This guide provides a step-by-step process to create a Google Voice account, giving you a free phone number for calls, text messages, and voicemail that can be used across smartphones and computers.
Before starting, you need an existing Google account to sign in and link to your new number. If you don’t have one, you’ll be prompted to create one first.
To set up a new Google Voice number, follow these instructions to claim your new phone number and configure the service to manage your calls and messages across all your devices. Go to the Google Voice website and sign in using your Google account credentials.
Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the setup process and accept the terms of service. You will be prompted to search for an available number by city or area code. Enter your desired location to see a list of available numbers.
Select a number from the list that you would like to claim. You can also choose to port an existing mobile number. Note that porting your number may involve a fee and will transfer control of that number to Google.
Next, you must link and verify an existing phone number. Enter your current phone number, and Google will send you a verification code via text or a phone call. Enter the verification code on the website to confirm your existing number and finalize the setup of your new Google Voice number.
Once verified, configure your voicemail by recording a custom greeting. You can also set up call forwarding rules to decide which of your linked devices should ring when you receive a call.
Enable SMS and MMS messaging to send and receive text messages directly through the Google Voice app or website. Configure additional features as needed, such as call screening to hear a caller’s name before you answer, or call blocking to stop unwanted calls.
For the best experience, download the Google Voice app on your smartphone. This allows you to make calls and send texts using your new Google Voice number from anywhere, keeping your personal number private.
Having a Google Voice number provides a unified point of contact that isn’t tied to a single device or carrier. It allows you to consolidate your work and personal calls, manage communications from a web browser or app, and maintain privacy by not giving out your private cell number.
This separation is ideal for business owners, freelancers, or anyone who wants a secondary line without paying for another phone plan. Furthermore, Google Voice includes powerful features for free that often cost extra with traditional carriers.
The service offers excellent spam call filtering, visual voicemail with transcriptions sent to your email or text, and affordable international calling rates. By setting up an account, you gain more control and flexibility over how, when, and where you communicate.
