again. Sometimes, these devices just need a clean slate.

Step 5: Contact Your Landline Provider

After everything, if forwarding still doesn’t work, check with your landline provider. The feature may not be enabled for your line anymore. Ask your provider if call forwarding is active and tied to your account.

They might refresh the feature on their end. If it’s not included in your plan, they’ll tell you.

Follow these steps in case of issues with your landline forwarding. Now let’s move on to mobile phones, especially those running on basic carrier networks without internet calling.

II. For Basic mobile services (without IP)

Mobile call forwarding uses network rules. Most of the time, it’s controlled through codes or basic menu settings. But it can break quietly, without warning.

Step 1: Use Carrier-Specific Call Forwarding Codes

Every carrier has its own approach. Most GSM networks accept 21 followed by the number and a hash at the end. For instance, 211234567890#. That turns on forwarding for all calls.

You can check the status using *#21#*. If forwarding is active, it’ll show the number where calls are being sent. Sometimes, call forwarding fails right after you’ve set it up if the destination number isn’t valid. Call it directly to check.

If you aren’t sure the right code was used, just clear everything. Dial ##21# to cancel all forwarding rules. Then start again from scratch.

Step 2: Disable Forwarding and Reconfigure

Most modern phones let you manage call forwarding through the settings. Go into the call menu. Look for forwarding options. Make sure the rule is active and the number is correct.

Sometimes the phone shows “activating” forever. That usually means the setting didn’t register. Try putting your phone in airplane mode. Wait a few seconds. Turn it back off. This resets your connection with the mobile tower.

Go back to the settings and try again.

Step 3: Check Mobile Call Settings

Open the Phone app and look for settings. On Android, go to “Calls” or “Call Settings.” On iPhones, go to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. Check if it’s turned on, and make sure the number is still accurate.

Sometimes the settings remain even when the number becomes unreachable. Other times, a small system update turns forwarding off in the background. Toggle the setting off, wait for a few seconds, then toggle it back on. Give it a test call again.

Step 4: Toggle Airplane Mode

You may try turning on airplane mode. Wait ten seconds, then turn it off again. This forces your phone to reconnect to the mobile network neatly.

Sometimes it’s enough to trigger old rules back into place. It doesn’t fix everything, but it clears up network weirdness. Try your test call again to check if anything has changed.

Step 5: Restart Your Mobile Device

This might sound simple, but it’s with doing. Restart your phone completely. Power off your phone and power it back on. Once it boots up, wait until you see full signal bars. It signifies that your phone reconnected to the carrier.

Now check the forwarding setting again to make sure it’s stuck. Then, call your number from another line and see where it goes.

Step 6: Contact Carrier Support

If none of the above ways work, it might be a carrier issue. So, give your provider a call. Sometimes, call forwarding isn’t part of your plan anymore. Or, something in their system blocks it without alerting you. Inform them what you’ve already tried.

Your provider can check your account, reset the feature, or enable it again. This part only takes a few minutes, but it’s often what solves things for good.

Fixes for VoIP-Based Call Forwarding Issues

VoIP systems offer flexibility, but that flexibility means more places where things can go wrong. If there is a call forwarding issue, it might be a setting, a sync issue, or even just something that didn’t update correctly.

You don’t always need to be technical, just patient, and a little methodical.

Let’s start with SIP setups and move through the rest.

I. For VoIP (SIP-based)

Step 1: Log in to Your SIP Provider Dashboard

If you’re using a VoIP provider like Dialaxy, open your dashboard and sign in. Look for the extension or user where call forwarding is set. If there’s no forwarding rule, that’s your answer. If it’s there, double-check the number.

One small typo will block the whole thing. Some dashboards show logs or last-used settings; review those if they’re there. Make no changes just yet.

Step 2: Check SIP Trunk Configurations

Go to the SIP trunk section. Check whether your trunk is registered and in action. The red status or message of being unreachable normally translates to calls not being accepted.

There are also dial patterns where applicable; they provide the allowed numbers. Your forwarding number must be the same pattern; otherwise, it will not work. This could take the assistance of your VoIP.

Step 3: Restart Your SIP Device or Client

Unplug your SIP phone or close the soft client completely. Wait a moment. Then start it up again and watch for the registration message.

Once it’s registered, place a test call.

This kind os restart often clears minor conflicts that block forwarding.

Step 4: Update Any SIP Client Software

If you’re using a desktop or mobile SIP app, check its version. Outdated apps can cause routing issues more often than you’d expect.

Visit the App Store or the provider’s site and get the latest one. Install it, then restart the app fully. Once that’s done, test again to see if the issues improve.

Step 5: Contact Your VoIP Service Provider

Still stuck?

It is time to seek support. Inform them of the number you want to transfer the call to and when the problem began. They have the capability to inspect server logs and ensure that nothing went wrong on the way.

At times, it is just a simple shift on their part that removes the block.

When looking for a new VoIP provider with more effective call routing features, it is recommended to contact sales directly.

II. For Hosted PBX / Cloud PBX

Step 1: Access Admin Portal

Start by logging into your admin panel. Go to the user account where forwarding is applied. Find the call routing settings or rules section. Make sure the rule is listed and turned on. Forwarding often fails simply because someone unchecked a box during setup.

Step 2: Check Time-Based Rules

Search for schedules that are live. Forwarding can be set to be active at some specific times. When your time zone is not correct, that may put the whole thing off. Make changes to timings and save settings again. Dial the number now to test whether it is working.

Step 3: Inspect User Profiles

Next, go into the profile of the extension that’s forwarding calls. Check if the status is active and the number hasn’t been removed. Sometimes, when users are deleted or re-added, their rules break. Fixing this might be as easy as retyping the forwarding number.

Step 4: Reboot Connected Devices

If the system uses physical phones or desk units, restart them. Pull the power for 15 seconds. Plug them back in and wait until they fully boot. This syncs them with the PBX server again, refreshing all call handling.

Step 5: Test with Dummy Calls

Use a second number to call the extension. Try calling at different times, inside and outside of any schedule. If it forwards sometimes but not always, the rule may be conditional. This helps narrow down the actual issue.

Most Hosted PBX issues clear up once the settings, schedules, and devices are properly synced.

Now let’s shift focus to softphones, in which app-level settings and device behavior play a bigger role.

III. For Softphones

Softphones are great when used right, but they depend on apps and the internet working together. One small issue in any of those layers can throw off call forwarding.

Let us walk you through the checks that often bring things back to normal.

Step 1: Check App-Level Call Forwarding Settings

Start by opening the softphone app you’re using. Then, find the call settings or user profile tab. Look for “Call Forwarding” or “Call Handling”. Make sure the rule is turned on and points to the right number.

Even a missing country code can cause it to fail silently. If there’s a conditional rule like “Forward when busy,” test that condition directly. Sometimes the setting appears correct, but doesn’t activate until triggered.

Step 2: Ensure the Device Is Connected to the Internet

Forwarding won’t work if the app can’t reach the server. Try opening a browser or another app that uses the internet. If the pages are slow or don’t load, that’s likely the problem.

Switch Wi-Fi networks or try using mobile data for a moment. Once you have a stable connection, open the softphone again and retest.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall the App

Earlier versions of the application might not synchronise the settings correctly. Make sure to see the update in the App Store. When it is up to date yet still not working, delete it and reinstall it.

Once you have reinstalled, go back in and input your login details again, and go to the call forwarding section once more. This usually solves the stuck settings that cannot be fixed through updates.

Step 4: Test on Another Device

Make the soft phone available on some other device, be it another phone or laptop. Enter with the same login and password and see whether forwarding is performed there. In that case, it is likely that the problem is local to your first device.

It may be a background setting or an access problem. When both of them fail, then the problem could be associated with your account or app version.

Softphone call problems usually come down to unreliability on the network or app inconsistency. After you eliminate those factors, it will be easier to proceed with a confident step.

Now, let’s look at unified communication platforms.

IV. For Unified Communications

Unified communication systems are more layered. They combine voice, messaging, meetings, and app syncing, which means more things can clash.

Forwarding on these platforms often depends on your status, availability, and connected devices.

Step 1: Go to Call Settings > Forwarding & Voicemail

To begin with, you have to open the platform’s main app, desktop, or mobile. Then, in your settings, search for call routing or call forwarding. This should be pointing to the correct number.

Check if there is an option for forwarding when unavailable or offline. Switch it off and switch it on to refresh the setting. And give a test call to make sure it is routing properly.

Step 2: Check Presence Status

Forwarding may not be applicable in cases where you are present or have a status (such as Do Not Disturb). All you need to do is change to “Available” and re-test. The forwarding is auto-held somewhere on some platforms when your status is busy or offline.

It is easy to correct this manually, to clear the block. When the call has been put through, wait a few seconds and call using a different number.

Step 3: Sync Mobile and Desktop Apps

Now, open both the mobile and desktop versions of the app. Sign in and allow notifications and sync features to load. If one device didn’t sync the settings, calls may behave inconsistently.

Make sure both apps show the same status and call rules. Then test by calling your extension to see how the routing behaves.

Step 4: Test Internally Before Going Live

Before you test with customers or external numbers, run an internal test. Use a coworker’s extension or device to call yours. This helps you catch issues faster and in a controlled setting.

If it works internally but fails externally, the issue may be related to your carrier settings. Testing internally gives a clear sign of what’s working and what’s not.

Unified platforms can feel overwhelming, but most issues come down to syncs, status, or routing rules. Once you get those aligned, forwarding usually starts behaving again.

Now, let’s move to the final part, Google Voice.

V. For Google Voice

Google Voice is popular for personal use and small teams. It’s cloud-based, simple, often free, but call forwarding issues still pop up. You can take a few easy steps to fix them.

Step 1: Visit Google Voice Settings

Log in to your Google Voice account from a browser. Then, go to “settings” and scroll to the “Linked Number” section. Make sure your forwarding number is listed there.

If it’s missing, calls won’t route anywhere. Add it again and verify ownership if asked to do so.

Step 2: Reverify Linked Numbers

Sometimes you may see a number appear linked but not verified. In this case, click on the number and see if there’s an option to reverify. If not, remove the number and add it back again.

Google will call or text a code to confirm the number belongs to you. Once that’s done, calls should start forwarding again.

Step 3: Disable and Re-add the Forwarding Number

If your calls aren’t still forwarding, remove the linked number entirely. Wait about a minute, then add it again.

This refreshes the routing link on Google’s side. It might feel repetitive, but it works when other fixes don’t.

Step 4: Check Spam and Call Filter Settings

Now, go back to settings and find the Spam section. If Google is making your incoming calls as spam, they won’t forward. Uncheck the auto-block option if it’s active.

You can also mark past calls as “Not Spam” to train the system. After that, try calling your Google Voice number again from a clean line. Some platforms automatically block calls flagged as spam or inappropriate content, which disrupts forwarding.

Google Voice is simple, but even small changes help things run again. Now that you’ve seen fixes across all major systems, let’s wrap things up with a few universal tips.

General Tips for Any Call Forwarding Issue

Sometimes it’s not about the system, it’s about small details. Here are a few broad checks that help no matter what type of forwarding you use:

• Verify the Forwarding Number: Always test the number you’re forwarding to. Check by calling it directly from another device. Check for missing digits or country codes if you’re forwarding to international numbers.

• Disable and Re-enable Forwarding: Disabling forwarding clears the slate. Turn it back after a moment. This helps resolve stuck routing logic behind the scenes. Always recheck the settings on your device after reenabling.

• Check for Conflicting Features: Voicemail, call recording, or “Do Not Disturb” can interrupt forwarding. Try disabling them temporarily to see if the problem clears. Also, review any active call rules or automation features that may override forwarding.

• Inspect Conditional or Time-Based Rules: Some setups only forward during set hours or under certain conditions. Double-check schedules and availability settings. Misaligned time zones or holidays can silently block your forwarding rule. Make sure your rules match the time and status you expect.

• Restart Devices or Network Equipment: Restarting is a simple method that actually works. After reboot, most systems reconnect fresh and reload rules cleanly. Try forwarding again after everything has powered back up.

• Review Call Logs or Trace Reports: If your platform offers call logs, do take a look. Find the test call you made and see where it went. Look for error messages or failed attempts; they help pinpoint where things broke. Some VoIP providers post service updates or outage notices; it helps to subscribe to RSS feed and stay informed.

• Contact Your Service Provider: When all else fails, call your provider. They can run backend checks and confirm whether your rules are working. They may also catch system-level issues that aren’t visible to users. Support teams often have diagnostic tools that resolve issues quickly.

Conclusion

Call forwarding is simple on the surface, but when there are issues, it can be frustrating. Different systems have different rules, but the core troubleshooting process stays the same.

The more familiar you are with your platform’s behavior, the faster you’ll notice when something’s off.

So the next time there is a call forwarding issue, start small, stay patient, follow the relevant steps, and work through it without rushing. The fix is often one step away.

If you’re still having trouble, switching to a reliable VoIP service like Dialaxy may offer you more control and support.

Sign up today! 

FAQs

Why is my call forwarding not working?

It could be a wrong number, a network issue, or a conflicting setting. Check all rules and test the destination line. Some support forums let users mark topic threads related to call forwarding, which can help track similar issues over time.

What happens if the forwarded call isn’t answered?

It depends on your setup. It may go to voicemail, disconnect, or follow a fallback rule if configured.

How do I know if a call forwarding loop is happening?

If the same call keeps bouncing between numbers or voicemail, you may have a loop. Check each destination’s forwarding settings carefully.

Does call forwarding work if I lose internet connection?

Yes, only if the forwarding is handled at the carrier level. The VoIP-based systems often require the internet to function.

How can I temporarily disable call forwarding?

Use your platform’s disable code or toggle the setting off in the app or dashboard. It pauses forwarding without deleting the rule.

Can I forward calls to more than one number at the same time?

Yes, some systems allow simultaneous ringing while others may support sequential routing.

Can I set call forwarding for specific hours or days?

Yes, many platforms support time-based rules. Make sure your schedule is correct and time zone aligned.