How to set up voicemail on iPhone

Voicemail is a helpful feature that lets people leave you messages when you can’t answer a call. If you're new to iPhone or just haven’t gotten around to setting it up, this guide will walk you through the steps. You’ll learn how to set up your voicemail, record a greeting, use Visual Voicemail, and fix common issues.

What you need before setting up voicemail

Before you get started, make sure:

• Your iPhone has a working cellular connection.
• Your carrier supports voicemail and Visual Voicemail.
• You’ve updated your iPhone to the latest version of iOS.

How to set up voicemail on iPhone

Set up voicemail for the first time

Here’s how to get started:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the Voicemail tab in the bottom-right corner.
3. Tap Set Up Now.
4. Create a voicemail password, then tap Done.
5. Re-enter your password to confirm, then tap Done again.
6. Choose Default or Custom for your greeting. If you pick Custom, you can record your own message.
7. Tap Save.

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Customize your voicemail greeting

If you didn’t record a greeting during setup, or want to change it later:

1. Open the Phone app and go to the Voicemail tab.
2. Tap Greeting in the top-left corner.
3. Select Custom to record a new greeting or choose Default to use your carrier’s standard message.
4. Tap Save when you’re done.

How to use Visual Voicemail

Visual Voicemail lets you see and listen to your messages without calling your inbox. Here’s what you can do with it:

Listen to voicemails

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the Voicemail tab.
3. Tap a message to play it. You can also pause, rewind, or fast forward using the playback controls.

Delete or save messages

• To delete a voicemail, swipe left on the message and tap Delete.
• To save a message, tap the Share button and send it to your email or Notes app.

Troubleshooting voicemail setup issues

If you run into problems, try these tips:

• Restart your iPhone. A simple restart can fix setup glitches.
• Check for carrier updates. Go to Settings > General > About. If an update is available, you'll see a prompt.
• Make sure voicemail is part of your mobile plan. Contact your carrier if you’re not sure.
• Reset your voicemail password. You can do this through your carrier’s support page or app.

Still having trouble? See the next section.

When to get professional help

If voicemail still isn’t working after trying the steps above, visit your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store. Our experts can check your iPhone for software or hardware issues and help you get voicemail working again.

FAQs

How do I know if voicemail is set up on my iPhone?

Open the Phone app and tap Voicemail. If you see messages or the option to record a greeting, it’s set up.

Why isn’t my voicemail working on iPhone?

Check your cellular connection, restart your phone, and make sure voicemail is included in your mobile plan. If that doesn’t help, contact your carrier.

How do I reset my voicemail password?

Most carriers let you reset your voicemail password through their app or support site. You can also call customer service for help.

Can I use Visual Voicemail on any iPhone?

Most iPhones support Visual Voicemail, but it depends on your carrier and plan. Check with your carrier if you don’t see it.

Do I need cellular service to use voicemail?

Yes. Voicemail and Visual Voicemail both require a working mobile connection.