Published : June 10, 2025
Key Overview:
On the recipient's end, there are several common reasons for “this number has calling restrictions”:
- Provider Problems: Issues with their mobile service provider, such as account suspension or network outages.
- Device Configuration: Settings on their phone, like call blocking or "Do Not Disturb," are active.
- Intentional Blocking: The recipient may have specifically blocked your phone number.
- Line Status: Their phone line might be busy with another call or temporarily out of service.
- Spam Identification: Your number could have been flagged as spam by their carrier.
- Activated Restrictions: The recipient might have enabled features to block certain types of calls.
Have you ever made a phone call only to be met with the message, “The number you have dialed has calling restrictions”? You must have been annoyed and wondering why your call is not going through. This message tends to come up when there’s an issue with your SIM card, device, service provider, or even the settings of the intended recipient.
In this blog post, we will go over what the error message itself means, and even more importantly, how to fix calling restrictions.
What Is “The Number You Have Called Has Calling Restrictions”?
When you hear the message “there is a calling restriction in the number you have dialed,” it indicates that your call may not be connected due to your phone line or restrictions on the recipient’s phone. These restrictions can stem from many sources, whether your cellular network, network service provider, settings on your device, or the recipient’s settings.
- Carrier Limitations: Your mobile provider may have set restrictions on your account or service.
- Blocked Number: The person you’re trying to reach may have blocked your number.
- Device Settings: Settings on your phone could be preventing certain calls from going through.
- Flagged as Spam: Your number might be flagged as spam by the recipient’s carrier, preventing the call.
- Call Restriction Feature: The recipient may have activated call restrictions, blocking certain calls from connecting.
- If you're dialing international numbers, double-check the country code to avoid call restrictions.
Knowing these causes can help you troubleshoot the issue and take the necessary steps to resolve it quickly.
6 Common Causes of Calling Restrictions on the Called Number
When you encounter the “The number you have dialed has calling restrictions” message, it’s often due to an issue on the recipient’s end. Below are the most common causes of phone calls being restricted:
1. Cellular Provider Issue
A cellular provider issue happens when the recipient’s provider blocks incoming calls. This could be due to account issues or network disruptions. The provider might also restrict calls in certain regions or during service outages. Often, the issue is temporary and can be fixed once the provider resolves it.
- Calls may be restricted if a network provider is experiencing an issue. 68% of mobile disruptions are due to service failures.
2. Recipient Device Settings
The recipient’s phone settings might be blocking your call. Many smartphones have built-in features to filter calls. Some users enable call blocking to avoid spam or unsolicited calls. Devices may also have a “Do Not Disturb” setting that prevents certain calls from connecting. The recipient can manually adjust these features.
3. Your Number May Be Blocked
If the recipient has blocked your number, your calls won’t connect. Blocking is often done to stop unwanted calls due to billing issues. This can happen if you are trying to contact the recipient frequently without success. Once blocked, the recipient will not receive any instructions about the efforts of your Call.
How to Call a Blocked Number On iOS and Android?
4. Out of Service or Busy Lines
When the recipient’s line is busy or out of service, your call won’t connect. Busy lines occur when the recipient is already on another call. If their phone is turned off or out of service, it cannot receive calls. These types of issues are often temporary and resolve once the line is free.
5. Number Regarded as Spam
If your number is flagged as spam, the recipient’s carrier may block your call. Carriers use spam detection tools to filter suspicious numbers. These tools automatically flag numbers that have been reported or are suspected of spam activities during network outages. If your number is blacklisted, it will not connect to recipients who have spam filters enabled.
- Use apps like Truecaller to check if your number is flagged as spam, which can help prevent call restrictions.
6. The Recipient Has Activated the Call Restriction Feature
The recipient may have enabled call restrictions on their phone or carrier account. These settings are often used to filter unwanted calls. For example, the recipient may only accept calls from contacts or restrict international calls. Call restriction features can prevent certain types of calls from reaching the recipient.
What Is a Restricted Call, and How to Block It?
Top 6 Common Causes of Calling Restrictions on Your End
While calling restrictions are often due to the recipient’s settings or service, sometimes the issue can be on your end. Several factors, from your provider to your device, can prevent your call from connecting. Below are common causes that could be restricting your ability to make calls.
1. Cellular Provider Issue
Your mobile provider may have placed restrictions on your account. This can happen due to unpaid bills or exceeded usage limits. The provider may also have temporary service outages or maintenance affecting your cellular data and calls. In some cases, your account may be suspended for non-payment or due to fraud alerts.
2. Your Device Settings
Your phone settings may be preventing calls from going through. Most devices have call-blocking features or options that filter incoming and outgoing calls. Some phones allow you to restrict calls from specific numbers or certain areas. In addition, if your phone has Do Not Disturb activated, it may block calls altogether.
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3. Network-related Problems
Network-related issues can disrupt your ability to call. The strength of the bad signal, especially in rural or crowded areas, may result in dropped calls. Sometimes, the network provider may experience a temporary disruption that prevents the call from connecting. These problems can also be caused by limited coverage in some places.
4. Incorrect Number Dialed
Dialing an incorrect number, even slightly, can result in calling restrictions. If you enter the wrong digits or miss a code, your Call will fail to connect. Many phones automatically find the wrong numbers and display an error message. It is crucial to ensure that the number is properly dialed to avoid this issue. It is important to test the number before making the calling.
5. Incorrect Area Code
Dialing the wrong field code can prevent your call from connecting, especially for long-distance or international calls. Each area code matches a specific geographical location. If you are calling outside your local area, be sure to include the correct area code. The resulting call to the wrong area code may not be completed, triggering a restriction message.
6. Check Your Current Cellular Plan
Sometimes, the issue lies with your current cellular plan. Some plans have restrictions on international calls or certain services. If your plan does not support certain call types, such as premium rate numbers, your call might be blocked. Additionally, if you’ve exceeded your monthly call limits, your provider may restrict outgoing calls.
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Top 6 Fixes / Troubleshooting for Calling Restrictions
If you’re facing calling restrictions, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue. By following these fixes, you can identify where the problem lies and resolve it quickly.
1. Verify The Dialed Number
Make sure the number you’ve dialed is correct. Even a small mistake can prevent the call. Double-check the area code and the number format. Confirm the number is valid, especially for international calls. Verifying the number is an easy first step.
2. Check Account Status (Paid Bills, Usage Limits, Plan)
Check your account status. Ensure your bills are paid and there are no restrictions. Some plans have usage limits, and exceeding them can block calls. Make sure your plan allows the type of call you’re making. Review your account details to confirm there are no issues.
3. Contact Your Mobile Service Provider
If the issue persists, contact the customer service of your mobile provider. They can check if there are any restrictions or service disruptions. Providers can confirm if your account has been restricted. Ask if there are any ongoing issues or outages. Your provider will give you the most accurate information.
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4. Review Device Settings (Call Restrictions on iPhone & Android)
Check your phone’s settings. Look for call-blocking features or Do Not Disturb settings. Review any third-party apps that may block outgoing calls. Ensure there’s no call-forwarding interference. Adjust your settings to allow the call to go through.
5. Check Network Coverage
Poor network coverage can prevent your calls. Check for signal strength on your phone. Move to an area with better coverage if needed. Network issues are often temporary and can be resolved with a stronger signal, but first, ensure you are not in airplane mode. Ensuring good reception is key to making successful calls.
6. Update Your Device Software
Make sure your device software is up to date. Outdated software can cause connectivity issues. Update your phone’s operating system for better performance. Software updates often fix bugs related to calls. An update may solve your calling restrictions.
How to Make a Private Call With Your Number [Android + iPhone]
Conclusion
The message “The number you have dialed has calling restrictions” can be frustrating, but it is fixable. The issue could be with your device, your network, or the recipient’s settings. Follow the steps in this blog to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Start by verifying the dialed number and checking your account status. Review your device settings and network coverage.
If the problem persists, contact your mobile provider for assistance. By understanding the causes and applying these fixes, you can get your calls connected again. Don’t let calling restrictions block your communication.
FAQs
1. How Do You See Restricted Numbers on Android?
On Andriod, restricted numbers may appear as blocked calls in your call history. Check your device settings for a blocked numbers list. Some phones show numbers blocked by call-blocking apps.
2. How Do You Know If Someone Blocked Your Number?
If calls go straight to voicemail without ringing, you might be blocked. You may also notice undelivered messages. An error message like “The number you have dialed has calling restrictions” indicates the same.
3. Does Announcement 19 Mean Blocked?
Announcement 19 usually means the call is blocked or restricted. This happens when the recipient’s phone can’t accept calls. It could be due to phone settings, account issues, or network disruptions.
4. Are there any third-party apps that can help remove call restrictions?
Apps like Truecaller and Hiya can identify and block spam calls. They can also tell if your number is flagged as spam, but can’t always remove provider or recipient restrictions.
5. Can I resolve this issue related to calling restrictions on my own?
Yes, start by verifying the dialed number and checking your account status. Review phone settings and network coverage. If the issue persists, contact your mobile provider.
6. How can I prevent future calling restriction messages?
Keep your phone settings configured properly. Pay bills on time to avoid service issues. Avoid behaviors that could flag your number as spam. Update your device regularly.
7. What Does Verizon Say When a Number Is Blocked?
Verizon will typically say, “The call cannot be completed as dialed.” You may also hear a busy signal or reach voicemail. Contact Verizon if you suspect you’ve been blocked.
8. How Do I Remove a Restricted Phone Number?
Check if the number is blocked in your device settings and unblock it. If it’s a service provider restriction, contact them for resolution. Clearing call history or updating settings can help.
Updated : June 11, 2025
Supriya Bajaj is a senior content developer with immense experience in the VoIP telephony domain. With a deep knowledge of VoIP systems and emerging technologies in the field, she provides insightful and targeted content. Known for simplifying complex topics and her thought-leadership articles, Supriya delivers actionable content for both technical and non-technical audiences.
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