Establishing a US phone number while based in the UK is a strategic move for businesses looking to expand into the North American market or for individuals who need a reliable way to manage international communications. By adopting a US area code, users can bypass high roaming charges and build instant credibility with US-based clients.
Modern cloud-based technology has made this process more accessible than ever, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards or US residency.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know, from understanding number formats to choosing the right method based on your needs.
✨ Key Takeaways
- You can choose between VoIP, non-VoIP, or porting methods depending on whether your focus is on communication, 2FA, or long-term use.
- A virtual US number lets you sign up for apps and services without using your personal number.
- Sign up with a VoIP provider, select a US area code, complete setup and verification to activate your US phone number.
- Free apps like TextNow can help you get started quickly, though they come with limitations.
Who needs a US phone number in the UK?
Many people need a US phone number from the UK, whether it’s to stay connected with family back in the home or to break into the American market, including:
1. Expats and Americans settled in the UK
For many Americans living in the UK, keeping a US number is about staying reachable and is also somewhat of a logistical necessity. Many US-based banks, credit card companies, and government services still require a domestic number for identification verification. Dropping the US number often means missed calls, locked accounts, and a whole lot of sorry, we only serve US number headaches.
2. UK businesses expanding to the US market
First impressions matter, and nothing signals we’re local to an American customer like a familiar US number. UK businesses entering the US market use a US phone number (like a 212 or 310 area code) to build trust, handle customer inquiries without international call barriers, and appear established, without even setting foot on American soil.
3. Freelancers and remote workers with US clients
Many US-based clients hesitate to dial international numbers, and some project management or invoicing platforms outright require one. This can happen due to various reasons, including international calling rates or differences in business hours. Having a US number allows you to provide a local point of contact for your US-based clients, keeping communication friction-free.
4. Anyone needing to verify a US app or service
From streaming platforms to financial tools, a surprising number of US apps require a US phone number for sign-up or 2FA (two-factor authentication). Without one, you’re simply locked out. There are no workarounds or exceptions. With a virtual US number, you’ll bypass regional restrictions and secure your account.
US phone number format
Understanding the US phone number format is essential before you get a US phone number, especially if you plan to use it for business calls, registrations, or 2FA.
Standard US phone number format follows a fixed structure based on the North American Numbering Plan. The full format looks like: +1 (AAA) BBB-CCCC.
US phone number example: +1 (701) 667-8241
Here,
- +1 = US country code
- 701 = Area code (represents a geographic region, North Dakota)
- 667-8241 = Local subscriber number
Sometimes, you may also see it written without brackets:
- +1 701-667-8241
- +1 (701) 667-8241 (compact format for apps and systems)
If you’re calling a US phone number from the UK, dial +1, the USA country code, followed by the area code and then the remaining 7-digit numbers. Example: +1 701 667 8241
If you already have a US number and are calling another US number, then you can ditch the +1 and just dial the rest of the numbers like 701 667 8241
Types of US phone numbers
There are a variety of US number options to choose from, including local, toll-free, or vanity, each serving different purposes:
1. Local numbers
Local US numbers are assigned to specific geographic regions within the US and are identified by a three-digit area code (e.g., 212 for New York or 310 for Los Angeles). These numbers are best for establishing a local presence in a specific city.
Businesses targeting customers in specific regions of the US can use local phone numbers to build trust with residents by showing a familiar regional code on the caller ID.
2. Toll-free numbers
A toll-free number is a telephone number with a distinct three-digit code that allows callers to reach businesses without incurring charges. The recipient, typically a business, pays for the incoming call. Businesses in the UK or anywhere can get US toll-free numbers with special prefixes such as 800, 888, 877, or 866.
Example: +1 (800) 685-2145
These numbers are widely used by companies offering customer support or sales lines.
3. Vanity numbers
Vanity numbers are custom phone numbers that spell out words and are easy to remember. Businesses use these numbers to enhance brand recognition, improve customer recall, and increase call volume in marketing campaigns.
Example: +1 (800) FINELINE
4 Best ways to get a US phone number in UK
Obtaining a US phone number while residing in the UK is a practical solution for maintaining business operations or staying in touch with contacts without high roaming fees.
Here are the four best methods to get a US phone number in UK:
Method 1: VoIP / Virtual number providers
If you want a US phone number in UK without dealing with SIM cards or physical carriers, VoIP and virtual phone number providers are the most practical route.
VoIP/ Virtual numbers use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to route calls and messages over the internet rather than through a traditional cellular tower. Users can manage their US presence directly through a web browser or a dedicated mobile or desktop application.
Key features
- Local & toll-free selection: Users can choose specific area codes or professional toll-free prefixes to match their specific needs.
- Unified callbox: This feature centralizes all interactions, including calls, SMS, and voicemails, into a single interface.
- Call forwarding & routing: Incoming calls can be instantly forwarded to a UK mobile or landline, ensuring no calls are missed.
- Device flexibility: Use your business phone number on mobile devices, tablets, desktops, or PCs.
Pros and Cons
| ✔️Pros | ❌Cons |
| Instant setup without physical SIM cards or hardwares | Call quality depends highly on the bandwidth of the internet connection |
| Scalable for personal and business use | Some platforms may not fully support all 2FA services |
| Highly affordable with monthly and annually subscriptions | Premium features are often locked behind expensive tires or add-ons |
Step-by-step method to get a US number with KrispCall
Step 1: Sign up
Go to the KrispCall website and create your account using your email address.
Step 2: Choose a subscription plan
Pick a plan based on your needs. Even the basic KrispCall plan, Essential, gives access to virtual numbers.
Step 3: Select a US virtual number
Choose the USA from the list of over 100 available countries, pick your preferred area code, and number type.
Step 4: Complete the purchase
Complete the payment process and submit any necessary documents to verify your account and activate the number.
Other VoIP Providers
Alongside KrispCall, here are a few other VoIP providers that can help you get a US phone number from the UK.
1. Dialpad
Dialpad is a cloud-based communication platform built with businesses in mind. It combines calling, messaging, and video meetings with strong AI features, including real-time call transcription and post-call summaries. It’s a capable choice for UK teams that need a professional US presence with some smart automation built in.
2. Hushed
Hushed takes a simpler, more personal approach. It’s a private phone number app designed for individuals who need a secondary number quickly. It’s particularly handy for one-off verifications, short-term projects, or anyone who values privacy above all else.
3. Sonetel
Sonetel caters to both individuals and small businesses seeking a cost-effective way to obtain a US phone number. Its free plan is among the more generous in the space, offering a US number at no cost if you’re willing to use its chat widget. For budget-conscious freelancers or startups just testing the US waters, it’s a practical starting point.
Method 2: Free US number apps (Best Budget Option)
If you’re not ready to commit to a paid plan or simply need a US number for occasional use, free apps are a perfectly reasonable starting point. Several platforms let you claim a US phone number at no cost, with basic calling and texting included.
But there are always some limitations, whether that’s restricted features, ads, or geographic access issues.
Popular apps
1. Google Voice
Google Voice is one of the most well-known free options out there. It gives you a real US number that can be used for calls, texts, and voicemail, all tied to your Google account. The quality is reliable, the interface is clean, and it integrates neatly with other Google services.
The significant drawback for UK users, however, is that Google Voice officially requires a US-based phone number to sign up, making it tricky to access from abroad.
2. TextNow
TextNow offers a free US number with unlimited calls and texts over Wi-Fi, making it a solid pick for freelancers or remote workers. It is simple to set up and works on both mobile phones and desktops. The free tier, however, is ad-supported, and call quality can dip depending on your connection, but for the price, it’s hard to argue with.
3. Dingtone
Dingtone is a calling and texting app that provides a second phone number for calling and texting without a SIM card. It runs on a credit-based system, where you earn free credits by completing in-app offers or watching ads, and use those credits to make calls and send texts. It’s not the most polished experience, but for anyone who needs a functional US number quickly, Dingtone is a practical service provider option.
Pros and cons of using free apps
| ✔️Pros | ❌Cons |
| Zero upfront cost; ideal for casual or one-time use | Limited features compared to paid VoIP services |
| Quick setup with no lengthy onboarding | Some apps (like Google Voice) are hard to access outside the US |
| Excellent for short-term projects or one-off transactions that don’t warrant a paid, dedicated line. | Not suitable for professional or high-volume use |
Method 3: Non-VoIP number
VoIP numbers are known as versatile, easy-to-use numbers, but they often get flagged by various systems and won’t let verification to go through. A non-VoIP, however, is tied to a real physical SIM or carrier, which means it passes the verification checks that VoIP numbers routinely fail.
Why it matters
Most people don’t realize there’s a difference between VoIP and non-VoIP numbers until they’re already stuck. Platforms that handle sensitive financial data or identity verification are deliberately designed to reject internet-based numbers as a fraud-prevention measure. A non-VoIP US number mimics a legitimate, carrier-assigned line, which is exactly what these platforms are looking for.
Required for:
- US banks: Institutions like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo require a verifiable US number during account setup and for ongoing transaction alerts.
- Payment apps: Platforms like Venmo, Cash App, and Zelle are notoriously strict about number authenticity and will block VoIP numbers at the registration stage
- Strict verifications: Any service running carrier-level number lookup checks, including certain crypto exchanges, brokerage accounts, and government portals
Pros and cons
| ✔️Pros | ❌Cons |
| Passes strict carrier-level verification checks that block VoIP numbers | Carry a premium price compared to standard virtual numbers |
| Consistent call quality and higher security against intercepting or hacking | Difficulty switching across devices or scaling rapidly |
| Easily functions in areas without internet access | Lacks advanced virtual capabilities like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, etc. |
Pricing
Non-VoIP numbers generally cost more than standard virtual numbers. A single-use number for one OTP verification generally costs anywhere between $0.50 and $2.00, depending on the provider and the target platform. Some services charge slightly more for numbers verified against stricter platforms like banks or crypto exchanges.
Monthly rental fees for non-VoIP numbers can cost around $60 and more. Users should also expect additional carrier-specific verification fees or slightly higher subscription tiers to cover the increased reliability and compatibility of these carrier-grade numbers.
How to set up
Getting a non-VoIP US number with KrispCall is simple. Just follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Log in to KrispCall
If you already have a KrispCall account, just log in to your dashboard. But if you are new, first sign up, then log in.
Step 2: Choose your plan
Among the three subscription plans, choose one that’s ideal for your business
Step 3: Go to the dashboard
From the dashboard, you can get a non-VoIP number in two ways:
- Go to the Settings ->click on non-VoIP number -> check the box for payment clearance -> click on Request Number
- Click the purchase number button (+) on the side of Numbers -> select non-VoIP (USA) -> check the box -> click on Request Number
Step 4: Wait for the verification
After verification is complete, your non-VoIP number (USA) is ready to receive unlimited OTPs.
Method 4: Port your existing US number
If you already have a US number, porting it is one of the most practical ways to keep using it after relocating. Instead of canceling your line and starting over, you can transfer it to a VoIP provider and continue using it as a virtual number.
How it works
The process starts by requesting a number port from your chosen VoIP provider. You submit your current number along with account details from your carrier. Once the request is approved, the number is transferred from your carrier to your desired VoIP platform.
Do not cancel your previous carrier service until the porting is complete. This usually takes a few days, depending on the provider and verification process.
After the transfer is complete, your number becomes cloud-based. You can access it through mobile apps, desktops, or web dashboards. This allows you to make and receive calls, send messages, whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere.
Why it’s useful
Keeping your existing number means you retain your digital identity. Contacts, clients, and services that already have your number can still reach you without interruption. This is especially helpful if your number is linked to important accounts, business communications, or long-term relationships.
It also saves you from the hassle of updating your number across multiple platforms. Banking apps, subscriptions, and online services often require verification when details change. By continuing with the same number, you avoid repeated verification steps and maintain uninterrupted access to your accounts.
VoIP vs Non-VoIP numbers
Choosing between VoIP and a non-VoIP number depends entirely on what you need the number to do. Both give you a US phone number, but they work differently and serve very different purposes.
Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which one fits your situation:
| Feature | VoIP Number | Non-VoIP Number |
| Cost | Generally lower, a monthly subscription or pay-as-you-go | Generally higher, per-use or short-term rental |
| Setup time | Minutes or hours, fully online, no hardware needed | Minutes or 1 or 2 business days, assigned instantly via the provider dashboard |
| Physical SIM needed? | No | No, but they are tied to a real carrier infrastructure |
| Accepted by US banks? | Rarely, most banks actively flag and reject VoIP numbers | Yes, passes carrier-level verification checks |
| App and service verification | Works for most apps; may fail on stricter platforms | Works on all platforms, including high-security ones |
| Business Calling Features | Extensive; Call routing, IVR, voicemail, analytics, and more | None; Not designed for ongoing calls or communication |
| CRM integrations | Yes. Most VoIP providers integrate with tools like HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zoho | No. Single-purpose verification tool only |
| Team collaboration | Yes, support multi-user access, shared inboxes, and call transfers | No, single-user, single-purpose |
| Best for | Businesses, freelancers, remote workers, and everyday US communication | Banking, payment apps, OTPs, and strict one-time verifications |
Which method should you choose?
At this point, you’ve seen multiple ways to get a US phone number in UK. The right choice depends on how you plan to use it.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
For business calls & CRM
For business calls & CRM, choosing a VoIP number is the logical choice. A VoIP setup gives you flexibility, scalability, and call management tools. It works well for handling client communication and integrating with CRM systems.
For US bank verification
For US bank verification, choose a non-VoIP number because a carrier-backed number is more reliable for strict platforms. If your focus is on 2FA, banking, or payment apps, non-VoIP solutions tend to have higher acceptance.
For free/temporary use
For temporary use, opt for free apps. Free apps are suitable for short-term needs like testing services or casual communication. They offer a quick way to get a US number without an upfront cost.
Moving from the US
If you are moving away from the US, porting is the best way to keep using your number. Porting keeps everything intact, from your contacts and accounts to your identity. It’s the smoothest transition if you already have a US number.
What to watch out for
Choosing the right method is only part of the process. A few common mistakes can lead to issues later.
- Using VoIP numbers for banking: Many financial platforms detect VoIP numbers and may reject them during verification. This can block access to important services.
- Relying on free apps for long-term use: Free numbers often expire or get recycled. This creates risks if the number is linked to accounts or ongoing communication.
- Choosing random area codes: Area codes influence trust. A mismatched or unfamiliar code can confuse US customers or reduce response rates.
- Ignoring compliance for business calls: Regulations around calling and messaging vary. Failing to follow them can lead to restrictions or penalties, especially for business use.
Why KrispCall stands out for UK users?
KrispCall stands out for UK users who need a reliable US number due to many reasons, including:
1. One free US/UK number per user included
KrispCall gives every user a local/mobile number in the UK or a single local number in either the USA or Canada upon signing up for free. This is useful if you’re just starting out and want to test how a US phone number from UK works before scaling.
2. Unified Callbox – everything in one place
All your calls, messages, and contacts are managed through a single dashboard. This makes it easier to stay organized, especially when handling multiple conversations across regions.
3. Advanced call center features
KrispCall includes features like IVR, call queuing, call forwarding, call recording, and analytics. These features offer support teams the ability to communicate in a structured way without relying on multiple tools.
4. Built-in AI features
KrispCall includes advanced AI-powered capabilities like AI Copilot for automated call transcriptions, summaries, and reply generation. It also provides actionable insights to track team productivity and improve customer experience.
5. 24/7 Customer support
KrispCall offers round-the-clock 24/7 customer support, helping you work across time zones. When something goes wrong, you’ll get timely help without waiting till morning to get it sorted.
6. Cost-effective & scalable
KrispCall’s pricing is structured to grow with you rather than penalize you for scaling. Whether you’re an individual or a growing team, you can easily expand your setup without switching platforms.
Wrapping up
Getting a US phone number in UK is no longer complicated. With the right method, you can set up a number in minutes and start using it for calls, messages, or verification. Whether you choose a VoIP provider, a non-VoIP option for 2FA, or a simple app for temporary use, each approach fits a different need.
The key is to match the method with your goal. Business users benefit from feature-rich VoIP platforms, while banking and secure access require carrier-backed numbers. Take a moment to choose wisely, and you’ll have a reliable way to get a US phone number from the UK that works exactly how you need it to.
