How to Turn Off Voicemail on Any UK Network
The Universal Method: ##002#
The quickest way to turn off voicemail on almost any UK mobile network is to dial ##002# and press call. This is a standard GSM code that cancels all conditional call forwarding — including the divert to voicemail when you do not answer, when your phone is busy, or when it is unreachable.
After dialling the code you will see a confirmation message on screen. From that point, unanswered calls will simply ring out and you will still receive missed-call notifications.
Network-Specific Methods
Some networks provide their own short codes or text commands. Use the table below to find the right method for your provider:
| Network | Turn Off | Turn On |
|---|---|---|
| EE | ##002# or ##61# | Dial 150, follow prompts |
| Vodafone | Dial 1210 | Dial 1211 |
| O2 | Dial 1760 | Dial 1750 |
| Three | Text VOICEMAIL OFF to 30044 | Text VOICEMAIL ON to 30044 |
| giffgaff | ##002# | **004*443*11*20# then call |
| Sky Mobile | ##002# | Dial 222, follow prompts |
| Tesco Mobile | ##002# | Dial 150 |
| iD Mobile | ##002# | Dial 999 (voicemail line) |
| SMARTY | ##002# | **004*+447782333222*11*20# |
Why Turn Off Voicemail?
There are several good reasons to disable voicemail on your mobile:
- Missed-call notifications instead: Without voicemail, callers hear ringing until the call ends. You still see who called and can ring them back immediately.
- Avoid roaming charges: When you travel abroad, incoming calls that divert to voicemail can incur charges even if you do not listen to the message. Turning voicemail off before you fly removes this risk.
- Reduce spam messages: Nuisance callers sometimes leave voicemails. Disabling the service means fewer unwanted messages to clear.
- Prefer other channels: Many people now communicate via WhatsApp, Teams or email. If callers can reach you digitally, voicemail may be unnecessary.
What Happens When Voicemail Is Off?
Callers will hear your phone ring for the standard duration (usually 15–30 seconds) and then the call will end. They will not hear a greeting or be able to leave a message. You will receive a missed-call notification on your handset so you know who tried to reach you.
How to Turn Voicemail Back On
If you change your mind, use the network-specific reactivation code from the table above. On most networks, voicemail will be restored within a few seconds and callers will be able to leave messages again.
Business Users: Consider a Smarter Alternative
Instead of basic voicemail, a hosted VoIP system delivers voicemail-to-email, call routing and auto-attendant features that keep your business responsive. Explore HyperCloud Hosted VoIP or get a free quote.
