How do I make a call using a Google Voice number?

Google Voice is a flexible way to communicate that gives users a unique phone number to call, text, and check their voicemail. If you have a Google Voice number and want to make a call, these steps will help you.

What you need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• A Google account
• Access to the Google Voice app or website
• An internet connection

Set Up Your Google Voice Account

Make sure that your Google Voice account is set up before you call.

1. Sign in to Google Voice: You can get the Google Voice app from the App Store or Google Play, or you can go to. Use your Google account to log in.
2. Pick a number: Do what it says to pick a Google Voice number if you haven’t already. You can search for or choose a number based on your area code.

Making a Call Using a Google Voice Number

1. Using the Google Voice App

If you prefer using your smartphone, follow these steps:

1. Download the app: Make sure your device has the Google Voice app. You can get it from either Google Play or the Apple App Store.
2. Sign in: Sign in with your Google account after opening the app. You’ll need to let the app use your contacts and microphone.
3. Dial a number:
   • At the bottom of the screen, tap the phone icon.
   • Use the number pad to enter the number you want to call or choose a contact from your list.
   • To make the call, press the call button. 
4. During the call: the options on your screen let you mute, add another call, or get to the keypad.

2. Using a Google Voice number on a computer

If you prefer to use your computer, here’s how:

1. Visit Google Voice: Go to voice.google.com and sign in with your Google account.
2. Select the Calls Option:
   • On the left, click on the “Calls” icon.
   • The “Search” box lets you type in a number or choose a contact from your saved list. 
3. Initiate the call: Click the phone icon next to the number or contact.
4. Using Your Computer’s Microphone: Ensure your microphone and speakers work for clear communication. 

3. Making calls Using a Google Voice number from Gmail

Using Gmail, you can also make calls directly from your inbox.

1. Start up Gmail: Log in to your Gmail account.
2. Find the part about Google Voice: Look for “Google Voice” in the sidebar on the left.
3. Press the phone icon: When you click the phone icon, the calling screen will appear.
4. Call or Pick Out a Contact: Type in the number or pick a contact from your list.
5. Press Call: To connect, click the call button.

4. Managing Your Calls

While on a call using a Google Voice number, you can access various features:

1. Turn off or on mute: To turn off or on mute your line, tap the microphone icon.
2. Hold: If you need to, you can put callers on hold.
3. Add Another Caller: Use “Add Call” to add someone else to the call.

Using a Google Voice number with other phones

You can also call any phone with your Google Voice number.

1. Forwarding Calls: You can set up call forwarding in Google Voice. This lets people call your Google Voice number and reach you on your cell or home phone. 
2. Using the Dial-Out Feature:
   • Go to your Google Voice account and click on “Settings.”
   • If you want to, go to “Calls” and turn on “Call Screening.”
   • If someone calls your Google Voice number, answer it like any other call.
3. Calling Internationally: Make sure you have enough credits in your Google Voice account before you call someone in another country because you may have to pay. 

Tips for Using Google Voice

• Check Voicemail: You can get to your voicemails directly from the website or app.
• Texting Made Easy: By tapping the ‘Messages’ icon, you can using a Google Voice number to send and receive text messages, adding to the platform’s versatility.
• Sync Contacts: If you sync your contacts with Google, calling family and friends from the app may be more accessible.

Conclusion

It is easy and convenient to make calls with your using a Google Voice number. These steps will help you stay connected without problems, whether on a computer or a phone. You’ll have more freedom when you can handle all your calls from one number.