# Can I keep my business number with an AI receptionist?

Yes. You forward calls from your existing number, so your customers keep calling the number they know. Here’s how forwarding works and what to check.

Updated 8 November 2026 · Officelink AI, Perth

## How it works

Your receptionist has its own phone number behind the scenes. You set your existing number to forward calls to it: always, or only when you don’t answer. Your customers dial the same number as always and never see the forwarding number.

## The forwarding options

- Forward all calls: every call goes to the receptionist. Good for after hours or when you’re away.
- Forward when busy or not answered: your phone rings first, and the receptionist picks up if you don’t answer after a set number of rings or seconds.
- Forward when unreachable: for when your mobile is off or out of range.

You can switch forwarding on or off at any time, so you stay in control of which calls it answers.

## Where to set it up

- Mobile numbers: in your phone’s call settings or your mobile provider’s app.
- Landlines and 13 or 1300 numbers: through your phone provider’s account, app or support line.
- Phone systems (for example Microsoft Teams or 3CX): your phone system administrator or IT provider sets a forwarding rule.

When you choose a plan, we give you the exact steps for your provider and test the forwarding with you.

## Things to know

- Your provider may charge for forwarded calls. Check your phone plan.
- Some phone systems pass your own number instead of the caller’s. We test caller ID during setup.
- Follow-up texts to callers come from the receptionist’s number, not your business number.
- Try it first: the free trial uses a separate test number, so your real line isn’t touched until you’re ready.

## Quick answers

**Do I need a new phone number?**
No. You can keep your existing number and forward calls. A new Australian number is also available if you’d prefer one.

**Can I stop forwarding at any time?**
Yes. Switch forwarding off in your phone or provider settings and calls ring through to you as normal.

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Canonical page: https://officelinkai.com.au/guides/keep-your-number-call-forwarding/