What to Do If You’re Not Receiving Google Voice Calls

Google Voice is a powerful and convenient communication tool that allows you to make and receive calls, send texts, and access voicemail—all using a single number across multiple devices. However, like any technology, it can sometimes malfunction. One of the most frustrating issues users encounter is not receiving incoming calls through Google Voice.

Whether you’re missing important business calls or losing touch with friends and family, this guide will walk you through the most common causes of this problem and provide clear, step-by-step solutions to help you restore full functionality to your Google Voice number.

Why You Might Not Be Receiving Google Voice Calls

There are several reasons you may not be getting calls, including:

• Call forwarding issues with linked numbers

• Do Not Disturb mode being enabled

• Google account sync problems

• App or device-specific bugs

• Network or connectivity issues

• Spam or blocked call filters

Understanding the possible causes will make it easier to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Step 1: Check Google Voice Settings

A. Confirm Your Number is Active

Go to voice.google.com and sign in with your Google account. Your Google Voice number should appear at the top left. If you see a message like “You don’t have a Google Voice number,” it means your number was reclaimed or removed, and you’ll need to obtain a new one.

B. Review Linked Numbers

Google Voice uses linked numbers to forward incoming calls. If these aren’t set up properly, calls may not ring your phone.

1. Visit voice.google.com.

2. Click the gear icon to open Settings.

3. Under Linked numbers, make sure your current mobile or landline number is listed and verified.

4. If not, click New linked number, add your number, and complete the verification process.

Tip: Remove outdated or unused linked numbers to avoid conflicts.

Step 2: Test the Google Voice Web App

Try receiving a call using the web version of Google Voice.

• Visit voice.google.com on a computer.

• From another phone, call your Google Voice number.

• If the call rings on the web app but not your phone, the issue likely lies in the mobile app or device setup.

This simple test helps determine if the issue is device-specific or account-wide.

Step 3: Review Do Not Disturb and Call Handling Settings

Google Voice has a Do Not Disturb (DND) feature that will silence all calls if enabled.

1. In the web app, go to Settings > Do Not Disturb.

2. Make sure it is turned off.

3. Also, review Call Handling options to ensure forwarding is set up correctly.

Some users accidentally enable DND while configuring notifications or during quiet hours. Disabling it can immediately restore call functionality.

Step 4: Check the Google Voice Mobile App

If you use the Google Voice app on Android or iOS:

A. Update the App

An outdated app can cause missed calls or sync problems.

• Go to the Play Store or App Store.

• Search for Google Voice.

• Tap Update if available.

B. Verify App Permissions

Google Voice requires several permissions to work correctly:

• On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Google Voice > Permissions. Ensure Microphone, Phone, and Contacts are allowed.

• On iOS: Go to Settings > Google Voice and ensure necessary permissions are enabled.

C. Check Notification and Call Settings

• Open the app and go to Settings (via the three-line menu).

• Ensure Incoming calls is toggled on.

• Under Notifications, enable sound and vibration options to alert you to calls.

Step 5: Disable Battery Optimization (Android Only)

On Android, battery optimization settings can prevent apps from running in the background—causing missed calls and messages.

To disable optimization for Google Voice:

1. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization.

2. Find Google Voice in the list.

3. Set it to Don’t optimize.

This ensures the app can run in the background and receive incoming calls in real time.

Step 6: Reboot and Reinstall

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.

• Restart your phone.

• Uninstall and reinstall the Google Voice app.

• Sign back in with your Google account.

This can resolve glitches that may be causing the app to fail in the background or lose connection with Google servers.

Step 7: Inspect Spam and Blocked Numbers

Google Voice automatically filters spam calls using its AI-powered system.

To review and adjust spam settings:

1. Go to Settings > Calls.

2. Disable Filter spam temporarily.

3. Review the Spam folder in the app or web to ensure legitimate callers aren’t being filtered.

Also, check if specific numbers are blocked:

• Go to Settings > Blocked numbers.

• Unblock any mistakenly blocked contacts.

Step 8: Ensure You’re Signed in to the Correct Account

If you use multiple Google accounts on your phone, it’s easy to accidentally switch between them.

• Open the Google Voice app.

• Tap your profile picture.

• Ensure you’re signed in to the correct account with your Voice number.

• Sign out of unrelated accounts if necessary.

This ensures that calls are being directed to the right account instance.

Step 9: Check Network and Wi-Fi Settings

Google Voice requires an internet connection to receive calls via VoIP.

• Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

• Disable VPNs or firewalls that may be interfering with call routing.

• If you’re in a public or restricted network (like in schools or offices), check if VoIP ports are blocked.

For best performance, ensure your device is on a stable, unrestricted internet connection.

Step 10: Contact Google Support

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still aren’t receiving calls:

• Visit the Google Voice Help Center.

• Scroll to the bottom and click Contact Us.

• Depending on availability, you may be able to reach a support agent via chat or email.

Be ready to provide:

• Your Google Voice number.

• The devices you use.

• A description of the issue and steps already taken.

Preventing the Issue in the Future

To avoid missing calls again:

• Use your Google Voice number at least once every 90 days to avoid deactivation.

• Keep the app and system software updated.

• Regularly review your account’s Linked Numbers and Permissions.

• Use the Google Voice web app for backup call access if the mobile app fails.

Final Thoughts

Missing incoming calls on Google Voice can be disruptive, but most issues are caused by minor misconfigurations, outdated apps, or device settings. By methodically going through your app permissions, call forwarding, DND settings, and network connection, you can quickly identify and resolve the problem.

Keeping your app updated, reviewing your settings regularly, and understanding how Google Voice routes calls will help ensure you stay connected—whether it’s for business, personal use, or both.

Also Read – What Happens When You Delete Your Apple ID Account?