If you’ve ever switched phone carriers, you already know the hassle of getting a new number, updating contacts, and losing old voicemails or texts. That’s where Google Voice comes in. It gives you one number that works everywhere — calls, texts, and voicemails — all managed online or through the app.
And the best part? You can bring your current phone number with you. This process is called porting. Porting your number to Google Voice means you’ll keep your old digits, but they’ll now live on Google’s network instead of your mobile carrier’s.
Let’s walk through exactly how to do it, what it costs, what to watch out for, and some answers to common questions.
Why Port Your Number to Google Voice?
Porting your number to Google Voice gives you more control and flexibility than most carriers. Once your number is hosted by Google, you can:
- Make and receive calls from your computer, phone, or tablet
- Access voicemails as text or email transcriptions
- Keep the same number even if you switch cell carriers
- Forward calls to multiple phones
- Use cheap or free international calling rates
Essentially, Google Voice turns your phone number into a portable digital identity — not something tied to a single SIM card or phone bill.
Step 1: Check if Your Number Is Eligible
Not every number can be ported to Google Voice. At the moment, only U.S. mobile numbers are eligible. Landlines and VoIP numbers (like from Comcast, Ooma, or Vonage) usually aren’t accepted directly.
To check if your number qualifies:
- Visit voice.google.com.
- Click on “Settings” → “Change / Port.”
- Enter your current number when prompted.
If Google says your number isn’t supported, you can use a workaround. First, port your number into a temporary mobile carrier — something inexpensive like T-Mobile prepaid — and then port it into Google Voice after a few days. It adds an extra step, but it works.
Step 2: Get Your Current Account Info Ready
Before you start the porting process, gather your current carrier details:
- Account number (usually found on your bill or online account)
- Port-out PIN or transfer PIN (you can request this from your carrier)
- Billing address and account name exactly as they appear on your carrier’s records
Make sure your phone line is still active. If your carrier cancels the line before the port completes, the transfer will fail. Keep your service running until the process is fully finished.
Step 3: Start the Port-In on Google Voice
Here’s how to start:
- Sign in to your Google account on a computer.
- Go to voice.google.com and click the gear icon for Settings.
- Under Accountbclick Change / Port next to your current Google Voice number (or “Choose a Google Voice number” if it’s your first time).
- Select “I want to use my mobile number.
- Follow the prompts to enter your carrier details.
You’ll need to pay a $20 one-time fee to Google. Payment is made instantly through Google Pay.
Step 4: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
Once you submit your request, Google will verify your details and begin the port.
For most mobile numbers, it takes less than 24 hours for the voice portion to transfer. Text messaging (SMS/MMS) may take an additional day or two to sync up. You’ll get email updates from Google during the process.
While the port is underway, don’t cancel your current service and avoid making major account changes. Once the port is done, your old carrier line will automatically deactivate.
Step 5: Set Up Google Voice
After your number moves to Google Voice, open the app and:
- Set your calling preference (Wi-Fi/data or carrier)
- Turn on call forwarding if you want calls to ring on other phones
- Record your voicemail greeting
- Test by making a call and sending a text
You can now use your same phone number through the Google Voice app on Android, iPhone, or even your browser at voice.google.com.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Some banking and security services don’t allow Google Voice numbers for verification codes, since they’re technically VoIP. Keep that in mind before moving your primary number.
- Service disconnection: Once porting is complete, your old carrier account may close automatically. If it’s bundled with other services (like a family plan or internet), check that first.
- Data backup: Porting won’t transfer your old texts or voicemails from your carrier. If there’s anything important, save or screenshot it before the switch.
FAQs About Porting a Phone Number to Google Voice
1. How much does it cost to port my number?
Porting into Google Voice costs $20 per number. It’s a one-time fee.
2. How long does it take?
For most mobile numbers, the process takes less than a day. Texting might take up to 72 hours to fully sync.
3. Can I port a landline number?
Not directly. You must first port it into a mobile carrier (like T-Mobile prepaid), then into Google Voice.
4. Will my old carrier cancel automatically?
Yes. Once the number moves, your old account for that line usually cancels itself. Just double-check your next bill.
5. Can I keep my current Google Voice number too?
Yes! During the process, Google will ask if you want to keep your old Voice number as a secondary one. If you do, it stays active as an extra line.
6. What if my port request fails?
That usually means your account info doesn’t match exactly or your number isn’t eligible. Double-check your carrier details and resubmit.
7. Can I use my Google Voice number internationally?
You can make calls or send texts from anywhere you have internet, but Google Voice only supports U.S. numbers. It can’t forward calls to non-U.S. phones.
8. What happens to my voicemails and texts?
Old carrier messages don’t transfer. Google Voice starts fresh, but from then on, all new voicemails and texts will be stored in your Voice account.
9. Can I port my Google Voice number out later?
Yes. You can unlock it in settings, get your transfer PIN, and move it to another carrier anytime.
10. Is Google Voice reliable for everyday use?
For most users, yes. It’s stable, works across devices, and integrates with Gmail and Google Meet. As long as you have a solid internet connection, it’s a strong alternative to a traditional carrier.
Final Thoughts
Porting your phone number to Google Voice is a smart move if you want more flexibility, lower costs, and the freedom to manage calls from anywhere. The process is straightforward, and once it’s done, you’ll never again be tied to a single carrier.
Think of it as future-proofing your phone number — simple, affordable, and totally under your control.
