How to Set Up Google Voice

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Written by Nicole Levine, MFA

Last Updated: September 16, 2023

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This wikiHow teaches you how to set up a new Google Voice account on a computer, Android, iPhone, or iPad.

Things You Should Know

You can set up Google Voice on the web or in the app.
You'll need to pair your current number to receive a Google Voice number.
When verifying your Google Voice number, you will be sent a verification code.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using a Computer

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1
Go to the Google Voice website. This opens the Google Voice sign-up site.
- You’ll need a Google account and a United States-based phone number to sign up for Google Voice.^{[1]
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It’s at the top-right corner of the page. If you’re not already signed in to your Google account, follow the on-screen instructions to do so now.

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Clicking Continue confirms that you agree to Google's terms.
This displays available phone numbers in that location.
Once you’ve claimed you’re number, you’ll see a confirmation that says “You’ve selected (phone number.”
A pop-up will appear, requesting your US-based phone number.
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Enter your phone number and click SEND CODE. A verification code will be sent to you via text message.
- If you prefer to verify your phone number via a telephone call, click verify by phone, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
A confirmation message will appear, letting you know that incoming phone calls to your Google Voice number will be routed to your existing phone number.
This completes the sign-up process, and redirects you to a confirmation page with your new phone number on it.
Now that your account is set up, see How to Use Google Voice to get started with account features, such as setting up voicemail and making phone calls.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using an iPhone or iPad

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1
Download Google Voice from the App Store. If you haven’t already installed the Google Voice app, here’s how to get it now:^{[2]
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- Open the App Store
  .
- Tap Search at the bottom-right corner.
- Tap the gray search bar at the top of the screen.
- Type google voice and tap the Search key.
- Tap GET next to “Google Voice.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
If you’re still in the App Store, tap OPEN next to “Google Voice.” Otherwise, tap the white icon containing a blue-green chat bubble with a white phone receiver inside. You should find it on one of your home screens.
It’s at the bottom of the screen.
4
Sign in to your Google account. If you’re not already signed in with your Google account, follow the on-screen instructions to sign in now.
- If you’re already signed into your iPhone with a Google account (or more than one), slide the switch next to the account name to the On position to continue.
This confirms that you understand the terms of using Google Voice.
It’s at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
This displays available phone numbers in that location.
A confirmation message will appear.
Now that you’ve selected a phone number, you’ll have to verify your existing number.
This displays the “Enter a number to link” screen.
This sends a confirmation code to the phone number you entered.
A confirmation message will appear.
Your new Google Voice phone number is now set up.
Once your account is ready, you’ll be able to use the Google Voice app to place free phone calls to any phone number in the US.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using an Android

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1
Install Google Voice from the Play Store. If you haven’t already installed the Google Voice app, here’s how to get it now:
- Open the Play Store
  .
- Type google voice into the search bar and press ↵ Enter.
- Tap INSTALL next to “Google Voice.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
If you’re still in the Play Store Store, tap OPEN. Otherwise, tap the blue-green chat bubble with a white phone receiver inside in the app drawer. It may also be on the home screen.
If you have multiple accounts, select the one you want to use with Google Voice.^{[3]
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This confirms that you understand the terms of using Google Voice.
It’s at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
This displays available phone numbers in that location.
Instructions for verifying your new phone number will appear.
You must already have a US-based phone number to set up Google Voice. Enter that phone number now, and follow the on-screen instructions to verify your account.
Once your account is ready, you’ll be able to use the Google Voice app to place free phone calls to any phone number in the US.

Community Q&A

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Question

Can I receive messages on both my Verizon iPhone and on Google Voice?

Community Answer

Yes.

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Question

How can I delete my google voice?

Community Answer

Sign in to your Google Voice account. Click the gear icon and select Settings. Next to your Google Voice number, click Delete. Follow the steps to delete your Google number.

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Question

Do I have to wait for Google Voice to finish porting my number to add a forwarding phone?

Community Answer

Yes.

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