Dial the full number. Make sure someone doesn’t actually answer the phone you are calling when it rings, though. Make sure you dial the area code with the number. [1] X Research source

When you hear your voicemail start, that’s when you should press either the star () or the pound (#) key. [2] X Research source For AT&T, Sprint, U. S. Cellular, and T-Mobile, press the star () key. [3] X Research source [4] X Research source Verizon, Bell Mobility and Virgin Mobile users should press the pound (#) key. [5] X Research source If you are using a different carrier, you can check its website or call customer service to be sure.

You will hear instructions to input your pin. Hit the pound key after you enter your pin. [6] X Research source Follow instructions on how to listen to your voicemail. It’s usually to push a certain number (like 1). That’s all there is to it. You should be able to hear your voicemail messages now.

Most carriers have detailed instructions for changing passcodes. For example, to change a T-Mobile passcode, hold down the “1” key, then press the star key, and then press number 5 to go into passcode security. Then press 1, and you will be able to change your passcode. [7] X Research source You can change your Sprint passcode online by choosing the my preferences tab and then the “things I can manage online” section. [8] X Research source You can reset your pin by calling the carrier if you have forgotten it or never set it up at all. Some sites allow you to do this online. [9] X Research source

For phones with AT&T, the default passcode is your phone number without the area code. [10] X Research source The pin is usually four digits.

This problem has been reported with different types of carriers and phones. Many experts suggest you fix this problem by calling your phone and leaving a voicemail yourself. Then delete the voicemail. [12] X Research source

There are services you can pay to leave a voicemail without a person’s phone ringing. [13] X Research source If your phone is dead, you can still check voicemail by following the steps above, even though the phone won’t ring.

On an iPhone, you need to make sure you do not have the “do not disturb” function enabled under settings. Just choose settings and then do not disturb. [14] X Research source Check whether your phone is in airplane mode. If it is, turn off airplane mode. Make sure you don’t have calls forwarding enabled on your device and that you aren’t outside your coverage area.