Transferring your number to Google Voice is the best way to leverage all of the features available. It’s pretty easy to transfer from most providers, but I ran into a few bumps when transferring my AT&T prepaid GoPhone number. To make your transfer a little easier, here is what I learned.
- Realize that by transferring this number you will be forfeiting your remaining balance, so you may want to run it down first. Now that this disclaimer step is done, time to get to the actual steps!
- Get your account number. This is not on the website or on any documentation you have. You must call 611 from your cell phone, dial 0 at the menu and speak to a customer service representative. Your account number will be a 12 digit number in the form of ####-####-####.
- Create a Google Voice account and opt to transfer your cell phone number.
- During the flow when prompted for your cell phone information, provide the 12 digit account number in the field provided.
- Sit back and wait for the transfer to happen.
- If you’d like to use your handset as a forward target for Google Voice, you’ll need a new handset number. Once the transfer is complete, head on over to an AT&T store and ask for a new number for your cell phone. I’ve found the least confusing way is to show up with no SIM card and ask for a new one. They’re free with a new GoPhone plan.
And just like that you’re all set!
