How to Get a Second Phone Line for Business in 3 Easy Steps

Tired of mixing work calls with personal ones? You’re not alone. Many small business owners and team members struggle to keep things organized when everything runs through one phone. It can lead to missed messages, late replies, and confusion between personal and business contacts.

Using your personal cell phone for work also means you’re always “on,” even during off-hours. Without a clear separation, it’s hard to take a real break. On top of that, giving out your personal number to clients or customers can feel unprofessional and risky.

In this article, we’ll teach you how to get your own second phone line for business. You’ll learn what it can do, how it helps with everyday tasks, and the best business phone systems that will provide you with a second phone line, along with many more useful features.

Whether you’re running a business solo or with a team, this guide will help you take the next step toward better communication.

What Is a Second Phone Line for Business?

A second phone line for business is a separate number you use just for work. It runs on your phone or computer through an app, so you don’t need a second device.

This new number keeps your personal and business calls apart. It helps you stay organized, look more professional, and handle work calls without sharing your personal cell phone number.

When you get a second phone line for business, you can choose the type of number that fits your needs. Each type of number gives your business a different feel. You can choose the one that fits how and where you want to connect with callers.

Local Number

A local number has an area code from your city or region. It makes your business feel nearby and familiar to local callers. It’s a good choice if you want to create a business phone number that mainly serves a local area.

Toll-Free Number

A toll-free number starts with codes like 800, 888, 877, or 866. These numbers don’t charge your callers. They make your business look bigger and more professional. They’re great if you have customers from different states or regions.

Vanity Number

A vanity number spells out a word or name using the phone keypad. For example, 1-800-FLOWERS. These numbers are easy to remember and can help with branding.

What Does a Second Phone Line for Business Offer You?

Here are some key benefits of having a second phone line for business:

Clear Separation Between Work and Personal Life

When you get a separate phone line for your business, you also create a clear separation between your job and your personal life. You won’t get work calls on your personal cell phone during dinner or on weekends. This helps you set boundaries and avoid burnout.

A More Professional Image

Using a dedicated number for your business makes you look more serious and reliable. Callers won’t feel like they’re reaching someone on a personal line. Instead, they’ll get the impression that they’re contacting a real business or office.

Customizable Features That Fit Your Needs

Most platforms that offer you a second phone number come with customizable features. You can set up a custom voicemail, add call routing, and use other tools to handle your calls the way you want. This helps you stay organized and respond faster to callers.

Better Service for Your Contacts

With a second number, your service to customers or clients can improve. You won’t miss important calls or mix up personal and business messages. Everyone who contacts you gets a better and more focused experience.

Shared Access for Teams

Some second line apps allow multiple users to share the same number. This means your team can answer calls, send messages, or check voicemails even if you’re not around. It’s helpful when you want to give good service without being tied to your phone 24/7.

Easy to Use and Manage

You don’t need extra devices or complicated setups. Most second phone line services work through apps, so all you need is your phone or computer. It’s simple to manage, even if tech isn’t your strong point.

Call Quality That Feels Like an Office Line

Even though it runs on your phone, the call quality is often very good. It can feel like you’re using a desk phone in a real office. This matters when you want your calls to sound clear and professional.

One phone, two lines. Watch how Talkroute adds a second business number in minutes.

How to Get a Second Phone Line for Business With Talkroute in 3 Easy Steps

Need to set up a new business phone number? With Talkroute, you can quickly add a local number, toll-free number, or transfer your existing line in just a few steps.

Step 1: Sign up on Talkroute

Create your account by signing up with your email and password. Then, you can choose to create a new toll-free or local number, or transfer your existing business number to Talkroute. You can always add more numbers after checkout.

Step 2: Pick Your New Number

If you choose “New Toll Free Number,” Talkroute will suggest a sample number. You can go with that or search for other options, including different area codes. Want to see more? Click “More Options” and then “All” to view more toll-free and local prefixes.

Recommended reading:

Get a Toll Free Number for Business with Talkroute: A Quick Guide

If you want a new local number, select “New Local” and you’ll be taken to a page where you can search by area code, city, or zip code. Then, select your preferred number from the list.

If you choose “Keep Your Existing Number,” we’ll email you the instructions to transfer your current business number after checkout. You’ll also get a temporary number so you can start setting up and testing your Talkroute account right away.

Step 3: Access Your New Number in Your Dashboard

Once you’ve picked a number, choose a plan that fits your needs. Talkroute gives you the option to try any plan, from Basic to Pro, with no long-term commitment. Finish creating your account, and you’re all set!

Your new number will appear under your Virtual Phone Numbers tab. We’ll also send you a confirmation email when it’s ready to use.

Don’t mix business with personal. Learn how Talkroute gives you a dedicated work line.

Top 3 Providers of A Second Phone Line for Businesses

Here are three top providers that offer easy-to-use apps, helpful features, and flexible options to keep your work and personal calls separate.

1. Talkroute

Talkroute gives businesses a second phone line with powerful features. You can make calls, send texts, hold video meetings, and manage everything in one easy app.

Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the move, Talkroute keeps your team and customers connected using your existing devices.

Key Features

• Talk, text, and meet in one app – Handle calls, messages, and video meetings using one simple app on your phone or computer
• Call forwarding to any device – Send calls to your personal cell phone, office line, or desktop with custom ring settings
• Business texting with email alerts – Text from your business number and get message alerts sent straight to your inbox
• Video meetings with screen sharing – Host meetings with up to 100 people and share your screen or files with one click
• Smart voicemail and call routing – Check voicemail anywhere and send calls to the right person using custom call flows
• Easy extensions and menus – Set up extensions and menus to help callers reach the right team member or department quickly

Separate work and personal calls with ease. Try Talkroute’s second-line feature free today!

2. OpenPhone

Source: openphone.com

OpenPhone is a cloud-based phone system that brings calls, texts, and contact details into one shared space. It’s designed to help teams stay organized, respond faster, and manage communication in one place.

With features like shared numbers, call summaries, and built-in AI tools, OpenPhone gives teams the tools they need to support customers and stay connected without extra complexity.

Key Features

• AI-powered call handling with Sona – Sona answers calls 24/7, provides responses based on your business info, and captures important call details for follow-up
• Unified communication view – Calls, texts, voicemails, and recordings appear in one place to help teams keep track of customer conversations
• Shared numbers for team collaboration – Multiple team members can manage one number together, reply to messages, and join calls
• Built-in AI tools – OpenPhone AI offers automatic call summaries, transcripts, suggested contacts, and call tagging to save time
• Simple number setup and management – Users can quickly get local or toll-free numbers or port existing ones to match their business needs

3. RingCentral

Source: ringcentral.com

RingCentral is a cloud-based communications platform used by businesses worldwide. It brings together calls, messages, video meetings, and customer support tools in one system.

With built-in AI and strong security, it helps teams stay connected, work smarter, and manage customer interactions across devices and locations.

Key Features

• AI across calls, messages, and meetings – RingCentral’s built-in AI helps personalize interactions, provide real-time insights, and simplify tasks across all communication channels
• One system for employees and customers – Combines business phone features, video meetings, messaging, and contact center tools in one platform
• Secure and compliant – RingCentral meets global standards, including HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, and HITRUST for secure communications
• Flexible integrations and open APIs – Connects with over 300 tools and offers APIs to support custom workflows and business systems

Recommended reading:

Cloud-Based Call Center: Everything You Need to Know

5 Best Small Business Virtual Phone Systems

Keep Your Business Connected Without the Extra Hassle with Talkroute

Talkroute gives you everything you need to handle calls, texts, and meetings in one simple place. You do not need any new devices or complicated setups.

Just download the app on your phone or computer and start using a second number with features like call forwarding, voicemail, and business texting. It is an easy way to keep your personal cell phone number private while still staying available for work.

Whether you are at home, in the office, or out with a client, Talkroute helps you stay connected and organized. Route calls to the right person, check messages from anywhere, and meet with your team face-to-face using video. It is a phone system built for teams that want to work smarter and stay in sync.

Get your second business line up and running in minutes. Try Talkroute free!

FAQs About a Second Phone Line for Business

Can you get a second phone number for business?

Absolutely. You can get a second phone number for business without needing a second cell phone. Talkroute lets you add a dedicated business line to your existing mobile phone, so you can keep your personal number private and still receive business calls professionally. It’s an easy and affordable way for small business owners to manage work and personal life on one device.

How do I add a second phone line?

Adding a second phone line is simple with a virtual phone system like Talkroute. Just sign up for an account, choose a new business phone number (local, vanity, or toll-free number), and download the app to your mobile phone. You can then manage calls, text messages, voicemail, and more—all in one place. Talkroute also gives you features like call forwarding, custom greetings, and the ability to set business hours, so you’re in full control.

Should I have a second phone for my business?

You don’t need a second phone, just a second line. Using only one phone for personal and business use can blur the lines between your personal and professional life. A second business number from Talkroute helps you keep your business communications separate and more professional, while encouraging a proper work-life balance. You’ll avoid missed calls, stay connected with clients, and maintain a clear boundary between personal calls and business calls.

What is the best phone system for a small business?

Talkroute is the best phone system for small business owners. It’s a powerful, low-cost solution that lets you create a second line, route calls to your team, set business hours, and access features like call recording, business voicemail, and custom greetings. Whether you’re managing sales, customer service, or just trying to protect your personal number while maintaining a professional image, Talkroute gives you all the tools to run your business smoothly and professionally, risk-free.