From landline to hosted number
Under the hood, there’s a lot going on so that on your side it feels simple. Here’s what happens from the moment you start signup until your number is fully hosted.
-
1
Start signup and submit your number.
Tell us which number you want to host, whether you prefer Basic or Box, and where you want calls to go. -
2
We handle the port.
We work with the underlying carriers to move your number over. Your existing service needs to stay active until the port completes. -
3
We confirm the cut-over date.
You’ll get an email with the scheduled date and time window when calls will start coming through Keep My Digits instead of your old provider. -
4
Your number is now hosted.
Once the port is complete, we send a final confirmation. At that point, you can safely cancel service with your old carrier.
During the port
- Most ports complete within a few business days, depending on the losing carrier.
- There is usually a short cut-over window. In many cases, callers never notice.
- If anything looks off during the transition, you can reach out and a human will help.
We’ll keep you updated by email so you’re never guessing where things stand.
What happens when someone calls
Once your number is hosted with us, every incoming call follows a simple path based on the plan and options you chose.
On the Basic plan
Calls to your hosted number are forwarded to the destination phone number you choose — usually your cell.
- Change where calls are forwarded at any time
- Keep using your cell like normal — no extra app required
- Optionally add Call Shield™ in front of the call to screen out robocalls
On the Box plan
Calls to your hosted number go directly to a dedicated voicemail box for that number.
- Use our AI-generated greeting or record your own
- Get an email each time someone leaves a voicemail
- Optionally add Call Shield™ before voicemail for extra filtering
How Call Shield™ fits into the call flow
Call Shield sits in front of your number as a quick challenge that separates real callers from automated systems.
- Callers hear a short message asking them to press a randomly chosen digit.
- Real people press the digit and continue to your forwarding or voicemail, just like normal.
- Most robocall systems can’t complete the challenge and are disconnected.
- Trusted contacts can be added to your Safe Caller List to skip the challenge.
Where the call goes next
- On Basic, the call continues on to the forwarding number you’ve chosen.
- On Box, the call goes into your voicemail box, where the caller can leave a message.
- You can enable or disable Call Shield per hosted number at any time from your account.
Porting & setup FAQs
How long does porting take?
Most ports complete within a few business days, but timing can vary based on the losing carrier and how they process requests. We’ll keep you posted throughout.
Will there be downtime?
There’s usually a short cut-over window when your number moves from one carrier to another. In many cases, callers never notice anything changed.
What do I need from my current provider?
Typically we’ll need the account holder name, service address, and a recent bill copy. We’ll let you know exactly what’s required during signup.
Can I move my number out later?
Yes. As long as your account is in good standing and the new provider supports the port, we’ll help you move the number out.