business plan phone number

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How to Get a Business Phone Number: Guide and Pricing

In today's business landscape, having a dedicated phone number is crucial for establishing a professional presence and effectively communicating with customers. Whether you're a small business owner or a growing enterprise, a business phone number offers a range of benefits over traditional landline or personal smartphone numbers. In this guide, we will explore the different types of business phone numbers, their features, and how to choose the right provider for your specific needs.

Why You Need a Business Phone Number

Having a business phone number goes beyond just appearing professional. It offers numerous advantages, such as improved call management, additional communication channels, and advanced features. A virtual business phone number allows you to use it across multiple devices, ensuring portability and flexibility. Features like call forwarding ensure that you never miss important calls, as they can be redirected to another device or number. Moreover, many virtual phone number providers offer SMS texting and online faxing, allowing you to communicate with customers through various channels.

Types of Business Phone Numbers

• Toll-Free Phone Numbers: For Affordable Professionalism - Toll-free numbers, with prefixes like 800, 888, 877, and 866, provide a cost-effective option. These numbers are free for customers to call and give your business a nationwide presence. They can be set up through a phone service provider or forwarded to existing lines. With an average cost of $10.00 per number per month, toll-free numbers are an affordable way to make your business seem more expansive​.
• Vanity Phone Numbers: For Better Name Recognition - Vanity phone numbers allow you to customize a toll-free number with relevant words or phrases. For example, 1-800-FLOWERS is a well-known vanity number. These numbers enhance name recognition and number memory. While some vanity numbers are expensive and may be already taken, they can be a powerful branding tool for your business​.
• VoIP Phone Numbers: For Businesses Needing Advanced Features - VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone numbers are assigned when signing up for a business VoIP service. These numbers enable calls over the internet and offer scalability and advanced features not available with other types of numbers. Although they are relatively more expensive, ranging from $20.00 to $50.00 per user per month, VoIP phone numbers are ideal for businesses that require sophisticated call management and collaboration features​.
• Local Phone Numbers: Tied to Geographic Areas - Local phone numbers use area codes assigned to specific geographic regions. They are a popular choice for businesses that want to establish a local presence and connect with customers in their area. By choosing a local number with the same area code as your location, you can create a sense of familiarity and trust with your target audience​​.

Key Features of Business Phone Systems

When selecting a business phone service provider, it's important to consider the key features that will enhance your communication capabilities and meet your business needs. Here are some essential features to look for:

• Virtual Receptionist: A virtual receptionist system ensures a seamless and professional calling experience by directing callers to the right person or department. It offers customized messages, support for multiple languages, and different modes for business and non-business hours​​.
• Call Forwarding: Call forwarding allows you to redirect incoming calls to another number, ensuring you can be reached even when you're away from your primary device. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses with remote or hybrid work environments

The Benefits of Having a Business Phone Number

Obtaining a business phone number, whether it's an 800 number, a local number, or a vanity number, can greatly benefit your business. It enhances your professional image, establishes credibility, and helps you reach customers beyond your local area. By using an 800 number, you project a national presence and show that your company is capable of serving customers throughout the country. Additionally, calls coming from toll-free numbers are more likely to be answered, as they are recognized as belonging to businesses

How to Get a Business Phone Number

Now that we have explored the different types of business phone numbers and their benefits, let's dive into the process of getting a business phone number. There are a handful of reputable providers that offer business phone services, and we will highlight the steps to obtain a number through these popular providers: 

1. RingCentral: A Comprehensive Business Communications Solution

RingCentral offers a comprehensive business communications platform that integrates messaging, video, and phone services. They provide business phone numbers as part of their service plans. Here is how you can get a business phone number through RingCentral:

• Visit the RingCentral website and choose the plan that suits your business needs.
• During the sign-up process, you will be prompted to select the type of business number you want, such as toll-free, local, international, or vanity.
• Follow the instructions to set up your business phone number and configure the features according to your preferences.

2. GoDaddy Conversations: Easy Setup for Small Businesses

GoDaddy Conversations offers a user-friendly app that allows small businesses to easily obtain an 800 number and manage it directly from their smartphones. Here are the steps to get an 800 number through GoDaddy Conversations:

• Visit the GoDaddy Conversations website and browse the available numbers.
• Choose an 800 number or select another toll-free variant like 866, 844, 888, or 833.
• Download the Conversations app, which is compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
• Install the app and log in using your GoDaddy account.
• Once logged in, you can start using your 800 number to make and receive calls, as well as send and receive texts.

3. Grasshopper: A Simple and Affordable Option for Small Businesses

Grasshopper is a popular virtual phone system designed specifically for small businesses. It offers a range of features, including toll-free, local, and vanity numbers. Here's how to get a business phone number through Grasshopper:

• Visit the Grasshopper website and explore the available plans.
• Choose a plan that best fits your business needs, and sign up for an account.
• During the sign-up process, you can select your preferred type of business number (toll-free, local, or vanity).
• Once your account is set up, you can configure your phone system's features according to your requirements.

4. 8x8: A Versatile VoIP Solution for Growing Businesses

8x8 is a cloud-based VoIP provider that offers a range of communication solutions for businesses of all sizes. They provide business phone numbers as part of their service plans, along with advanced call management and collaboration features. Here's how to get a business phone number through 8x8:

• Visit the 8x8 website and choose a service plan that meets your business needs.
• During the sign-up process, you will be prompted to select the type of business number you want, such as toll-free, local, or international.

5. GoTo Connect: A Unified Communication Solution for Businesses of All Sizes

GoTo Connect, formerly known as Jive Communications, is a comprehensive unified communications solution that offers businesses a wide range of communication tools, including VoIP phone services, video conferencing, and team messaging. They provide business phone numbers as part of their service plans, along with a robust suite of advanced call management and collaboration features. Here's how to get a business phone number through GoTo Connect:

• Visit the GoTo Connect website and explore the available plans.
• Choose a plan that meets your business requirements and sign up for an account.
• During the sign-up process, you can select the type of business number you want, such as toll-free, local, or international.

6. Nextiva: A Robust Business Phone System for Enhanced Customer Engagement

Nextiva is a leading provider of business communication solutions that offers phone services, CRM, and team collaboration tools. They provide business phone numbers as part of their service plans. Here's how to get a business phone number through Nextiva:

• Visit the Nextiva website and explore the available plans.
• Select a plan that suits your business requirements and sign up for an account.
• During the sign-up process, you can choose the type of business number you want, such as toll-free, local, or international.
• Follow the instructions to set up your business phone number and configure the features according to your needs.

In conclusion, obtaining a dedicated business phone number is an essential aspect of building a professional image and effectively communicating with customers. With various types of business phone numbers available, including toll-free, local, vanity, and VoIP numbers, businesses can choose the option that best aligns with their specific needs. Key features like virtual receptionists and call forwarding can further enhance communication capabilities and provide flexibility for modern work environments. Reputable providers like RingCentral, GoDaddy Conversations, Grasshopper, 8x8, GoTo Connect, and Nextiva make it simple to obtain and manage a business phone number, ensuring your company stays connected and ready to serve customers on a local, national, or even global scale.

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How to Get a Business Phone Number: A Guide & Providers

A business phone number provides credibility, increases brand recognition, and keeps personal telephone numbers private. It makes it easier for customers to find--and remember-- how to contact your business, differentiates your company from competitors, and builds consumer trust.

In this article, we'll explore how to get a business phone number, available number types, key features, and top providers.

• Top Providers
• Types of Numbers
• Must-Have Features
• How to Choose

How to Get a Business Phone Number

• Choose a phone number provider:  Decide if you want a more professional alternative to your personal phone number, or if you need the advanced features of a complete VoIP phone system provider that includes business phone numbers in their bundled plans.
• Check phone number availability: Business VoIP number providers have searchable number databases that tell you whether or not your desired phone number/number type is available. Many will also provide similar alternatives if your desired phone number has already been claimed.
• Enter payment information:  Once you’ve chosen your business phone number, enter your credit card information into the provider website. You can also add on additional features, set up automatic recurring payments, and specify if you want annual/monthly billing.
• Assign users and configure call flow paths:  Once you’ve purchased the business phone number, assign it to specific users, add extensions, and configure voicemail boxes and call flow paths.
• Use your business phone number:  Once you’ve paid for and set up your phone number, you can begin making/receiving calls from it and continue to update features and configurations. You can easily purchase additional business phone numbers, add lines to existing numbers, on the provider website.

Top Business Phone Number Providers

• RingCentral  - Best for uniform dialing, advanced SMS, and collaboration features
• Grasshopper  - Best for solopreneurs, growing businesses, and small local shops
• 8x8  - Best for SMBs that need international calling
• Nextiva  - Best for unlimited voice and video calling, and audio conferencing
• Vonage  - Best for teams that need a customizable phone system
• Ooma  - Best for basic features and custom extensions

1. RingCentral

RingCentral RingEX is a leading business phone system bringing messaging, video, and phone together in a single  VoIP software application .

In addition to the impressive functionality offered by RingCentral, each plan offers a business phone number. When you sign up for a plan, you’ll be asked to choose one of the following types of business numbers — toll-free, local, international, or vanity. Toll-free international numbers are available in 1000+ countries, and local phone numbers are available in over 200 area codes.

Additional numbers are available for purchase. Up to 8-digit extensions with site codes let users add the same dial plan to multiple locations. RingCentral ensures that your calls are protected by encryption. The provider offers features such as call forwarding, call routing, caller ID, call screening, and more to manage every call that comes in.

RingCentral pricing offers three monthly or annual business phone system plans:

• The Core plan from $20/user/month
• The Advanced plan from $25/user/month
• The Ultra plan from $35/user/month.

All plans include a local business phone number with unlimited domestic calling in the US/Canada. Users can also choose a toll-free phone number with account-wide monthly pooled minutes. The Core plan includes 100 monthly toll-free minutes, the Advanced plan includes 1000 monthly toll-free minutes, and the Ultra plan includes 10,000 monthly toll-free minutes.

Additional toll-free or local numbers are available for $4.99/number/month, additional vanity numbers carry a $30 one-time fee/number, and additional international numbers start from $5.99/user/month.

• Franchise businesses that want to implement a uniform dialing strategy across multiple retail locations
• SMBs needing business phone numbers with advanced SMS/MMS capabilities
• Remote/blended teams looking for advanced UCaaS/team collaboration features like video calling with breakout rooms, team chat, and whiteboarding

2. Grasshopper

Grasshopper is a virtual phone system geared toward small business owners, designed to help its users save money and look more professional.

Their plans offer dedicated business phone numbers to help keep work and your personal life separate.

Grasshopper offers multiple types of business numbers, including toll-free number prefixes like 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888. You can also choose a vanity number, a local number, or port your existing business or virtual number to Grasshopper. At this time, international phone numbers are not available.

Grasshopper pricing  includes four paid plans billable monthly or annually. Each plan includes the same features--the only difference between the plans is the number of users, phone extensions, and business phone numbers.

• The True Solo plan ($18/month), includes 1 user, 1 phone number, and 1 extension.
• The Solo Plus plan ($32/month) includes unlimited users, 1 phone number, and 3 extensions.
• The Small Business plan ($70/month) includes unlimited users, unlimited extensions, and 5 business phone numbers.

Users can add more extensions or phone numbers for an undisclosed fee.

• Solopreneurs getting a basic business phone number for the first time
• Growing businesses looking for high-value plans offering savings on multiple (or unlimited) phone numbers/extensions
• Small, in-office local businesses/retail shops that don't need a complicated business phone system with advanced features and automations

​​8x8 is designed to help you work from anywhere. It includes features like call forwarding, voicemail, and call recording that let you stay connected with customers from anywhere.

They have flexible plans to ensure businesses of every kind can meet their needs in the most cost-effective way possible.

8x8 offers toll-free, local, vanity, and international phone numbers on its two quote-based plans, X2 and X4.

• The X2 plan includes unlimited domestic inbound calling, unmetered outbound calling, and unlimited voice calling to 14 countries.
• The X4 plan gives businesses unmetered outbound calling to 48 countries. All plans come with unlimited extension-to-extension calling.

For a more detailed pricing, you'll need to talk to their sales team.

• Medium-sized businesses that want the option to scale from a standard business phone system to an omnichannel AI-powered contact center over time
• SMBs that need unlimited international voice calling on a budget
• Teams that want the option of choosing between metered or unmetered call pricing

Nextiva allows you to connect your phone system with business apps, AI, and automation all on one platform. With its cloud-based VoIP service, 99.999% uptime, and features like voicemail and call forwarding, Nextiva makes a great choice as a business phone number provider.

They offer local VoIP numbers in many major cities in most states and area codes in every state across the US.

Nextiva pricing  options include 4 monthly and annual paid plans:

• The Digital plan from $20/user/month
• The Core plan for $30/user/month
• The Engage plan from $40/user/month
• The Power Suite plan from $60/user/month

All plans include one local phone number, and the Engage and Power Suite plans include a toll-free number with toll-free minutes.

• Teams needing business phone numbers that come with unlimited audio conferencing
• Remote/blended teams looking for a phone number provider offering both voice and video calling
• In-office businesses with existing equipment requiring BYOD compatibility

Vonage makes communications more flexible, intelligent, and personal due to its APIs and a number of integrations. They boast an uptime of 99.999%, advanced call management features and AI features, and flexible pricing options.

Major businesses, such as DHL, Domino's, and Glassdoor, are among their customers.

Vonage Business pricing  includes 3 paid plans with user-based pricing:

• The Mobile plan from $13.99/line/month
• The Premium plan from $20.99/line/month
• The Advanced plan from $27.99/line/month

All plans include a local phone number with unlimited domestic calling with SMS/MMS, but no plans include a free toll-free number.

Add-ons include secondary line appearance ($14.99/month), mobile unlimited extensions ($24.99/extension/month), additional local phone numbers ($4.99/month), toll-free numbers ($39.99/month), virtual phone extensions ($24.99/month), and international phone numbers.

• Teams that want to build a custom phone system via add-ons instead of opting for a monthly bundled plan
• In-house teams needing a secondary line appearance feature to avoid the expense of additional hardware
• On-the-go teams needing a business phone application tailored to mobile devices

Ooma has features specifically curated for small businesses and those who are running their businesses from home.

The phone service provider is designed to cut its customers’ phone bills in half, as its website states that users save an average of 50% on each bill. Their cost-saving plans also include a free business phone number .

You can sign up for your business number right on the website. It will prompt you to select a country, state, city, and area code. You can choose if you want a default, repeating, or vanity number, and then pick the specific number you want.

Ooma Office pricing  includes three plans:

• The Essentials plan from $19/95/month
• The Office Pro plan from $24/95/month
• The Office Pro Plus plan from $29/95/month

All plans include a local phone number with 1 user extension plus unlimited calling to the US, Mexico, and Canada. Additional local numbers and toll-free numbers with 500 minutes/month are both available for $9.95/number/month.

Users can upgrade their toll-free calling plans to include 1,500 minutes/month ($15/month) or 3,000 minutes/month ($30/month.)

• Healthcare/medical professionals needing a business phone system with industry-specific integrations
• Teams looking for a flexible number plan offering custom extensions
• Businesses needing only basic phone system features, like conferencing calling, Caller ID, and call recording

Types of Business Phone Numbers

Not all business phone numbers are created equal, and the type you choose for your business is a key consideration.

The main types of business phone numbers are: 

• Local Numbers
• Toll-Free Numbers
• Vanity Numbers
• International Numbers
• DID Numbers

Local Phone Numbers

Best For: Small businesses that want to establish a local presence in their neighborhood/community while increasing customer answer rate

A local phone number begins with an area code that links a business to a specific physical location (county, city, state). These numbers give businesses a local presence in areas where their customers live. Local, familiar area codes build consumer trust and make customers much more likely to accept calls from numbers they don’t recognize.

For example, if the majority of your customer base lives in Miami, FL, you should select a local number with a 305 number prefix (Miami’s area code.) Businesses can–and should–purchase several local phone numbers across multiple area codes to establish a local presence across the country..

Affordable and easy to set up, local numbers are popular with mom and pop shops, restaurants/bars, salons/boutiques, and hyper-local service professionals like plumbers or real estate agents.

Toll-Free Phone Numbers

Best For: Businesses that want to appear more established and trustworthy, businesses that want to provide free long-distance calling for customers 

A toll-free number is a business phone number with a fixed three-digit number prefix indicating the business owning the toll-free number, not the customer calling it, pays for the call. 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833 are all toll-free codes.

Toll-free numbers provide customers with free local and long-distance calls while helping businesses to appear more established–especially valuable for new companies.

Toll-free numbers can be local, international, or vanity numbers, and are available for purchase from RespOrg phone number/VoIP service providers.

Vanity Phone Numbers 

Best For: Businesses needing to differentiate themselves from a high volume of competitors within their specific area or industry, businesses focused on brand recognition and reputation management.

A vanity phone number is a customizable personalized toll-free number that lets you spell out relevant words or phrases. (1-800-FLOWERS is perhaps the best-known example of a vanity number.)

Vanity phone numbers are an excellent way to boost name recognition and number memory. Even if someone who hears or sees your vanity number doesn’t need what your business sells now, they’ll know who to call when they do.

However, many vanity numbers are already taken, meaning you may need to come up with several alternatives. They are also more expensive than standard toll-free numbers.

International Phone Numbers

Best For: Businesses with a large number of international customers and/or physical locations in different countries

An international phone number is a phone number that establishes a local presence in another country, differentiated by a specific corresponding country code. International numbers can be local or toll-free.

While some VoIP providers include a limited number of international minutes to specific countries in bundled plans, most international calls are charged at the country’s per-minute rates.

Direct Inward Dial (DID) Number

Best For: Businesses with a high daily inbound call volume and/or a large number of employees 

A Direct Inward Dial (DID) number is a business phone number that directly connects a caller to a specific agent, call queue, voicemail box, or phone extension –automatically bypassing IVR call menus.

Must-Have Business Phone Number Features

​​Your virtual business phone app will only be of service if you find one with the features that will best serve your unique business needs.

• Mobile App: A mobile application is one of the most important features to consider in your phone service. It allows you to take your conversations with colleagues and customers on the go.
• Call Forwarding: This feature gives you the flexibility to direct your calls to any other number that you need them to go to.
• Auto Attendant: Auto attendants are automated menus that use a voice prompt to navigate your customers’ calls to the right department. These are a great way to manage calls and ensure your customers don’t have to be on hold for too long.
• Voicemail Transcription: Finding a VoIP service that offers voicemail-to-email or voicemail-to-text would be a benefit to your business, since it would automatically provide you with notes from any voicemail.
• Call Recording: While voicemail transcription offers a hard copy of your voicemail, call recording will make sure you don’t forget a thing from any outgoing or incoming calls. Be sure to follow applicable call recording laws.
• Call Parking: This feature will allow you to put a caller on hold in the cloud and enable any employee to pick the call back up. That way, the most qualified person can handle the call without having customers on hold for too long.
• Analytics: This will give you all the data you need to make sure that your employees are as effective as possible on their calls.

Best Practices For Choosing a Business Phone Number

Below are some of the best practices to consider when choosing a business number.

Consider Use Cases

The ideal type of business phone number varies by desired use case:

• Toll-free numbers should be assigned to customer service departments, as customers should not be charged for support calls
• Sales calls should be made from local phone numbers, as customers are more likely to pick up
• Vanity phone numbers should be linked to ad campaigns and connect users to an IVR call menu to better direct their call

Consider Business Size

The ideal business phone number type also depends on your business size:

• Local phone numbers are best for startups/solopreneurs
• Toll-free numbers are best for SMBs and growing businesses
• Vanity numbers are best for businesses of any size struggling to outpace tough competitors
• International phone numbers are best for global, enterprise-level corporations

Consider Required Features 

Does the virtual phone number provider offer advanced VoIP features like:

• Call forwarding, call transfer, call routing
• IVR and editable call flow paths
• Historical/real-time analytics
• Virtual voicemail and call recording
• Ring groups, call queuing , etc.
• Third-party integrations and APIs

Consider Provider Scalability

How scalable is your business phone number platform, for example:

• Does the VoIP provider offer pay-as-you-go, metered calling plans or unlimited local/long-distance calls with bundled toll-free minutes?
• Are calls to some countries, like Canada and Mexico, included?
• Does the provider offer add-on features or multiple tiered plans with monthly/annual billing?
• Does your business need a complete VoIP phone system or a standard VoIP phone number provider?

Businesses should purchase both a local and toll-free phone number when possible. Local numbers increase consumer trust in new businesses and make customers more likely to answer your call. Toll-free numbers let callers contact your brand at no cost to them and increase brand recognition.

Yes, you can access your VoIP business phone number on any desktop or mobile device with a working internet connection, since virtual phone numbers are not tied to a specific location.

Yes, it is possible to get a business phone number without a contract from a provider with month-to-month billing options. Google Voice also offers free local VoIP phone numbers with limited features.

How to Get a Business Phone Number

In today’s competitive business landscape, cutting costs without cutting corners is crucial to success. One way to do that is by securing a free business phone number. It’s not only about saving money; it’s about maintaining professionalism and accessibility.

Whether you’re a startup on a shoestring budget or a small business looking to optimize expenses, a free business phone number can be a game-changer. Let’s dive into how to get one, ensuring your business stays connected without breaking the bank.

Best Provider for Business Phone Numbers

Choosing the right provider for a free business phone number can streamline your operations and enhance customer service. Below, you’ll find the best providers in the market, each with unique features catering to various business needs.

• Receive both a local and toll-free number at no additional cost
• No contracts, pay-as-you-go
• Easy-to-understand pricing with no overages
• Generous plan quotas for both calls and text messages
• Phone tree support
• Create extensions for each of your users
• Hours of operation to only accept calls certain times of the day
• Built-in videoconferencing support with all plans
• HIPAA Compliance
• Zapier integration
• $39 minimum to have extensions
• Lowest-cost plan is more expensive than most
• Free trial is only 7 days
• Unlimited calling (all plans) and unlimited text messages (Plus plan)
• Manage multiple phone numbers and voicemail boxes
• Create single and multi-digit extensions for your team
• Create a phone tree to route calls to the correct department
• Create hours of operation to route calls based on the time of day
• Ring multiple lines simultaneously
• Transfer calls from one line to another
• Record calls for legal or training purposes
• Downloadable apps for iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux

TalkRoute offers an excellent platform for managing your calls without a hefty investment. It’s particularly beneficial for small businesses that are ready to take their communication to the next level. With TalkRoute, you get:

• A complimentary local or toll-free number
• Basic call management features
• The ability to use existing devices without needing additional hardware

This option works well if you’re looking for simplicity and ease of use. It makes it easier to stay connected with your customers without complication.

Other Good Options

Ooma office.

Ooma Office stands out for those seeking more than just a basic phone service. It’s perfect for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a cost-effective solution that includes:

• A free number with affordable plans for expanded services
• Easy setup with no contracts
• A range of features like virtual receptionist, ring groups, and call-blocking

Ooma Office is ideal if you require more functionality from your phone system to support your growing business needs.

MightyCall is a robust option for businesses that prioritize mobility and flexibility. With MightyCall, you benefit from:

• A free vanity, local, or toll-free number
• Features aimed at mobile entrepreneurs, like voicemail to text and call routing
• No additional hardware is required as it seamlessly integrates with mobile devices

If you’re always on the go and need a reliable system that keeps you connected to your customers, MightyCall is a solid choice.

GoToConnect

GoToConnect (formerly known as Jive) offers a comprehensive suite of features that are great for businesses with remote teams. Key highlights include:

• A free number with the purchase of their service
• Advanced features such as video conferencing and auto-attendants
• Scalability for businesses of all sizes

If remote collaboration and a wide range of features are crucial for your business, then GoToConnect provides an all-in-one solution for your communication needs.

RingCentral

RingCentral is often the go-to choice for businesses seeking a free phone number and a fully integrated communication platform. It offers:

• A free trial that includes a phone number
• Comprehensive communication tools like messaging, video, and phone
• Strong integration capabilities with apps like Salesforce and Google Workspace

RingCentral is best suited for businesses that need a robust, all-encompassing platform for their communication strategies.

Nextiva is recognized for its reliability and excellent customer service, making it a favorite among businesses of all sizes. With Nextiva, you can enjoy:

• A free number as part of their service packages
• Exceptional call quality and reliability
• Advanced features like CRM integration and automated surveys

If customer service and reliability are your top priorities, Nextiva’s offerings are designed to meet and exceed your expectations.

Best Providers for Free Business Phone Numbers

In your quest to find a free business phone number, recognizing the top providers in the market is crucial. These services offer you a cost-effective solution and ensure your business maintains a professional image. Let’s delve into a couple of the best options available.

Google Voice

Google Voice is a stellar choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs looking for a free business phone number. One of its most appealing features is its integration with other Google services, making it a seamless addition to your business workflow. Here’s why Google Voice might be the perfect fit for you:

• Free for Personal Use : Small businesses can obtain a Google Voice number for personal use for free. The number offers calls, text messages, and voicemail services.
• Integration : Seamlessly integrates with other Google applications like Gmail and Google Calendar, enhancing productivity.
• Intelligent Features : Offers advanced features such as voicemail transcription and spam detection, ensuring you stay at the top of your communication game.

However, Google Voice offers a tiered pricing model for access to more business-oriented features like an auto attendant or multi-user support. This means that as your business grows, you can scale your communication tools accordingly without switching providers.

TextFree is another excellent provider that offers a free business phone number, emphasizing text messages but not falling short on the calling features. It’s a perfect fit if your business communication heavily relies on texting. Here’s what makes TextFree stand out:

• Free Texting and Calling : This service provides unlimited free texts to US and Canadian numbers, and inbound calls are free. Outbound calls require earning or purchasing minutes, but this is still a cost-effective model.
• Ease of Use : TextFree is incredibly user-friendly. It offers a simple setup process and an intuitive interface, ensuring you won’t waste time on complicated configurations.
• Custom Number Selection : This allows you to choose your number and pick something memorable or aligned with your branding.

TextFree operates via a mobile app, making it ideal for businesses on the go or for individuals who prefer managing their business communications via their smartphones.

Selecting the right business phone number provider is a cornerstone in establishing effective communication channels with your customers.

Each service comes with its unique set of features and limitations, so it’s fundamental to weigh your business needs against what each provider offers. Whether your priority is integration with other tools, the ability to scale, or the ease of texting, there’s a solution tailored to your requirements.

Top Features to Look for in a Free Business Phone Number Provider

When you’re searching for a free business phone number provider, knowing which features are essential can be the difference between choosing a service that merely works and one that elevates your business communication. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for:

A top-tier provider offers robust call management features including call forwarding, call queues, and voicemail. These tools are crucial for ensuring that no customer call goes unanswered.

The best providers make their platforms user-friendly. You should be able to set up and start using your business number without needing a manual or tech support.

For a seamless workflow, look for services that integrate with your existing CRM software, email, and other business tools. Integration streamlines your operations and boosts productivity.

As your business grows, your communication needs will evolve. Opt for a provider that offers easy scalability, allowing you to add more numbers or features without hassle.

Even with free services, you deserve excellent customer support. Choose a provider known for responsive and helpful support teams.

Your business phone number is your lifeline to customers. Ensure the provider offers a reliable service with minimal downtime.

By prioritizing these features, you’re setting your business up for improved communication, enhanced productivity, and, ultimately, more satisfied customers. With the right free business phone number provider, you’re not just saving money but investing in your business’s future success.

Benefits of a Free Business Phone Number

In today’s competitive market, securing a free business phone number can be a game changer for your startup or small business. Not only does it cut operational costs, but it also elevates your brand’s professionalism and accessibility. Let’s explore the advantages of obtaining a free business phone number and how it supports your business’s growth.

Reduced Overhead

Traditional phone services often come with hefty monthly fees and long-term contracts that can eat into your budget. A free business phone number eliminates these costs, allowing you to allocate funds to other crucial aspects of your business, like marketing and product development.

Accessibility

In the digital age, customers expect prompt and efficient communication. A dedicated business number ensures you’re reachable and responsive to customer inquiries, orders, and service requests. This responsiveness can improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, translating into repeat business and referrals.

A free business phone number can offer features such as voicemail, call forwarding, and customized greetings that enhance your company’s professional image. Plus, opting for a vanity number can make your business more memorable and easily identifiable to your customers.

Flexibility

Many free business phone services operate over the Internet, allowing you and your team to receive or make calls from anywhere. This particularly benefits businesses with remote or distributed teams, ensuring seamless communication regardless of location.

Understanding these benefits, it’s clear that a free business phone number can be a strategic asset. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about enhancing your business’s connectivity, professionalism, and overall brand image.

Types of Business Phone Numbers

Understanding the different types available is crucial when looking for a free business phone number. Each type offers unique benefits that can align with your business goals and customer interaction strategies. From toll-free numbers that expand your reach to vanity numbers that boost brand recognition, selecting the right type can enhance your professional image and accessibility.

Toll-Free Numbers

Toll-free numbers are popular for businesses aiming to establish a national presence. These numbers allow your customers to call you without incurring any charges, regardless of location. The most common prefixes for toll-free numbers include 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, and 844.

The Benefits of Having a Toll-Free Number

It makes your business accessible to customers nationwide without additional cost.

Encourages more inquiries and customer interactions by removing cost barriers.

Toll-free numbers are often associated with established and credible businesses.

Vanity Phone Numbers

A Vanity phone number is a customized toll-free number that spells out a word or phrase related to your business, making it easy to remember. Examples include 1-800-FLOWERS or 1-888-NEW-CARS. These numbers can significantly boost your marketing efforts and brand recall.

The Benefits of Having a Vanity Number

Provides a memorable point of contact that aligns with your branding efforts.

Enhances advertising effectiveness by using a number that’s easier to recall than a numeric sequence.

Increases the likelihood of customer calls due to the ease of remembering your number.

Local Phone Numbers

Local phone numbers have area codes specific to particular regions or cities. They are an excellent choice for businesses focusing on a local customer base or wanting to establish a local presence in multiple cities.

The Benefits of Having a Local Number

Gives your business a local feel, even if you’re operating nationally or internationally.

Customers often prefer dealing with local businesses, viewing them as more approachable and trustworthy.

With a local number, you can choose area codes that strategically benefit your business in specific markets.

Understanding these types of business phone numbers will help you make an informed decision on what suits your business best. Whether it’s the nationwide appeal of a toll-free number, the memorable impact of a vanity number, or the local charm of a local phone number, there’s a solution that aligns with your business communication needs.

Further Reading

• What Is Shopify Credit? Shopify Credit Card Review
• The Seller Journal Guide to Amazon Project Zero
• The Best Camera for Etsy Product Photos – Top 4 Picks For 2024
• How to Find Products to Sell on Amazon with AmzChart
• The Top 10 Handmade Categories, States, and Cities on Amazon

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• Foundations

How to Get a Business Phone Number for Your Startup

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Before you get a business phone number, there are a few things to consider. Consider your purpose, needs, and what benefits a business phone number will bring to your business. Then consider the best business phone service for your business.

This guide covers what a business phone number is, the benefits of getting one, and how you can get started.

What Is a Business Phone Number?

Put simply, a business phone number is a telephone number used for business purposes. There are many uses for a business phone line, including:

• Customer service support line
• Technical support
• Appointment scheduling
• Order taking

How to Get a Business Phone Number

Getting a business phone number is as simple as selecting a business phone service provider and placing an order with them.

To get a business phone, follow these steps:

• Decide why you need a business phone line
• Decide what type of business number (toll-free, local, vanity, etc.)
• Order a business phone line through the chosen provider

Decide Why You Need a Business Phone Line

Figuring out exactly what your business phone goals are can help you determine your needs and, in turn, determine which business phone service will best suit those needs.

Here are some example reasons why your business may need its own phone line.

Customer Service Support Line

Many businesses have a customer support line to assist customers so they can:

• Address customer concerns in a timely manner
• Save the customer time and frustration by receiving assistance over the phone
• Help create a positive customer experience

Telesales Business Phone Line

Some businesses choose to sell products and services directly over the phone. These businesses need a business phone line to do business with customers.

A business phone line for telesales can help your business:

• Make more sales
• Connect with prospective clients faster
• Measure your sales success (i.e., call metrics/analytics)

Technical Support Business Phone Line

Many businesses have a technical support line to assist customers with technical issues. Most businesses with technical support lines use them to:

• Provide help with technical issues
• Teach customers about products and services
• Improve products for future versions of products
• Install software updates more easily

Appointment Scheduling Business Phone Line

Many businesses need a business phone line to assist customers with scheduling time with their company. Some aspects include:

• Reminding customers to schedule appointments
• Providing customers an avenue to place and ask questions about appointments

Order Taking Business Phone Line

Many businesses need a business phone line to take customer orders. A business phone line allows customers to:

• Phone in orders (pizza, parts, etc.)
• Place reservations
• Check on pending requests
• Learn business inventory availability
• Pay in advance

Choose the Type of Number

There are different types of business phone numbers to pick from based on your business’s scope:

• Toll-Free Numbers:  Toll-free numbers are those that customers can call without any charge to them, making it a good choice for businesses that operate in more than one location. 
• Local Numbers:  As the name implies, a local business phone number is location-specific. If your business operates out of one location, you may only need a local number that your customers can easily recognize.
• International Number:  If you do business in different countries, you may want an international business number tied to that location. An international location can make it easier to transact business with clients in other markets.

Vanity vs. Non-Vanity Numbers

Vanity phone numbers are a way for companies to make themselves stand out by matching the company’s branding and creating an aura of exclusivity. For example, the customer service number for FedEx is 1-800-463-3339, which translates to the more memorable “1-800-GOFEDEX.”

Vanity phone numbers can be local numbers, but they are often toll-free numbers. They can also be pricier than using a regular phone number as well as trickier to obtain. However, the memorability and ease of a vanity phone number can make it well worth the money.

Landline vs. VoIP Numbers

You may also need to decide whether you want your business phone to be on a landline or through the internet. 

Landline phones are those phones that are connected through wires. With the advent of cell phones and the internet, landlines seem to have fallen by the wayside for most users. However, businesses may consider installing a landline phone system if they do not have a strong internet connection and need to rely on consistent call quality.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems use your business’s internet connection to make phone calls. Unlike landlines, VoIP phone services are easy to set up, come with many advanced calling features (auto attendants, call recording, etc.), and are typically less expensive to maintain.

Find a Business Phone Service

Once you know what you need from your business phone number, it’s time to find a business phone service that meets your expectations. Some of our favorite services include:

• RingCentral
• Grasshopper

For a closer look at these companies, check out our in-depth guide to the  best business phone services .

Do I Need a Business Phone Number?

Not every business needs a business phone number. Smaller, informal businesses (e.g., freelancers) may be able to start off just using their personal phone numbers. 

That being said, we recommend that most businesses get a business phone number , especially If they are a larger business, one with multiple employees, or one that plans on expanding soon. A business phone number will help establish your credibility and help you separate your business from your personal life.

More Business Phone Guides

• The Best Advice for Making Business Phone Calls
• How Do I Get my Business Phone Number Listed on Google?
• How to Add a Business Line to Your Cell Phone
• Business VoIP Phone Service
• Best Small Business Phone System For Startups 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the pros and cons of getting a business phone number.

For some, a business phone number is an absolute must. For others, it may not be necessary.

There are a variety of advantages to having a business phone number, such as increased professionalism, separate personal and business networks, and easier customer interactions.

What is the cost of getting a business phone number?

The cost of getting a business number varies depending on the provider and the package selected. For the best providers and best pricing, see our review of the  best business phone services .

Do I need a business phone line to build business credit?

A business phone line can help businesses  build business credit , as a dedicated business phone number can help creditors know that a business is a professional operation. Business credibility is important to have when applying for loans.

Topics to Explore

• Startup Ideas
• Startup Basics
• Startup Leadership
• Startup Marketing
• Startup Funding

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How to get a free business phone number?

By clicking the button above, you consent to receiving calls and emails from RingCentral. Calls may be connected using automated technology.

A dedicated business phone number is an important part of setting up a company, as it ensures you come across as professional and established. As your organization grows, you might need to add an extra business line or change your existing number to better suit your needs.

If those phone numbers are free, you’ll make a significant saving—and it’s great if your customers can get in touch with you free of charge, too. 

But how do you get a free business phone number? Read on as we take a look at:

Types of business phone numbers

Benefits of free business numbers, benefits of a virtual phone system, how can i get a free phone number, which provider should i pick.

There are several different types of business phone numbers, some of which you can obtain for free. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Virtual phone numbers

Virtual phone numbers, also known as online phone numbers, use internet technology instead of traditional phone lines. They are not tethered to one particular phone or location, and can be accessed from any internet-enabled device.

They’re part of a virtual phone system delivered by software as a service (SaaS), and accept calls through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Many VoIP providers offer virtual phone numbers , which you can program to forward incoming calls to preset phone numbers (fixed, mobile, or VoIP).

VoIP phone numbers

A VoIP phone number is basically the number assigned when you sign up for a VoIP service. You still enter a string of digits on a dialpad to make a call, but there are many features that you don’t get with regular landlines. 

You can share the number between devices and employees, route calls, record voice messages, and access unlimited minutes.

Once you plug an IP phone into a local available network (LAN) port, the device registers itself on the VoIP network, and you can use your VoIP number like a normal phone number.

Local phone numbers

These are simply numbers with an area code attached to a specific location. If this is the only type of number you need, it’s easier to get a business number that’s completely free.

Because virtual and VoIP phone numbers are independent from a location, these phone systems allow you to choose an area code that’s separate from your actual premises. You might want to do this because customers are more likely to call a local business or answer the phone to a local number.

Local phone numbers are available from your service provider, but some have more choice than others. For instance, RingCentral gives you more than 200 area codes to choose from.

Toll-free and vanity numbers

Toll-free numbers (such as 800 numbers) are free for your customers to call, but not necessarily free for you! 

You can often pick a randomly-assigned number for free, but you may have to pay to choose your own preference. However, they are very reasonably priced—gone are the days when only big businesses could afford them.

Most toll-free numbers are free of charge when calling long-distance inside the US and Canada. Many providers also offer toll-free numbers for other countries, so you can go global and keep more customers happy by letting them call you for free.

A vanity number is a customized telephone number that spells out a memorable word or business name. These are less likely to be free, as you’ll probably have to pay an activation fee.

A free business phone number can help you to:

• Look professional
• Increase revenue
• Improve productivity
• Access extra features

If you sign up for a free virtual phone number, the setup is way cheaper (and faster) than installing physical phone lines—which is great news for startups and small businesses. And you can make and receive cheaper local and international phone calls, too.

Reducing telephony costs means you can concentrate on other aspects like marketing, and you can also pass your savings onto the customer. Because virtual and VoIP phone numbers are cloud-based, the provider also takes care of maintenance and security.

Many established and small business owners use virtual business phone number apps to get a custom phone number. It’s easy to choose your own local or toll-free business number, upgrade to a vanity number to improve brand recognition, and transfer existing numbers to a new service.

You can choose one number to cover multiple branches of your business, which increases the likelihood of customers remembering it—and the number can be shared by different employees at the same time.

Virtual and VoIP numbers let you have inbound calls forwarded to your personal cell phone, computer, or desk phone, or you can answer through mobile apps. The convenience of not being tied to one office phone is perfect for remote teams, while those without physical premises can handle business calls from anywhere.

Handy features usually include call menu options, voice messages, and text messaging—and if your number is part of a wider virtual business phone system from a company like RingCentral, you’ll get plenty of other tools to help save time and money.

Let’s also mention the benefits of a separate business phone line, as opposed to using a personal number. As well as telling customers that you’re professional and trustworthy, it protects your privacy and helps you keep work within set business hours.

Traditional landlines just don’t measure up to virtual services when it comes to efficiency and cost. PBX systems cost more to install and maintain, and they don’t give you the flexibility or scalability to grow your business.

Instead of having your phone company install a new line to your premises, or buying a second phone for business use, you can choose a virtual system where you receive calls via your computer or mobile phone.

All you need is an internet connection and an internet-enabled device (or you could choose to invest in dedicated VoIP phones). Then, you can use your current hardware to field business calls and download an app to make outbound calls.

With everything based in the cloud, virtual and VoIP solutions are extremely scalable. Upgrades are delivered automatically, and it’s simple to create additional business phone lines or set up phone apps for Android or iOS. Subscription plans mean you only pay for what you use.

You can also share a phone number across multiple devices, and pick up calls from any other device using that number—no more missed calls or inefficient call transfers. If you already have a business number, you can move it to your new VoIP provider.

Virtual phone numbers are often more reliable (especially with a provider like RingCentral) because they’re managed through a controlled data center. You get better audio quality than traditional phones, which ensures maximum professionalism for business calling.

Don’t forget the integral call management features like call routing and virtual receptionists. With business VoIP from RingEX, you also get a full communications suite including conference calls, file sharing, and messaging.

Look online and you’ll soon see that there are several free business phone apps offering virtual phone services. Including free local phone calls and texts. When cost-saving is an issue, it can be tempting to sign up for one of these—but they are usually not robust enough for business use.

“Free” is often not quite what it seems, and with a free virtual phone number, you’ll still have to pay for your internet and existing cell service. In most cases, free apps only offer a limited number of minutes, and the phone number may only be free for a trial period.

It’s important to do some thorough research before choosing a business phone service, even if a company offers you a free account. You’ll want to look for providers with a wide choice of numbers and customization options, general flexibility, reliability, and security, as well as call management tools and integrations.

Generally, if you want anything other than basic features, you’ll have to start paying—and this can quickly add up. So, for a long-term business solution, you’d be better off investing in a full virtual phone system from a reputable company like RingCentral.

It gives you unlimited calls within the US and Canada as well as affordable international calling, while the sophisticated phone features and services provide all the functionality your business needs.

Once you’ve decided to go for a virtual or VoIP phone system, there’s really only one contender—RingEX. 

Not only will you have access to affordable business numbers, you’ll also get the benefits of a unified communications suite with everything from conference calling to SMS.

Whether you’re looking for toll-free, local, or vanity numbers, RingCentral lets you choose from a vast database or customize your own. This includes international numbers for more than 75 countries, all with highly reasonable pricing and packages to suit all budgets.

The phone number you choose will be accessible from any device, including desk phones, computers, laptops, iOS, and Android cell phones—so your workers won’t need to use their personal phone plans. You can also port your current number to RingCentral to make life easier for customers and employees.

Your business number will show up as the caller ID, helping to cement your professional appearance. Call management functions like call routing are ideal for call centers, helping agents handle more calls and get to know their customer stories. And you also get:

• Auto-attendant
• Custom greetings and hold music
• Call forwarding
• Call recording
• Voicemail transcription
• Text messages
• Call queuing

With a full range of communication and collaboration tools included, you’ve got everything you need to make your business more efficient and get the most out of your new phone number. RingCentral is also super-secure and reliable, with all compliance standards adhered to.

RingEX has pricing to suit all types of business, with plans starting at $29.99 per month for a single user (prices get lower as you add more). This includes business phone or toll-free numbers, unlimited calls within the US and Canada, and unlimited business texting.

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Verizon business fios internet, verizon business phone, verizon business tv, verizon business bundles.

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See what else VoIP has to offer:

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Verizon business customer service FAQs

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Do Verizon Business plans get 5G?

Verizon Business plans do not automatically include 5G service for smartphones, but you can save $40/mo. when you sign up for Fios Gigabit Connection Internet and Business Unlimited Plus wireless. Call 1-833-529-1280 now to order .

In select service areas, Verizon also offers 5G business internet plans with speeds up to 400 Mbps—and savings up to $80/mo. when you bundle with Business Unlimited mobile plans. Offer & pricing details .

How much does Fios internet cost by itself?

Verizon offers three standalone business Fios plans at the following prices:

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Plus taxes, fees & equip. charges

Offer & pricing details

Does Verizon offer discounts for small business owners?

Yes! Small business owners can save on Verizon business internet services by bundling VoIP phone service with Fios (savings up to $25/mo.) or select Business Unlimited mobile plans with Fios and 5G internet plans (savings up to $80/mo.).

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How many lines are required for Verizon Business?

As a Verizon Business customer, you can add as many phone lines as you want to reach your customers. Verizon’s VoIP product, Digital Voice, delivers every call in musically clear HD audio and leverages calling features that get more convenient with every line you add. See how fast the savings stack up when you order multiple Digital Voice lines .

Get a Dedicated Phone Number for Your Business

Start making and receiving business calls using your virtual phone number right away.

*This service is available only in the US and Canada

To get your Business Phone Number go to your desktop >  Site Dashboard > Settings > Business Phone Number

Connect with customers anytime, anywhere.

With a business phone number from Wix, you can connect with customers wherever life takes you. Simply link your new business number to your current cell phone. Then, start making and receiving business calls using your current mobile carrier while keeping your personal number private.

*This service is available only in the US and  Canada

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Separate your business from your personal life with two different phone numbers on one device. This way you can keep it strictly business during work hours and catch up with friends and family in your free time. 

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Choose when you are available to take work calls by setting call hours that work with your dynamic schedule.  After hours calls will go directly to your voicemail, so you can enjoy your personal time. 

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Your business phone service comes with unlimited minutes and messaging in the US and Canada, so you can message and talk with your customers as much as you need. 

A Total Business Solution from Wix

Get built-in business tools with your Wix website, like Contact List, Chat and Invoices. They’re synced with your new number so you can grow and manage your business the way you want—all in one place.

So How Does It Work?

Choose a plan with a toll free or local phone number for your business

Open the Wix mobile app to link your new number to your smartphone

Start connecting with customers on your new business number

Toll-Free vs Local Phone Numbers

Choose whether a toll-free or local phone number is the best option for your business.

Toll-Free Number

Get a professional business prefix, that is usually an 800 number. This helps you get recognized everywhere and is free to call.

Local Number

Increase your local presence with a familiar, local area code connected to the place where you do business.

Drive Your Business to Online Success 

Business Website

With Wix, you can create a business website that matches your brand and attracts the right customers.

Custom Domain Names

Choose a domain name that makes it easy for customers to find your business.

 Business Tools

Get a complete marketing and customer management suite built directly into your Wix business site.

Online Store

Sell your products and services online with a custom storefront and powerful management system.

Professional Email Address

Build credibility with an email address using your business’s domain name.

Built-in SEO Tools

Drive traffic to your site with built-in SEO tools. Get a personal SEO plan, customize meta tags and more.

How do I get a separate business phone number?

Once you set up an account with Wix, you can add a dedicated business phone number to make a professional impression. This service is available only in the US and Canada.

Why should I get a number through Wix?

Your new phone number is part of Wix’s full business offering. It syncs with your website, chat, contact list, inbox, payment system and more. All of your business needs, in one place.

What is a toll-free number?

Toll-free numbers start with 1 followed by a 3 digit code starting with an 8, like an 800 number. Anyone can call a toll-free number from a landline free of charge. 

How to get a 1800 number?

Wix makes it easy to get your own 1800 number. Simply go to your site dashboard, click Business Phone Number on the side bar and follow the instructions to get your toll-free number. Then, select the 1800 number you want to start making calls.

How is a toll-free number helpful for a small business?

A toll-free or 1800 number helps give your small business credibility and it’s easy to remember. It is also portable, so if you relocate or scale your business into new cities it won’t affect customer relationships.

What are the benefits of having a virtual phone number?

A virtual phone number is convenient if you want a dedicated number for your business or side hustle while keeping your personal numbers private. Also, no additional equipment or contract is needed. Simply sign up and start making calls.

Do business phone numbers respond to text messages?

Your business phone number comes with it’s own number that has texting capabilities. You can view and reply to SMS messages from your local or toll-free number via Wix Inbox on your site dashboard or from the Wix mobile app.

Does my business phone number use my phone plan’s minutes?

Yes, any outgoing calls go through your cellular network, which means your private phone plan’s minutes will be used. However, if you’re on a plan with unlimited minutes, this shouldn’t affect you.

Does my business phone number use WiFi for calling?

No, it uses your cellular phone network to make and take calls. This ensures the best possible call quality.

Is business phone number a VOIP (Voice Over internet Protocol)?

No, there is no cellular data or WiFi needed to make and take calls, as the product uses your cellular phone network.

Can I purchase a business phone number without having a Premium website?

Yes, business lines are available for purchase for any Wix website, whether you have a Premium account or not. 

Can I operate my business line on the Wix mobile app with an iOS or Android phone?

Absolutely, you can download the Wix app from the Apple Store, Google Play Store and more. The Wix app is fully functional on all smartphones and allows you to operate your online phone number as well as many other features of your Wix website.

Can I send or receive text messages with my virtual phone number?

Yes, your business number comes with unlimited messaging in the US, Canada and UK, so you can text with your customers whenever you need.

Build a Professional Reputation

Stay connected and save time with an easy-to-use business phone solution that fits organizations of any size.

Work from anywhere

Your Voice line works on mobile devices, laptops, and supported deskphones so you can stay connected at work, home, or on-the-go.

Voice can be customized to fit your day-to-day workflow. Number assignment, porting, and billing are neatly consolidated in the familiar Google Workspace Admin console.

Voice uses Google AI to help save you time by blocking spam calls and transcribing voicemails to text automatically. Integrations with Google Meet and Calendar help keep the focus on what's important.

Voice can be deployed instantly — and globally — from anywhere, with less administrative work. This feature includes easy set up of multi-level auto attendants and ring groups (also known as hunt groups).

Works with Voice

Focus on what's important while staying connected with a business phone system on deskphones, smartphones, and the web.

Expand your reach with SIP Link

SIP Link  allows customers to connect PSTN services from any carrier to Google Voice through certified Session Border Controllers (SBCs).

Compatible hardware

Trusted by organizations of many sizes,  Polycom® devices  and  certified headsets  provide reliable solutions for business communication.

Google Workspace

Receive valuable meeting context from  Google Meet

Manage your work-life balance with  Google Calendar

Get more done with Voice and Google Workspace

Easy for users

Built for Google Workspace, Voice has a familiar look and user-friendly feel that fits easily into their workflow.

Easier for IT

Make it simple for your IT team to stay on top of their work with Voice, an integral part of the Google Workspace family.

Smart for business

Manage costs for your business with three license editions that help you streamline operations with Voice and Google Workspace.

Choose the right business phone plan for you.

1 View the list of countries where Voice is available.

Sign up for Google Workspace

Learn more about Google Workspace

per user / month

Up to 10 users

Up to 10 Domestic Locations

Calls between Google Voice numbers included

Calls to the US from any Google Voice number included 2

Calls to Canada from a Canadian or US Google Voice number included 2

Calls to most European countries from within Europe included 2

Google Fi Compatible [US only]

Voicemail transcription

Google Calendar Integration

Google Meet Integration

Mobile apps: Android & IOS

Web Application

24/7 Support

Service Level Agreement (SLA)

Usage and activity reporting

Call forwarding

Unlimited number of users

Unlimited Regional Locations

Unlimited Domestic Locations

Unlimited text messaging in US

Multi level auto attendant

Ring Groups

Desk phone and ATA support

eDiscovery for calls, voice mails and text messaging records

Ad-hoc user call recording

Unlimited International Locations 1

Advanced reporting (BigQuery)

Automatic Ad-hoc user call recording

Promotional pricing plans apply to EMEA only. Other regions may vary.

2 Refer to the Voice rate card for a complete list of calling rates for your Voice number.

Learn how VoIP phone emergency features differ from traditional emergency calling service .

Our sales team now uses Google Voice to call and text customers from their smartphones, tablets, and the web. And because it is considerably more affordable to operate than our legacy VoIP systems, we continue to steadily expand our usage of Google Voice.

Get started

Add Voice to your Google Workspace account

Voice integrates with your Google Workspace products. Get Voice for your organization. It's easy.

Work with a specialist

Ready for Voice, but have more questions? We've got you covered.

How To Write A Business Plan (2024 Guide)

Updated: Apr 17, 2024, 11:59am

Table of Contents

Brainstorm an executive summary, create a company description, brainstorm your business goals, describe your services or products, conduct market research, create financial plans, bottom line, frequently asked questions.

Every business starts with a vision, which is distilled and communicated through a business plan. In addition to your high-level hopes and dreams, a strong business plan outlines short-term and long-term goals, budget and whatever else you might need to get started. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to write a business plan that you can stick to and help guide your operations as you get started.

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Drafting the Summary

An executive summary is an extremely important first step in your business. You have to be able to put the basic facts of your business in an elevator pitch-style sentence to grab investors’ attention and keep their interest. This should communicate your business’s name, what the products or services you’re selling are and what marketplace you’re entering.

Ask for Help

When drafting the executive summary, you should have a few different options. Enlist a few thought partners to review your executive summary possibilities to determine which one is best.

After you have the executive summary in place, you can work on the company description, which contains more specific information. In the description, you’ll need to include your business’s registered name , your business address and any key employees involved in the business. 

The business description should also include the structure of your business, such as sole proprietorship , limited liability company (LLC) , partnership or corporation. This is the time to specify how much of an ownership stake everyone has in the company. Finally, include a section that outlines the history of the company and how it has evolved over time.

Wherever you are on the business journey, you return to your goals and assess where you are in meeting your in-progress targets and setting new goals to work toward.

Numbers-based Goals

Goals can cover a variety of sections of your business. Financial and profit goals are a given for when you’re establishing your business, but there are other goals to take into account as well with regard to brand awareness and growth. For example, you might want to hit a certain number of followers across social channels or raise your engagement rates.

Another goal could be to attract new investors or find grants if you’re a nonprofit business. If you’re looking to grow, you’ll want to set revenue targets to make that happen as well.

Intangible Goals

Goals unrelated to traceable numbers are important as well. These can include seeing your business’s advertisement reach the general public or receiving a terrific client review. These goals are important for the direction you take your business and the direction you want it to go in the future.

The business plan should have a section that explains the services or products that you’re offering. This is the part where you can also describe how they fit in the current market or are providing something necessary or entirely new. If you have any patents or trademarks, this is where you can include those too.

If you have any visual aids, they should be included here as well. This would also be a good place to include pricing strategy and explain your materials.

This is the part of the business plan where you can explain your expertise and different approach in greater depth. Show how what you’re offering is vital to the market and fills an important gap.

You can also situate your business in your industry and compare it to other ones and how you have a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Other than financial goals, you want to have a budget and set your planned weekly, monthly and annual spending. There are several different costs to consider, such as operational costs.

Business Operations Costs

Rent for your business is the first big cost to factor into your budget. If your business is remote, the cost that replaces rent will be the software that maintains your virtual operations.

Marketing and sales costs should be next on your list. Devoting money to making sure people know about your business is as important as making sure it functions.

Other Costs

Although you can’t anticipate disasters, there are likely to be unanticipated costs that come up at some point in your business’s existence. It’s important to factor these possible costs into your financial plans so you’re not caught totally unaware.

Business plans are important for businesses of all sizes so that you can define where your business is and where you want it to go. Growing your business requires a vision, and giving yourself a roadmap in the form of a business plan will set you up for success.

How do I write a simple business plan?

When you’re working on a business plan, make sure you have as much information as possible so that you can simplify it to the most relevant information. A simple business plan still needs all of the parts included in this article, but you can be very clear and direct.

What are some common mistakes in a business plan?

The most common mistakes in a business plan are common writing issues like grammar errors or misspellings. It’s important to be clear in your sentence structure and proofread your business plan before sending it to any investors or partners.

What basic items should be included in a business plan?

When writing out a business plan, you want to make sure that you cover everything related to your concept for the business,  an analysis of the industry―including potential customers and an overview of the market for your goods or services―how you plan to execute your vision for the business, how you plan to grow the business if it becomes successful and all financial data around the business, including current cash on hand, potential investors and budget plans for the next few years.

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How To Start A Business In Louisiana (2024 Guide)

Julia is a writer in New York and started covering tech and business during the pandemic. She also covers books and the publishing industry.

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Get the best business phone service for less.

Simplify team communication with the top-rated phone system for small businesses. Save hundreds over landlines.

Advanced phone features included.

A powerful phone service with voice, SMS, and video conferencing built in. Take calls on the business communication channels you prefer.

Professional calling features small businesses love.

Auto attendant.

Direct incoming calls like a pro. Route customer support and sales phone calls reliably to the right team members.

Call recording

Record business calls on your terms. Cloud-based call recording lets you provide feedback to your team for up to six months.

Unlimited calling

Talk as much as your small business needs. Enjoy unlimited calls across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico using VoIP phones.

Video conferencing

Join HD video meetings from your computer and mobile phone. Screen sharing enhances your business communication in real time.

Voicemail transcription

Skip dialing into your voicemail. Smart voicemail transcripts let you see a caller's voicemail message and reply over SMS.

Call routing

Our business VoIP phone solution solves inbound call management. Route callers using any criteria your small business needs.

Your search for small business phone service is now over.

For startups.

Omnichannel digital customer sales & service to connect and engage with customers on the channels they prefer and track social engagement and customer reviews.

Digital features:

Turn prospect and visitors into customers and provide customer service on your website by engaging with them in real-time through live chat . Start with automated prompts to gather essential information, then seamlessly transition to a live-agent interaction for a personalized experience or use AI Chatbot to interact with prospects or customers.

Support and sell using social messaging platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and more. All messages route to a single inbox so you won’t miss a thing.

Monitor, respond, listen, and publish on the most meaningful social platforms including: Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, Linkedin, YouTube, and your Google Business profile.

Protect your brand and control your reputation by automatically keeping tabs on key review sites. Set alerts so high-importance comments are handled immediately.

Sell more and support efficiently by routing all conversations to a single inbox. Channels include email, webchat, messengers, SMS, social media and review sites.

For small teams

Connect and engage with customers on digital, voice, video, and SMS. Never miss an interaction with AI-powered voicemail transcription. Empower all workers with desktop, mobile, and browser-based apps for customer conversations, collaboration, and contact management.

Core features:

Connect with customers and your team using award-winning, reliable voice conversations within the U.S. and CA*. Get a new number or bring over your existing number for free.

Send and receive SMS text messages from your business phone number using the desktop and mobile app.

Collaborate face-to-face with video meetings . Share your screen, engage in sidebar chats, share files, and record for future reference.

Ensure all calls are professionally answered and properly routed using a virtual receptionist recording that directs callers to, for instance, “press one for Sales and two for Service.”

For growing teams

Create amazing customer experiences across all channels with AI-powered intelligent routing, AI chatbots, analytics, insights, and integrations with CRM systems.

Everything in Core, plus:

Advanced IVR enables customer engagement inside your IVR to quickly and efficiently route customers to the right place, the first time. Enable CRM/CDP integrations to offer high-touch customer experiences.

Give your business a professional edge by offering a universal, non-local, toll-free number.

Move your business forward with insight gained from data found within your advanced IVR and queueing metrics.

Sync data between your core software, such as Salesforce HubSpot, and Zendesk.

Offer 24/7 support and efficiently manage responses to FAQs with web chatbot automation.

Power Suite

For sales & service teams.

Everything a small business needs to run a successful sales & service organization and to operate like a Fortune 500 company — including inbound voice, advanced routing with an AI-powered interactive voice bot, agent skills-based routing, data dips, and supervisor assist.

Everything in Engage, plus:

Manage high-volume inbound calls, use voice prompts and AI to route calls to best-fit agents. Queue calls and surface caller history for quick resolution.

Process high-volume inbound calls by auto-answering and prompting callers to ask questions or provide routing requests using an Intelligent Virtual Assistant.

Route callers to best-fit agents based on demographic, language, affinity, hard skills, etc.

Increase efficiency and collaboration by connect agents and supervisors in a single inferface.

Focus on what metrics matter most with a customizable real-time dashboard for supervisors.

Use advanced features when you're ready.

Add business phone numbers as you grow your team. Nextiva add-ons offer enhanced productivity and built-in customer support tools.

Get live customer support from real experts.

Manage your small business phone system with confidence. Get Amazing Service® from real pros, not bots. Call, web chat, or submit a ticket 24/7/365.

Unified communications made for business owners.

Free your business from the limits of traditional phone lines.

Mobile apps

• HD call quality from your mobile device
• Compatible with iOS or Android devices
• Advanced call management in the palm of your hand
• Join video meetings from your cell phone

Conference phones

• Sleek, easy-to-use conference phones
• Extended vocal range and noise reduction
• Optional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Ideal for in-office phone setups

VoIP desk phones

• Supports multiple business phone numbers and conferencing
• Wireless desk phone connectivity (Wi-Fi or DECT) available
• Optional Power over Ethernet (PoE) and Bluetooth add-ons
• Great for working from home and in the office

Desktop apps

• Free download for Windows or macOS
• Simply sign in to use your business phone line
• One-click audio and video conferencing
• Integrates with Salesforce CRM, Microsoft Dynamics, and more

Work from anywhere.

Our award-winning business phone services work over any internet connection, unlike traditional landlines. Team members can take calls on their mobile phones and desk phones. Easy setup — no IT staff needed.

Keep the apps you love.

Connect your VoIP phone system with popular business applications: Microsoft Outlook, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, and many more.

What makes Nextiva's business phone service better than others?

The answer is clear: Nextiva provides the best overall value for business owners. We guide you through every aspect of your phone system for your company. Our 99.999% uptime has you covered around the clock. If you ever have a question, our customer support is ready to help you 24/7. Plus, you'll save up to 60% over analog phone service.

Over 900,000 users trust Nextiva's phone service. Here's why:

Amazing service®.

24/7 support from real people. Browse our help center to learn more about small business VoIP. Or call, chat, or submit a ticket.

Reliable network

We provide outstanding network uptime and security. Eight highly redundant points of presence power our VoIP service.

Superb call quality

Worried about choppy audio? Our VoIP phone system provides voice calls in crystal-clear HD quality. It just works.

Easy phone setup

Choose any local number or toll-free number and download our mobile and desktop apps. Team members place calls right away.

Don’t just take our word for it.

Nextiva just, honestly, took Phat Scooters to the next level for customer service.”

All your business communications solutions in one place — phone, video, chat, contact management, and team collaboration. It doesn't get easier than Nextiva.

Small business phone service FAQs

How do i set up a business phone system.

Unlike some business phone services, there’s practically no technical setup you have to do to configure Nextiva. Out of the box, it works — and if you have a mobile device or computer (bet you do!), just sign in with your username and password to begin calling.

Business owners choose Nextiva because it’s so easy to use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service:

• Test your network and internet connection
• Choose optional VoIP desk phones
• Pick a business phone number
• Create usernames and passwords
• Test your new business phone lines
• When ready, adjust your incoming call flows, call waiting, voicemail, and international calling rules.

We've tested everything and hand-picked a catalog of high-quality desk phones and hardware.

Our basic small business VoIP plan starts at $18.95 per month. It has all the features a growing business needs — business text messaging, local and toll-free numbers, voicemail transcription, 99.999% uptime, and more.

Can I move my phone numbers to Nextiva?

Yes, it's easy to transfer phone numbers to Nextiva through a process known as porting. Porting lets you assign your number to a VoIP service provider like Nextiva.

You can transfer any number you use, including:

• Landline numbers
• Wireless/cell phone numbers
• Virtual numbers (Google Voice, TextNow, etc.)
• VoIP phone numbers
• Toll-free numbers

Nextiva handles everything related to moving your phone numbers over. Our porting team will inform you of the port-in date. From there, you can begin placing and receiving unlimited calls through Nextiva's cloud phone system.

Transferring business phone numbers will take approximately 2–4 weeks, depending on the previous carrier. In the meantime, you can use temporary phone numbers.

Watch this short video to see how to transfer your phone numbers to Nextiva:

How reliable is a VoIP phone system?

The short answer is business phone services are very reliable, so long as you don’t have a power outage.

You might also want to consider other factors like:

• Uptime — the percentage of time that a provider is online and is functioning. Nextiva provides customers with 99.999% uptime. This means service may not be available for about six minutes a year.
• Security — Call encryption is a newer enhancement to VoIP. Through TLS and SRTP, data exchanged between SIP phones and the cloud PBX are encrypted upon request.
• HD call quality — With twice the audio bandwidth, everyone can hear a wider range of sound in every business call.
• Enterprise-grade redundancy — Ensure that your calls stay online even through network interruptions using call forwarding, call queues, and automatic fail-over.

How do I get a toll-free number for my business?

Many businesses prefer to use a toll-free phone number instead of a local number to handle inbound phone calls.

Most business phone service providers (Nextiva included) offer different types of phone numbers:

• Local phone numbers — These numbers are based in certain geographic areas, also known as rate centers or area codes.
• Toll-free numbers — Phone numbers that begin with 800, 888, 866, 877, 855, 844, and 833 allow anyone to call it without toll charges or add-on fees from a landline.
• Vanity numbers — These numbers are memorable numbers like 1-800-FLOWERS. In most cases, it's best to purchase first and port them into your business phone system provider.

The upside of using a toll-free number is that team members can dial out with a shared caller ID on behalf of the company. Incoming calls go through an auto attendant to ensure they reach live agents.

Does Nextiva sell or lease VoIP phones?

Yes, we do both! Nextiva lets you buy or rent many top-rated VoIP phones and headsets that work perfectly with your phone system .

We offer many VoIP devices to purchase or lease, including desk phones, cordless phones, conference phones, and analog adapters.

The best part is that we pre-configure the devices so that you can use them instantly.

Can I use a phone answering service with Nextiva?

Yes, you can direct calls to your after-hours answering service with Nextiva. Incoming calls are routed by a third-party answering service that enables people to work from home with its audio conferencing and VoIP solutions.

Nextiva supports employees working remotely and in the office as one of the top unified communications solutions. Here are some essential features included with its business phone system:

• Virtual Phone System — Manage your company’s phone system over the internet while keeping your staff connected. No on-premises hardware needed.
• Conference Calling — Connect multiple people over a phone line to participate in a conference call, so you can hold essential meetings even when people are working remotely.
• Call Queues — Handle more calls and answer them efficiently with call queuing. Let callers hear on-hold music or announcements until the next available agent can answer their call. This way, calls aren’t dropped and employees can work efficiently.
• Video Calling — You don’t need a cell phone or desk phone when you can manage calls directly from the app on your computer.
• Advanced Features — As your business grows, so do your business communication needs. Take advantage of robust call analytics, business text messaging, hold music, multi-level auto attendants, call recording, call forwarding, custom caller ID , and more. For more scalability, set up an inbound call center for your customer support or sales team.

Here’s a primer on how VoIP phone service helps small businesses grow.

When you get a small business phone service, you'll want to know a few things about Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). You should be keen on exactly what your VoIP service includes.

You’ll also want to be mindful of the advantages of cloud phone systems for small businesses and enterprises.

Differences between business phone services and business phone systems

While they may sound similar, a small business phone system and a business phone service are actually two different but related aspects of business communications. All companies, small and large, need phone service to communicate with customers, vendors, suppliers, and employees. A business phone system provides a business phone number and helps you stay connected with all the right people through unified communication functionality.

Benefits of VoIP phone service for small businesses

Small business phone service comes full of benefits to allow your business to grow. Switching to a cloud-based phone service can save up to 60% of your phone bill. Traditional phone service is vulnerable to outages, while a business phone service has considerably better uptimes and is resistant to risks like bad weather. Call quality and security both maintain integrity in the eyes of your customers.

When is the best time to upgrade to VoIP service?

Nextiva delivers a VoIP phone service solution designed to provide small businesses with the tools they need to manage their voice communications. It includes the ability to scale through fully integrated business communications that allows you to plug in tools to improve customer management and employee productivity.

The best time to switch to business VoIP is before you buy on-premises telephone equipment, or get locked into lengthy maintenance agreements. Why? VoIP can save businesses over 60% versus their local telephone provider — and you get all the advanced calling features the pros have.

Nextiva’s award-winning VoIP phone system uses the internet rather than analog landlines, making setup turnkey and allowing users to seamlessly switch between desk phones or mobile devices to communicate with each other and with customers.

Nextiva provides small businesses with the ability to increase productivity by making everything available all in one tool, from business SMS to chat and from video conferencing to customer experience tools . The top business phone service for small businesses includes:

• Complete phone service that includes mobile and desktop apps, voicemail, toll-free numbers, number porting, and online faxing
• More than phone service. Nextiva delivers chat, audio and video meetings, auto-attendant, texts
• A highly reliable network that delivers 99.999% uptime through Tier-1 providers with strong failover redundancy
• Certified VoIP phone hardware guaranteed to work out of the box
• Guided online account setup or live with customer support team member
• Amazing Service®️ delivered by real people, not bots.
• Scalable features are easy to use, easy to add and work instantly. As your business grows, you can use add-ons to manage your sales pipeline, helpdesk, contact center, call recordings, and auto-attendants

You've made it. See why we're the best business phone service since 2006.

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Learn more about Nextiva’s business phone service.

How phat scooters uses nextiva to create the best customer experience every time., the top four reasons why businesses choose nextiva., the complete communication system for growing your small business., "nextiva puts all my customer data in one place. i can view account history, notes and documents from one screen. nextiva takes the guesswork out of customer relationships.", we'd like to know you better so we can serve you better..

We'll give you an intro to the perfect solution that fits your business. Get started on your journey to fearless growth.

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• Expect experts. Our product team will personally answer your questions.
• Expect quickness. Personalized, specific, clear, and to the point - you’re busy!

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Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *With annual billing **With contract

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With business VoIP services, you don't have to worry about limited numbers of physical phone lines.  VoIP services offer tons of perks that small business owners love . Some of these include being able to place VoIP calls from your desktop or cell phone using your VoIP phone number. What is especially great about it, is that when you call, your business phone number will show up on caller ID instead of your cell number or whatever you are using to make that call. This goes for incoming calls as well. They will dial the VoIP number and you can answer on whichever phone you want to use.

Bottom line: We searched through the market for the top services and found the 13 best VoIP providers out there—with RingCentral at the top offering price matching and a wide feature range at a low cost.  Ooma is also great for remote workers because of its ease of use and phone system flexibility.

For a full-service business phone solution that also provides reliable services for your growing business, RingCentral is a great option.

• RingCentral : Best full-service VoIP provider
• Ooma : Best VoIP service for remote work
• Nextiva : Best VoIP provider for midsize business
• 8x8 : Best budget buy
• Vonage : Best small business VoIP provider

Which VoIP should I use? Compare best providers

RingCentral: Best overall VoIP

We love that RingCentral offers such a wide range of product features. And the plans are fairly affordable, with price matching available and a generous allotment of toll-free minutes. Just look out for a so-so customer service experience.

Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *With annual billing

RingCentral offers a well-rounded work-from-home solution that includes integrated messaging, unlimited video conferencing, and cloud-hosted VoIP service right out of the box. The service includes a lot of features that other providers charge extra for (such as generous toll-free minutes). And small businesses don’t have to worry about whether they’re getting raked over the coals for their cloud-hosted VoIP service because RingCentral offers price matching on plans with less than 50 lines.

RingCentral VoIP plans

Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *Retention period applies

Another thing we love about RingCentral is its reliability. RingCentral promises a 99.999% uptime, meaning both your in-house and remote employees can rely on your VoIP system to work whenever they need it. Plus, RingCentral plans include unlimited internet faxing, phone conferencing, and video conferencing for up to 200 participants. Video meetings can even last up to 24 hours — just in case.

Here are a few other features business owners are sure to love:

• Unlimited calls within the US and Canada
• A toll-free or local phone number
• Automatic call recording
• Inbound caller ID
• Service in 100+ countries worldwide
• Voice menus in 10 different languages

And if you ever experience trouble with your VoIP system, RingCentral’s customer service team is available 24/7 via online chat or via phone during standard business hours. Keep in mind, though, that usually only larger enterprises get US-based support — small businesses usually get outsourced to overseas customer service representatives. If that doesn’t work for you, though, RingCentral also offers ticket service, an extensive online knowledge base, and weekly webinars to answer common questions.

Ooma: Best VoIP service for remote work

If your business has transitioned to remote work, Ooma offers affordable services that are easy to use and can easily grow with your company. While some customers have complained about dropped calls, we think Ooma’s still the ideal VoIP service for businesses working remotely.

Data as of post date.. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

With its scalable solutions, Ooma is one of our favorite small-business phone services. But Ooma’s Office and Office Pro plans also stand out as some of the best VoIP phone service offerings for businesses with remote employees.

Ooma phone systems are flexible, so you can use your office phone while working at home, place and accept work calls on your cell phone, and even use the Ooma desktop app to place calls on your computer. And Ooma’s plans stay affordable even with an upper-tier plan.

Ooma VoIP plans

Ooma’s remote features can help your business stay up and running no matter where your employees are. For starters, Ooma’s mobile and desktop apps allow remote employees to make and receive unlimited calls within North America using your business number.

We also like Ooma’s Ring Groups feature, which lets you group extensions together in your phone system so they all ring simultaneously. Then it transfers the call to whichever employee answers first. This allows your customers to get through to a representative as quickly as possible and provides a backup in case one of your employees has to step away to deal with childcare or move the laundry along.

Businesses working remotely should keep in mind, though, that Ooma offers video conferencing only on the Ooma Office Pro and Pro Plus plans. Otherwise, you get a conference line that lets remote employees collaborate over the phone. That puts Ooma a pace behind some of the other providers on our list, but with providers like Nextiva currently offering their video collaboration tool to businesses for free, it shouldn’t be a major issue.

Nextiva: Best VoIP software for midsize businesses

If you operate more than one office or have employees scattered around your areas working from home, Nextiva is easy to scale without breaking your budget. However, this option may not be best for companies that need low-cost international calling features.

Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Nextiva is great for midsize businesses on a budget because it delivers an impressive balance of pricing and features. Nextiva’s mobile app and desktop app allow your employees to ditch the clunky office phones of the past, and the service’s online management platform makes it easy to juggle multiple lines—even when your employees are all working from different locations.

Nextiva VoIP plans

Nextiva service also provides a number of helpful features for businesses working from home. For starters, there’s the Nextiva app, which lets you use your business phone number to make calls remotely from your desktop or mobile devices. Nextiva’s team collaboration tool, Cospace, also lets your team collaborate via video chat, so you can keep everyone one the same page.

If you need a way to video chat with your team, but aren’t interested in a full-blown VoIP service, we have good news. Right now, Nextiva is offering video and team collaboration for an unlimited number of users—completely free. See the Nextiva website to learn more about their Video & Collaboration service.

Word to the wise, though: Nextiva’s pricing can be a little complex, so make sure you click around the website’s pricing page to find the accurate pricing for your business. The website lists the Essential plan at $18.95 per month, for example. But if you click the tiny question mark next to the price, you find out that price is only for prepaid 36-month contracts on plans with 20-99 users. If you’re a small business on a month-to-month plan, you’ll actually wind up paying $30.95 per month for the same package.

That being said, we think it’s impressive that none of Nextiva’s plans cost more than $45 per month—especially considering all the VoIP service features you get. And for businesses with remote employees, features like unlimited video conferencing (with a Professional plan or higher), screen sharing, and team messaging make it easier to get work done even when everyone’s physically distant.

8x8: Best budget buy

8x8’s claims to fame are its incredibly low pricing, cheap international calling rates, and crowdsourced customer service. This VoIP provider offers limited mobile access, but it’s a good pick for any business trying to save a buck without sacrificing quality.

Data as of 7/7/23. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Given all the economic uncertainty faced by small businesses today, choosing a low-cost VoIP phone service makes a lot of sense. 

Fortunately, 8x8 offers three simple, feature-loaded plans that can help you keep your expenses low while also getting all the VoIP features you need. 8x8 even offers integrations with third-party business apps like Salesforce, Zendesk, Netsuite, and Microsoft Dynamics. That way, your business can build out a complete enterprise resource planning solution that allows your inventory, accounting, point-of-sale, and customer service to work together seamlessly—all without having to shell out big money for it.

8x8 VoIP plans

Data as of post date.. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *When billed annually

All 8x8 plans include team messaging, HD video conferencing, and screen sharing, you you can easily keep all your remote team members engaged and collaborative. And contact centers that have transitioned to remote work can still enjoy features like omnichannel routing, which allows your employees to engage with customers via chat, social media, text, and phone—all in one platform.

And of course, you can’t ignore the fact that 8x8 offers full internet phone services that start at just $15 per month. The company’s introductory plan even offers an auto-attendant to help transfer calls to the appropriate extension without you needing to pay a receptionist to answer the phone—a feature other internet and phone providers don’t offer except on upper-tier plans. 

That being said, 8x8’s plan upgrades are not the cheapest on our list. But considering the number of features you get for the price, we think it’s a good value for most companies looking for a VoIP phone system that offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Vonage: Best small business VoIP provider

Sure, Vonage has dealt with bad press and technical issues in the past. But these days, the service’s easy setup, impressive 99.999% uptime, and scalable business phone system options make it a top-notch VoIP choice for businesses with an eye toward growth.

Data as of post date.. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *Up to 99 users

As one of the earliest VoIP services on the market, Vonage is one of the most well-known PBX solutions currently available. And for good reason.

Vonage phone service can easily grow with your company, so you don’t have to worry about difficult transitions to new systems as your needs expand. Vonage integrates with everything from Salesforce to Slack, so you’re covered if your business ever outgrows its current customer relationship tools. And Vonage offers VoIP communications features that make the service easy to use even when you’re at home.

Vonage VoIP plans

Vonage plans offer great features for remote employees, including unlimited team messaging, unlimited calls, and unlimited business text messages on every plan. However, if video conferencing is important to your business, you’ll need to upgrade to the Premium plan.

We also like that Vonage offers 20 third-party integrations through the Vonage App Center, which is available even on the Mobile plan. This feature allows you to sync your VoIP phone system with select accounting, inventory, and CRM software so you can build out a completely interconnected business.

Furthermore, all Vonage customers get 24/7 customer support and IT solutions. Between that and all the other features included on Vonage’s basic phone system plans, it’s a great solution for small businesses that want advanced features at a budget price. And Vonage can definitely keep up when it’s time to upgrade your devices or add more lines, so your business can easily grow within your existing VoIP system.

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Other VoIP service providers for small businesses

• Grasshopper : Best for mobile businesses
• Verizon : Most reliable
• GoToConnect : Best features
• Phone.com : Cheapest plans
• Fusion Connect : Best customer service
• 1-VoIP : Most flexible
• Google Voice
• Mitel MiCloud Connect
• Microsoft Teams Phone
• Freshdesk Contact Center
• Intermedia Unite

Compare other VoIP providers for small business

Grasshopper: Best for mobile businesses

While Grasshopper may suffer from minor audio quality and transcription problems, the service is a major contender for businesses that operate from multiple locations. It’s easy to set up and easy to use, and it includes toll-free vanity numbers.

Now more than ever, businesses are discovering that they don’t need their employees to work in an office environment to be successful. But Grasshopper is an especially great VoIP software for mobile businesses like food trucks and pop-up stores.

Like many other VoIP phone services, Grasshopper offers iOS and Android apps that allow you to make and receive business calls on your cell phone. But unlike the competition, it allows you to customize call forwarding rules for each phone extension on your plan. That way, each of your employees or business locations can manage calls in whatever way works best for them.

Grasshopper VoIP plans

Grasshopper is great for small businesses, so why didn’t we name it our top small-business phone service? To be honest, we think Grasshopper is a little expensive compared to other options on the table. Grasshopper plans start at $26 per month (assuming you sign up for annual billing), which is pretty pricey considering you get only one business phone number with up to three extensions.

Grasshopper also offers fewer unified communications features than other PBX solutions. You also have to provide your own devices. That’s not a big deal if your employees are all working from home and using their cell phones or desktop phones to place calls. But it may pose a problem if you need to upgrade your office’s old analog phones.

Oh, and Grasshopper only offers service to businesses in the US and Canada.

On the upside, though, Grasshopper offers the same features across all its plans. Unlike other business VoIP solutions, you don’t have to upgrade your plan just to get business texting (for example). That means your business can enjoy the same high-end VoIP phone system features as a large company, even if you have only a couple of lines.

Right now, Grasshopper is offering $75 off when you sign up for a 12-month prepaid plan. That way, you don’t have to break the bank to stay connected. See Grasshopper’s home page for more details.

Verizon VoIP: Most reliable

Verizon is definitely one of the most expensive VoIP options on our list. But given the company’s reputation for reliable mobile solutions and full-service fiber-optic connections, it may be worth the extra cost for some businesses (assuming you live in an area with Verizon’s fiber-optic options, of course).

Data as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *With two-year contract

Verizon’s mobile solutions and ultra-fast fiber-optic internet connections (named Fios) have made the company the current gold standard when it comes to reliable telecommunications. And frankly, Verizon doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its bring-your-own-device (BYOD) VoIP service.

Verizon’s appeal ultimately comes down to its reliability. The telecommunications giant offers both fiber-optic and DSL connections nationwide. And say what you want about Verizon’s customer service—the company is one of the few internet and phone providers with a reputation for maintaining a state-of-the-art network with few to no dropped calls on its internet phone

Verizon VoIP plans

Unfortunately, that reliability doesn’t exactly come cheap. Verizon’s Business Digital Voice VoIP plan starts relatively high, and if you need more than 5 lines, you'll need to call them for additional information. Keep in mind that Verizon isn’t a budget choice for small businesses: it’s a reliability choice.

If you’re located in one of the 8 states (plus Washington, DC) that currently enjoy Verizon Fios service—which are mostly in the northeast—you’ll have access to one of the fastest internet connections available, which is perfect for VoIP. If your remote employees don’t have Verizon Fios internet or your business is in DSL-only country, the speed will be slower, but uptime is still guaranteed at 99.9%. Either internet option will support steady VoIP service, and if your business is more medium-sized than small, Verizon could add up to a better value in the long run (especially if you’re in Fios territory).

Since Verizon is a massive company, customer service ratings are in line with what you’d usually read in the comments section—meaning, people are far more motivated to complain than praise. Navigating Verizon’s bundling plans for businesses may be like a choose-your-own-adventure odyssey, but its support lines are segregated well, with separate contacts for small, medium, and larger businesses. Verizon also offers competitive SLAs (service level agreements) for quality and service and 24/7 VoIP phone services support via phone, email, and tickets.

Verizon Business Digital Voice isn’t necessarily budget friendly for a smaller business, but it should be attractive to medium and larger outfits that demand reliable uptime, or at least prefer an all-in-one telecom provider.

GoToConnect: Best feature-rich VoIP

GoToConnect offers all its features on every plan—the only difference is the number of users you get. That makes it easy to choose a feature-rich plan that’s easily customized to suit your business needs.

GoToConnect has nearly as many glowing reviews as the Radiohead discography, minus the pretentious lyricism. GoToConnect has established a positive industry reputation since its launch as Jive in 2006, thanks mostly to its interface simplicity, focus on small businesses, and large array of telephone features that are available to all pricing tiers.

GoToConnect VoIP plans

All these tiers deliver top-notch phone service features, which include the following perks:

• Call routing
• Do Not Disturb
• Custom hold music
• International calling
• Advanced ring strategies
• Call queues

In addition, GoToConnect plans deliver unlimited video conferencing for up to 250 participants. That makes company-wide meetings a lot easier while your employees are based from home. Plus, GoToConnect offers virtual international numbers in more than 50 countries—though you’ll have to pay a $19.99 setup fee, plus a charge per minute for the basic plan (you won't have to pay this in the upper tier plans if it's one of the 50 countries).

We also like that GoToConnect’s phone systems are easy to set up and come with US-based 24/7 phone, live chat, and email support (with specific help for small businesses, large businesses, government agencies, and education clients). Overall, it’s a simple and feature-loaded VoIP phone system that works for all kinds of businesses.

3 more VoIP providers reviewed by Business.org:

Curious to find out more about the small business phone systems near you? Answer a few questions to find out more about the options in your area.

Best VoIP for Small Business FAQ

Since VoIP is a relatively new technology that differs from traditional copper-line telephone systems, there may be a bit of a learning curve before you dive into adopting it for your business. Here are a few elemental points to get started.

RingCentral has the best VoIP due to it's fair pricing and wide range of features. It also offers price matching for plans with less than 50 lines—making it even more affordable. 

Yes, VoIP is good for small business. It is an easily scalable, cost-effective way to communicate.

A VoIP phone number is just like a regular telephone number, but it’s assigned to a user rather than a specific physical phone line.

When landline providers set up your telephone system, they map your new number to the physical copper connections that are hardwired into your home. But with VoIP phone systems, your number is assigned to your internet phone services account. That allows you to access your VoIP phone number (and make VoIP phone calls) from any device with an internet connection. That gives you the flexibility to use your VoIP phone number at home, in the office, or even from your smartphone.

If you’ll be switching to a VoIP business system, will you want to keep your current phone number? Most VoIP services offer number porting, which lets you transfer—or port—your number to a new service. Check for number porting in a VoIP service’s features; some will apply it for free, while others may charge a one-time fee.

A SIP (session initiation protocol) trunk carries voice, data, and video through a “trunk” that replaces copper telephone connections through the conventional PSTN (public switched telephone network), consolidating phone and internet service into a single digital line.

In plain English, SIP trunking allows you to physically disconnect from your phone company, opening the door for digital, internet-powered options (read: VoIP). And unlike hardwired telephone lines, digital lines allow you to scale your phone solutions as your business grows.

A private branch exchange (PBX) is the closed telephone network within a business, which employees share for outbound, inbound, and interoffice phone calls. VoIP systems manage PBXs off-site through cloud PBX hosting, eliminating the need for costly (and space-hogging) on-premise equipment and maintenance.

BYOD stands for  bring your own device . This term refers to employees conducting company business on personal laptops, tablets, and phones instead of on company-owned gear. Most VoIP companies offer BYOD features and solutions within their plans, either included or at additional cost. However, extra IT security layers and company guidelines for BYOD are on you.

As mentioned earlier, VoIP is entirely reliant on a high-speed internet connection—and is also entirely at the mercy of power outages. Telephone lines may be archaic, but they still work in a blackout—internet equipment and connections, not so much. If your business requires 24/7 uptime, make sure backup power sources are in place.

Unlike traditional telephone lines, VoIP numbers can’t be traced by 911 operators. This doesn’t mean you’d be helpless in case of a natural disaster or Sasquatch attack, however. Upon initial setup at a location, you simply need to enter your info manually through the system’s E911 (Enhanced 911) feature, which will attach a physical address to your VoIP number.

Just as a smartphone can do more than a landline phone, a VoIP phone system for business can perform all the expected tasks of standard business phone plans and then some. They’re a great choice for small businesses that need full functionality, and the VoIP systems we’ve reviewed include most, if not all, of the following features:

• Web-based system administration
• Mobile management (iOS and Android)
• Automated attendant
• Call forwarding
• Conference bridging
• Conference calling
• Call blocking
• Call waiting
• Call transferring
• Find Me/Follow Me
• Ring groups
• One-line sharing on multiple phones/devices
• Video conferencing
• Voicemail to Email (as audio file)
• Voicemail to Text
• Fax to Text (as PDF)

The takeaway: The Best VoIP providers

Landline providers are almost a thing of the past—like it or not, VoIP systems may soon be your only business phone choice. Moreover, VoIP phone systems may be the best method to adjust to an increasingly home-based work environment.

Fortunately, you have plenty of VoIP home phone and business telephone systems to choose from, with more digital features and affordable pricing than ever before. Even so, it’s an increasingly competitive market, so don’t sell yourself short—do your homework before settling on a small-business VoIP system.

Not convinced VoIP is right for your business? Check out our guide to how VoIP differs from other options, or click over to our summary of the different types of phone systems for business.

How VoIP delivers for small business owners

Just how crucial is Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in 2023? According to small-business owners, very —and getting more and more important all the time.

That’s good news for the VoIP industry, which saw an 8.3% growth in 2020 amid stay-at-home orders and public health concerns. 1 That growth should continue, and multiple studies project that the VoIP industry will earn a US market revenue of at least USD $55 billion in 2025. 2

Based on a survey conducted by Business.org, predictions of the VoIP industry’s continued expansion are right on track. Per our survey results, over 64% of surveyed small businesses added VoIP services during the pandemic. And a full 85% of surveyed business owners said VoIP kept their teams more connected throughout 2020.

Our survey results

So apart from the fact that business owners in 2020 switched to or added VoIP in increasing numbers, what else did we learn? For one, more small-business owners with one business location added VoIP this year than businesses with multiple locations—61% of respondents had businesses with one location while 39% had businesses multiple locations.

Additionally, surveyed business owners value VoIP for more than its connectivity:

• 84% said VoIP saves their business money
• 87% said VoIP improves their ability to offer better customer service
• 50% said they chose VoIP to help increase worker productivity

And our survey respondents also have a few concerns about the future of VoIP:

• 54.5% said they worried about AI chatbots using VoIP
• 60.5% said they worried about increased spam calls related to VoIP

VoIP will remain crucial in the post-pandemic business world

VoIP is an essential part of an ever-increasing number of businesses. And with global 5G availability on the horizon, VoIP is perfectly positioned to become the next multi-billion-dollar industry. We’re interested to see whether the VoIP industry hits that number in 2025—or, thanks to the new work-from-home norm, much sooner. 

Methodology

We partnered with Pollfish to conduct an anonymous survey of 650 small-business owners who currently use VoIP. Business.org analyzed the results and compiled this report. To learn more about Pollfish and how it organically finds respondents, check out its methodology .

Related content

• 11 VoIP Features Business Owners Consider a Must
• SIP vs. VoIP
• Cheapest VoIP Phone Service for Business 2023
• VoIP Phone Systems Explained: What to Know about Voice over Internet Protocol
• Best VoIP Service for Call Centers 2023

At Business.org, our research is meant to offer general product and service recommendations. We don't guarantee that our suggestions will work best for each individual or business, so consider your unique needs when choosing products and services.

• IBISWorld, “ VoIP Industry in the US ,” January 26, 2022. Accessed May 3, 2023.
• Global Market Insights, “ VoIP Market Size Forecast 2019-2025 | Industry Share Analysis Report ,” April 2021. Accessed May 3, 2023.

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