Why can’t I get a Google Voice number?
What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a virtual phone number service from Google that offers call forwarding, voicemail transcription, SMS texting, and more. With Google Voice, users can get a unique phone number that rings multiple devices, screens calls with spam blocking, and unifies voicemail, texting, and calling under one account.
Some of the key features of Google Voice include:
- Obtaining a virtual phone number with a chosen area code
- Call and text forwarding to linked devices like cell phones and landlines
- Voicemail transcription and email notifications
- Spam call blocking and screening
- Text messaging from the Google Voice number
- Conference calling
- Online account management and call/text history
Google Voice integrates with the Google Voice mobile app and website to provide a unified calling and messaging experience across devices. It serves as a central hub for communications, giving users enhanced control over how they receive calls and texts.
Overall, Google Voice aims to streamline phone communications and add useful features not available through traditional phone services. It combines landline, cell phone, and internet functionality into one telephony system managed through a Google account.
Availability of Google Voice Numbers
Google Voice numbers are limited and region-restricted, which can make getting a specific number challenging. When you search for a new Google Voice number, you are only shown a small subset of available numbers in your selected area code. According to Google support, to see more available numbers you need to exit the selection screen and re-enter your search, which may reveal additional options
However, the overall pool of numbers is still restricted based on your location. As explained on the JustCall blog, Google Voice limits number availability based on the user’s service address. So those living in densely populated areas like New York City will have access to far fewer numbers than rural areas. Certain desirable area codes like 212 in Manhattan are extremely limited.
On Reddit, users confirm that Google Voice number availability depends on location. Some report having trouble getting any available numbers for their region. The workaround can be porting in a number from a cheap prepaid cell phone plan, but this costs extra money.
So in summary, the limited pool of Google Voice numbers coupled with region restrictions makes getting a specific number very difficult. The only options are to keep trying different area codes, get creative with prefixes, or port in a number already owned.
Eligibility Requirements
To get a Google Voice number, there are certain eligibility requirements you must meet. First, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a current U.S. phone number (either mobile or landline) that you can verify ownership of. This existing number cannot already be associated with a Google Voice account.
In addition, Google Voice is only available to residents of the United States. So to get a Google Voice number, you’ll need a U.S. residential or business address that you can verify. There are also restrictions on forwarding calls to certain types of phone numbers, like VoIP lines.
Furthermore, Google imposes limits on the number of Google Voice numbers you can obtain per account. Each eligible user can have only one Google Voice number. And you can’t port a phone number you don’t own or control, such as your work phone number. See Google’s porting requirements for more details.
Meeting these eligibility criteria is key to getting a working Google Voice number assigned to your account. Not fulfilling them is a common reason why some people have trouble obtaining a Google Voice number.
Number Porting Issues
One of the most common reasons users cannot get a Google Voice number is problems porting an existing mobile number to Google Voice. Certain carriers and number types may not be eligible for porting to Google Voice.
For example, Google Voice does not support porting numbers from prepaid or VOIP services like Tracfone, Cricket, or Skype (source). Mobile numbers on AT&T and Verizon networks tend to port successfully, while numbers from smaller carriers encounter problems.
Users may see messages like “This number appears to be from an area we don’t currently support for porting” when trying to port, even if their carrier appears to be supported (source). This is likely due to recent carrier changes that Google has not updated.
Porting failures can also occur due to address or account number mismatches between your carrier and Google Voice records. Double checking details and restarting the port may resolve some issues (source). However, porting is not guaranteed to succeed even when following all troubleshooting steps.
Compatibility Factors
Google Voice has certain compatibility requirements when it comes to devices, carriers, and countries. On mobile, Google Voice is compatible with iOS and Android devices. According to Google Support, Google Voice is compatible with the current release and 2 previous major releases of iOS and Android operating systems (source).
When it comes to carriers, Google Voice works on most major US carriers including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint. However, Google Voice may not be compatible with some discount carriers like Boost Mobile or MVNOs (source).
In terms of countries, Google Voice is only available in the United States. Those living outside the US cannot sign up for or use Google Voice. This geographic restriction is due to licensing agreements and regulations (source).
Overall, device and carrier compatibility depends on your location. Within the US, Google Voice works on most modern iOS and Android smartphones. But those outside the US or using discount carriers may face restrictions.
Account Limitations
The standard Google Voice service allows only one Google Voice number per Google account. This restriction is in place to prevent abuse and spam activities. According to Google’s support page, “As a general rule, your Google Voice account can have only one number associated with it.” [1]
If you already have a Google Voice number and want to get a second one, you will have to open a separate Google account. Some users have tried workarounds like porting their existing GV number to a landline or cell phone carrier, then signing up for a new GV number, but Google may flag this activity if done repeatedly.
Some users have reported being able to obtain a second Google Voice number by contacting Google support and providing a valid justification, such as for business purposes. However, this exception is not guaranteed. The one number per account policy is strictly enforced for consumer Google Voice accounts.
Number Blocking and Fraud Prevention
Google Voice has mechanisms in place to prevent abuse and fraud. If you previously had a Google Voice number that was blocked, it was likely due to violation of Google’s terms of service. Common reasons for number blocking include:
- Sending spam or unsolicited commercial messages
- Automated or unattended calling/messaging
- Call flooding or denial of service attacks
- Spoofing caller ID information
- Using Google Voice for illegal or fraudulent purposes
Google employs automated protections to detect suspicious activity indicative of abuse or fraud. If your previous number was blocked, it means these systems flagged your account. While frustrating, this is necessary to protect all Google Voice users from unwanted spam and abuse.
If your Google Voice number is currently blocked, you will need to appeal the decision with Google directly. Provide as much context as possible to explain your situation. However, repeated or egregious violations can result in permanent blocking.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you are having trouble getting a Google Voice number, here are some tips that may help:
Check your eligibility – Google Voice is only available in certain countries and regions. Make sure your Google account country matches an eligible location like the United States. You can check eligibility at https://support.google.com/voice/answer/10063441?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid
Try porting your existing number – If you want to keep your current phone number, you may be able to port it over to Google Voice. Follow the porting steps carefully to avoid issues. See https://callhippo.com/blog/general/google-voice-not-working for more details.
Clear app data/cache – Sometimes app issues can prevent accessing Google Voice. Try force quitting the app, clearing app data and cache, uninstalling and reinstalling the app to refresh it. This may resolve connection problems.
Check account settings – Make sure your Google account and Voice settings are properly configured. Go to voice.google.com and check that your forwarding numbers, linked services, etc. are set up correctly.
Contact support – If you still can’t get a Google Voice number after trying these tips, reach out to Google Voice customer support for additional troubleshooting help.
Consider Alternatives
If you are unable to get a Google Voice number, there are some great alternative VoIP services to consider such as:
Skype – Skype offers free calling within the Skype network and low cost international calling plans. You can get a Skype number to receive incoming calls. Skype has apps for desktop and mobile devices.
WhatsApp – WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps globally. It offers free messaging and voice/video calls worldwide. You can get a virtual phone number through WhatsApp. It is available on iOS, Android, and desktop.
RingCentral – RingCentral provides a robust business VoIP phone system with features like auto-attendant, voicemail, conferencing, SMS, and team messaging. You can port your existing number or get a new toll-free or local number.
Nextiva – Nextiva is a VoIP provider focused on small businesses. It offers unlimited domestic calling, team chat, video conferencing, SMS capabilities, and advanced call routing features. You can bring your phone number to Nextiva or get a new one.
There are many excellent alternatives to Google Voice that may better suit your needs. Evaluating factors like cost, features, flexibility, and ease of use can help determine the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about getting a Google Voice number:
Why can’t I get a new Google Voice number?
The main reasons you may not be able to get a new Google Voice number include:
- Limited availability – Google Voice numbers are not available in all countries and regions (see Google Voice Help for details).
- Account limits – Each Google account is limited to one Google Voice number (Google Voice Help).
- Eligibility – Google Voice may not be available if you are under 18 or have a free Gmail account (Google Voice Help).
- Fraud prevention – Google may block assigning new numbers due to suspicious activity or violations of the Google Voice service terms (Google Voice Help).
Can I port my existing number to Google Voice?
You may be able to port (transfer) your existing mobile or landline number to Google Voice depending on a few factors:
- Your carrier and location – Number porting availability varies by carrier and region (Google Voice).
- Account standing – Google Voice number porting requires a Google account in good standing.
- Ownership verification – You must verify ownership of the number you want to port over.
See Google Voice’s porting guide for full details on requirements and instructions for porting your number.