Need a second phone number without paying extra? Whether it’s for work, online shopping, or keeping your personal number private, Google offers a way to get a free phone number—and it’s surprisingly simple!
This guide will walk you through how to get a free phone number from Google, how it works, what it can do, and some things to watch out for. Let’s dive in!
What Is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a free service that gives you a phone number to make calls, send texts, and check voicemail—all online.
It’s like having a second line that works on your phone, tablet, or computer. Your Google Voice number isn’t tied to a SIM card. It works over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Key Features of Google Voice:
- Free phone number (U.S. only)
- Works on Android, iPhone, and web
- Voicemail transcription
- Call forwarding to your real number
- Custom voicemail greetings
- Spam filtering
If you want a private line for Craigslist deals, a business line, or a travel number, Google Voice is a great option.
Why You Might Want a Free Google Phone Number
Not sure if it’s worth it? Here are some common reasons people use Google Voice:
- Protect privacy when signing up on websites or apps
- Separate business and personal calls
- Use as a backup number for two-step verification
- Stay connected while traveling abroad
- Receive calls on multiple devices at once
And the best part? It’s completely free to get started—no credit card or contract needed.
How to Get a Free Phone Number from Google (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sign in to Your Google Account
To use Google Voice, you’ll need a Gmail account. If you already have one, just sign in at voice.google.com.
If not, create a free Google account first.
Step 2: Pick a Phone Number
Once you’re signed in:
- Go to voice.google.com
- Click “Get a number”
- Enter your area code or city
- Choose a number from the list
You can search for numbers by zip code or city to find a local one.
Step 3: Link Your Existing Number
Google will ask you to link your real phone number for verification and forwarding. This lets you receive calls and texts on your main phone.
- Enter your number and tap Send Code
- Enter the code you receive via text
- Click Verify
Once verified, you’re all set!
✅ You now have a free phone number from Google that works just like a regular line.
How Google Voice Works
After setup, you can:
- Make and receive calls through the Google Voice app
- Send and receive texts using your new number
- Access voicemail and text history online
- Block unwanted callers or spam
Works Across Devices
You can use your Google number on:
- iPhone or Android (with the app)
- Web browser (via Google Chrome or Safari)
- Even on a tablet or computer
Everything syncs together, so you can switch between devices easily.
Can You Use Google Voice Without a Phone Plan?
Yes! If you’re using a Wi-Fi-only device, Google Voice still works.
All you need is:
- A Gmail account
- Internet connection (Wi-Fi or data)
- Google Voice app
It’s a handy way to make calls without needing cellular service.
📱 This makes it perfect for old phones, kids’ devices, or international use.
What You Can Do with a Google Voice Number
✅ Make Free Calls (U.S. & Canada)
You can call any U.S. or Canadian number for free from your Google number. International calls cost a small fee.
✅ Send and Receive Texts
Google Voice lets you send and receive texts like a normal number. These show up in the app or browser.
✅ Voicemail with Transcription
Missed a call? You’ll get the voicemail right in your inbox—with speech-to-text transcription included.
✅ Block Calls and Filter Spam
Google uses its spam filters (just like Gmail) to block robocalls and telemarketers. You can also manually block numbers.
Things to Know Before You Start
⚠️ Only for U.S. Users
Google Voice is only available in the United States for new numbers. You must have a U.S.-based Google account and phone number to register.
⚠️ Number Can Be Reclaimed
If you don’t use your number for 30+ days, Google may reclaim it. Make sure to send a quick text or make a call every few weeks.
⚠️ No Emergency Calls
Google Voice does not support 911 or emergency calling. Always keep your main phone active for emergencies.
Google Voice vs. Other Free Phone Number Apps
Let’s compare Google Voice with a few other popular apps:
| Feature | Google Voice | TextNow | Burner | Hushed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free to Use | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ (paid) | ❌ (paid) |
| Works on Web | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Voicemail Transcription | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Spam Filter | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Keeps Number Forever (with activity) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Google Voice stands out for being truly free, with no ads, and backed by Google.
Can You Get More Than One Free Number?
Officially, one Google Voice number per Gmail account is allowed.
But you can work around this by:
- Creating a new Google account
- Using a different phone number for verification
Note: Google may limit accounts if abuse is detected. It’s best to stick to one number per real use case.
Common Use Cases
Here’s how people are using Google Voice every day:
- Freelancers: Set up a business number without extra cost
- Parents: Give kids a number to text or call without a phone plan
- Online Shoppers: Use it to sign up on websites safely
- Travelers: Call back home over Wi-Fi from abroad
- Job Seekers: Separate number for resumes and interviews
Tips for Managing Your Google Number
- Set up call forwarding to ring multiple phones at once
- Use custom voicemail greetings for work or friends
- Download the Google Voice app for mobile access
- Turn off call screening if it becomes annoying
- Enable notifications so you never miss a text or voicemail
FAQs: Get a Free Phone Number from Google
1. Is Google Voice really free?
Yes. Google Voice is completely free for calls, texts, and voicemail in the U.S. and Canada.
2. Can I choose my area code?
Yes, you can search by area code or city to choose a local number.
3. Does Google Voice work without Wi-Fi?
You’ll need either Wi-Fi or mobile data. Google Voice doesn’t work offline.
4. Can I use it for WhatsApp or Telegram?
Yes. You can use your Google number to sign up for apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal.
5. What happens if I don’t use the number?
If inactive for 30+ days, Google may release the number. Make a call or send a text to keep it.
Final Thoughts
Getting a free phone number from Google is one of the easiest ways to add a second line to your life—without paying a dime.
It’s ideal for privacy, business, travel, or backup use. The setup takes just a few minutes, and the features are surprisingly powerful.
So if you haven’t tried it yet, go to voice.google.com and claim your free number today!
