Blocking a number on Verizon takes less than a minute from your phone

You can block a number directly on your Verizon phone without paying extra or calling customer service. The method depends on whether you have an iPhone or Android device, but both let you block from the recent calls list, a text message, or the contacts app. Once blocked, that number cannot reach you by call or text, and they will not know they are blocked.

Verizon also offers a paid service called Call Filter that blocks spam and scam calls automatically, but the basic blocking feature built into your phone works for any number you choose and costs nothing.

Key Takeaways

  • iPhone users can block a number by opening the Phone app, finding the number in recent calls, swiping left, and tapping Block This Caller.
  • Android users can open the Phone app, press and hold the number in recent calls, and select Block Number from the menu.
  • You can also block a number from a text message by opening the conversation, tapping the contact name at the top, scrolling down, and selecting Block This Caller.
  • Blocked numbers cannot call or text you, and Verizon does not charge for this basic blocking feature.
  • If you want automatic spam blocking without managing individual numbers, Verizon Call Filter is a separate paid service that screens calls before they reach you.

Blocking from your recent calls list on iPhone

Open the Phone app and tap the Recents tab at the bottom. Find the number you want to block and swipe left across it. A red Delete button and a Block This Caller button will appear. Tap Block This Caller. The number is now blocked.

If you want to unblock the number later, go back to Recents, swipe left on the same number, and tap Unblock This Caller. You can block as many numbers as you need this way.

Blocking from your recent calls list on Android

Open the Phone app and tap the Recents tab. Press and hold the number you want to block until a menu appears. Select Block Number. A confirmation message will show that the number is blocked.

To unblock, press and hold the same number again and select Unblock Number. The process is the same whether you are blocking a call or a text message number.

Blocking a number from a text message

If the unwanted contact came through text instead of a call, you can block them from the Messages app. Open the conversation with that number, then tap the contact name or number at the top of the screen. On iPhone, scroll down and tap Block This Caller. On Android, tap the three dots menu and select Block Number.

This method works the same way as blocking from recent calls — the number cannot reach you by text or call after you block it.

Blocking a contact you already have saved

If the number is already in your contacts, open the Contacts app, find the person, and tap their name. On iPhone, scroll to the bottom and tap Block This Caller. On Android, tap the three dots menu and select Block Number. You can still see the contact in your phone, but they will not be able to reach you.

This is useful if someone you know is harassing you and you want to keep their information saved but prevent them from contacting you.

What happens when you block a number

When you block a number on your phone, calls and text messages from that number go nowhere. They do not reach your voicemail, and you do not see a notification. The person calling or texting does not receive a message saying they are blocked — the call or text simply fails on their end, and they may assume your phone is off or you are not available.

Blocking is permanent until you unblock the number. If you block someone by mistake, you can unblock them using the same steps you used to block them, and they will be able to reach you again immediately.

Verizon Call Filter for automatic spam blocking

If you receive many spam or scam calls and do not want to block each number individually, Verizon offers Call Filter as a separate service. The basic version is free and shows you the caller ID for suspected spam calls. The premium version costs a few dollars per month and automatically blocks spam and scam calls before they reach you.

Call Filter works differently from manual blocking because it screens calls based on patterns and known spam numbers rather than your personal block list. You can use both — your manual blocks and Call Filter together — for more protection. To set up Call Filter, open the My Verizon app, go to Settings, and look for Call Filter options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I block a number if I do not have it saved in my contacts?

Yes. You can block any number from your recent calls or from a text message, even if you have never saved it. You do not need the person's name or contact information — just the phone number.

Will the person know I blocked them?

No. They will not receive a notification that they are blocked. Their call or text will simply fail, and they may think your phone is off or you are unavailable. There is no way for them to know for certain that you blocked them.

Can I block a number from my computer or online account?

No. Blocking must be done from your phone using the Phone app or Messages app. Verizon does not offer a way to manage your block list from the My Verizon website or app. You have to use your device's built-in blocking feature.

What if I block someone and they call from a different number?

Blocking one number does not block other numbers that same person might use. You would need to block each number separately. If someone is harassing you from multiple numbers, contact Verizon customer service or local law enforcement for additional options.

Can I block international numbers?

Yes. You can block any number, including international numbers, using the same steps. The blocking feature works the same way regardless of where the call or text originates.