Conditional call forwarding
Conditional call forwarding is a phone setting that automatically redirects a call to another number under certain conditions (no answer, line busy). It is used to send unanswered calls to an AI voice agent without changing your number.
Published · Updated
In brief
- Redirects a call to another number under a condition
- Common conditions: no answer, line busy, device unreachable
- You keep your published number
- Set up with your carrier or in your phone system
It is the simplest way to connect an AI voice agent: you keep your published number and the call rolls over to the agent when no one picks up, or at all times as you choose.
What are the forwarding conditions?
- No answer: the call is forwarded after a set number of rings
- Line busy: the call is forwarded when you are already on a call
- Unreachable: the call is forwarded if the device is off or out of network
How does it differ from unconditional forwarding?
Unconditional forwarding redirects every call at all times, and your phone no longer rings. Conditional forwarding rings at your end first, and redirects only the calls that go unanswered or find you busy. For a business that is often the right compromise: you answer when you can, and the agent takes over the rest of the time.
How do you turn it on for an AI voice agent?
You turn forwarding on with your carrier or in your phone system settings, pointing to the agent’s number, then place a test call. The guide Missed calls: what do they really cost a small business? shows why this setting matters, and the virtual AI receptionist entry explains what the agent does with the call. The Bell, Vidéotron and Rogers codes and fees are recorded in the guide Call forwarding: keep your number.
Frequently asked questions
Does conditional call forwarding cost extra?
It depends on your carrier and your phone plan. Check with your carrier before turning forwarding on.
Do my customers see another number?
No. They dial your published number, and the call is forwarded without the caller having to do anything.
Related
Hear your agent answer
We configure an agent for your business and you hear it take a live call.
Book a demo