Pressing * 82 on a phone enables the call forward feature, which forwards incoming calls to another specified number. This can be useful for redirecting calls when you are unable to answer your phone. The * 82 code is the most common way to activate call forwarding, but other codes may work depending on your phone service provider.
How does * 82 call forwarding work?
When you dial * 82 on your phone, you will hear a dial tone prompting you to enter the number you want your calls forwarded to. For example, if you enter * 82 555-1234, any calls made to your number will be forwarded to 555-1234.
This forwards all incoming calls, not just ones you are unable to answer. It will continue forwarding calls until you deactivate the feature by dialing * 83. Some key facts about * 82 call forwarding:
- It works for both landline and mobile phones
- You will not receive any indication on your phone that forwarding is active
- Both answered and unanswered incoming calls will be redirected
- Voicemail is unaffected – messages will be received as normal
- You may be charged by your provider for using call forwarding
When would you use * 82 call forwarding?
There are a few common situations when activating call forwarding with * 82 can be useful:
- Temporary redirection: When you will be away from your phone for a period of time but still need calls to be received, such as when traveling or on vacation.
- Ongoing flexibility: Businesses may find it helpful for forwarding calls from a landline to an employee’s mobile when out of the office.
- Peace of mind: Forwarding to another number gives you reassurance that important calls will be answered.
Call forwarding is helpful for those times when you want continuity and convenience in receiving your calls.
What numbers can you forward calls to?
You can forward your calls to a variety of number types with * 82:
- Landlines – Both residential and business numbers
- Mobile phones – Forwarding to your own cell or someone else’s
- VoIP lines – Numbers used for VoIP or virtual phone services
- Toll-free numbers – 800, 888, etc. Excellent for businesses.
Most providers will let you forward to domestic numbers only. International call forwarding may be limited. You also cannot forward calls to emergency service numbers like 911 or premium-rate numbers.
Are there any limitations to * 82 call forwarding?
While * 82 is very useful, there are a few limitations to be aware of:
- Your cell carrier may impose time limits – forwarding may expire after 30 days for example.
- Landlines may allow indefinite forwarding. Mobile restrictions are more common.
- You may hear a beep when answering forwarded calls – letting you know it was redirected.
- Some providers charge a fee for using call forwarding features.
- Technical glitches can on rare occasions disrupt forwarding.
Despite some minor potential drawbacks, * 82 remains one of the simplest and most reliable ways to forward calls from your number. Limitations are not usually significant.
Does call forwarding work if your phone is off?
Yes, * 82 call forwarding will redirect calls even when your phone is switched off. This is a key benefit of this feature.
Other call forwarding methods only work for unanswered calls on a phone that still has service. But * 82 forwarding immediately redirects all incoming calls, without even “ringing” your phone first.
This means all calls are sent to the destination number, regardless of your own phone being online and able to receive calls. As long as the number you forward to can answer, you will not miss any calls.
Can you tell if call forwarding is enabled?
Unfortunately there is no obvious indicator that * 82 call forwarding is currently enabled on your phone. Here are some ways to possibly identify if it is active:
- Try calling your number from another phone – it should forward immediately.
- Check your phone bill for a call forwarding service charge.
- Some providers send text alerts when forwarding is enabled.
- You can dial * 82 and check if it gives a fast busy signal – indicating it is already on.
- Use your phone provider’s online account portal to check.
Without a clear notification that forwarding is turned on, it is easy to forget. Make a note of when you activate it as a reminder to disable later if needed.
Does call forwarding work for voicemail?
With * 82 call forwarding enabled, who receives your voicemail messages depends on your carrier and phone type:
- Mobile network voicemail – Messages will continue being received here as normal.
- Landline network voicemail – Voicemail may be forwarded along with calls.
- Third party voicemail – Dependent on the specific service capabilities.
So generally, * 82 will not forward voicemail on a mobile network. But on a landline, it can potentially send voicemail to the forwarded number also. Check with your provider to confirm how it handles voicemail redirection.
Can you forward calls to multiple numbers?
Unfortunately, the * 82 code does not offer an option to forward to multiple numbers at the same time. Your calls will all go to a single destination number.
However, some alternative call forwarding methods do allow simultaneously ringing multiple phones. For example:
- Verizon offers * 772 for multi-number forwarding
- AT&T provides * 63 for “find me” ring to multiple devices
- Landlines may offer a “hunt group” ring feature
Check if your phone provider has an alternative to * 82 that supports multiple call forwarding destinations. But the basic * 82 code can only send calls to one number.
How do you stop * 82 call forwarding?
To turn off call forwarding enabled with * 82, simply dial * 83 on your phone. When you hear a dial tone, press # or simply hang up.
This deactivates and disconnects the call forwarding your previously set. Your calls will now ring to your phone as normal.
To be safe, you may also want to try calling your own number after disabling, to confirm it no longer forwards. As long as you get the expected rings to your phone, call forwarding has been successfully cancelled.
Can you forward calls with iPhone or Android?
Most modern smartphones provide additional options for call forwarding beyond just dialling codes:
- iPhone – Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. Toggle to enable.
- Android – Settings > More Settings > Call Forwarding. Input number.
The mobile network call forwarding will override any * 82 forwarding you directly set. However, it is best to turn off * 82 as well, to avoid any conflict.
For occasional use the dialling codes work fine, but for regular long-term call forwarding, use your smartphone menu options.
Does call forwarding use phone minutes?
When using * 82 call forwarding, your cell phone minutes or landline usage may be consumed depending on:
- If you have unlimited minutes, there is typically no charge.
- With limited minutes, calls will subtract from your allowance.
- The forwarded number’s own minutes are not used.
So if you forward from a mobile with limited minutes, those calls will still count against your plan. With unlimited calls you can forward extensively without incurring any usage costs.
Can you get in trouble for call forwarding pranks?
Forwarding someone’s calls without their consent is generally viewed as a form of harassment and misuse of services. Teenagers sometimes do this as a prank.
Most providers prohibit forwarding to numbers that are unauthorised. And they usually make parents liable for a child’s activities on family plans.
Potential penalties for call forwarding harassment include:
- Service suspension or termination
- Charges for usage fees during unauthorized forwarding
- Legal prosecution in serious cases
It is wise to avoid call forwarding pranks, as carriers often take a stern view due to potential loss of business if customers change providers.
Key takeaways
In summary, key points to remember about using * 82 for call forwarding include:
- Dial * 82 to enable forwarding to any number.
- Useful when unable to answer calls personally.
- Works even when your phone is powered off.
- Doesn’t usually forward voicemail from cell networks.
- Dial * 83 to disable call forwarding.
- Smartphones also provide call forwarding options.
- Don’t forward others’ calls without permission.
Understanding the ins and outs of * 82 call forwarding helps you use this useful feature effectively. Whether you need flexibility handling business calls or just peace of mind on vacation, * 82 makes it easy to stay connected.