Yes, Straight Talk Wireless does support call forwarding for the majority of its customers and on most modern handsets. While Straight Talk’s official documentation notes that the feature is only available in “select areas and on select handsets,” the most common codes used across the U.S. mobile network infrastructure that Straight Talk uses (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) are generally supported.
The easiest way to set up and manage call forwarding is by dialing specific Man-Machine Interface (MMI) codes directly from your phone’s dial pad. This article will provide the direct codes for both immediate and conditional forwarding on Straight Talk and explain the simple steps to activate this useful feature.
How to Set Up Call Forwarding on Straight Talk
Call forwarding allows you to redirect all incoming calls to another phone number, ensuring you never miss a call while traveling or using a different device.
Method 1: Forward All Calls (Unconditional Forwarding)
This type of forwarding sends all incoming calls directly to the number you specify, and your Straight Talk phone will not ring.
| Action | Dial Code Format | Example |
| Enable | *72 + [10-Digit Forwarding Number] | Dial *72 5551234567 |
| Disable | *73 | Dial *73 |
Activation Steps (Unconditional Forwarding):
- Open the Phone app or Dial Pad on your Straight Talk device.
- Dial the code *72, followed immediately by the 10-digit phone number you wish to forward calls to.
- (Example: If forwarding to (555) 123-4567, dial *725551234567).
- Press the Call/Send
- Wait for a confirmation tone or message on your screen (often “Activation Succeeded”). All future calls will now be forwarded.
Deactivation Steps:
- Open the Phone app or Dial Pad.
- Dial the deactivation code: *73.
- Press the Call/Send
- Wait for the confirmation that forwarding has been disabled.
Method 2: Conditional Call Forwarding
Conditional forwarding allows you to only send calls to another number when you are unavailable. This is often used to send missed calls to a specific voicemail system or an answering service.
| Condition | Enable Code Format | Disable Code |
| If No Answer | *61 + [Number] + # | #61# |
| If Busy | *67 + [Number] + # | #67# |
| If Unreachable | *62 + [Number] + # | #62# |
Activation Steps (Conditional Forwarding):
- Open the Phone app or Dial Pad.
- Dial the appropriate code from the table above, ensuring you include the 10-digit forwarding number and the # symbol at the end.
- (Example: To forward calls after 20 seconds to 555-123-4567, dial *615551234567#).
- Press the Call/Send button and wait for the confirmation.
Important Considerations for Straight Talk Users
Since Straight Talk is a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) that runs on the towers of major carriers, its specific service availability can sometimes vary.
Minutes and Charges
Call forwarding uses your plan minutes. When a call is forwarded, both the incoming call to your Straight Talk number and the outgoing forwarded call to the destination number use your available minutes. If you are on an unlimited plan, this is usually not an issue, but if you have limited minutes, be aware that forwarded calls consume two minutes for one contact.
International Forwarding
Straight Talk typically does NOT allow calls to be forwarded to international phone numbers. The forwarding function is generally restricted to domestic (U.S.) numbers. Attempting to forward a call outside the U.S. may result in an error message or incur extremely high international charges.
Device Settings Override
On some modern smartphones (both Android and iOS), you may be able to manage call forwarding directly through the phone’s Call Settings menu without dialing the codes.
- Check Your Phone Settings: Navigate to Settings Phone (iOS) / Calling Settings (Android) Call Forwarding.
- Error Message: If the dial pad codes above give you an error, check if your phone’s operating system settings allow you to activate it manually. If neither works, the feature is likely unavailable for your specific phone/SIM combination in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to use call forwarding on Straight Talk?
No, Straight Talk does not charge a separate fee for the Call Forwarding service itself. However, as noted above, all minutes used for forwarded calls are drawn from your monthly plan allowance.
Can I forward text messages (SMS) on Straight Talk?
No. Standard wireless call forwarding only works for voice calls. There is no native feature or code on Straight Talk that allows you to automatically forward text messages (SMS or MMS) to another phone number. You would need to rely on third-party apps or services that utilize your phone’s data connection.
Why is Straight Talk inconsistent about call forwarding availability?
Straight Talk utilizes the networks of major U.S. carriers. Because their service sometimes relies on the feature configuration of the underlying network provider and the specific SIM card (or “network access”) your phone is using, the availability can vary. If the codes work, you have the feature enabled. If they fail, it is likely a network restriction.
Can I forward my Straight Talk calls to my voicemail?
Your calls are already conditionally forwarded to your Straight Talk voicemail when you don’t answer. You do not need to use the forwarding codes for this default service. The codes are typically used to forward calls to a different phone number or a third-party voicemail service.
