Table of Contents
Is Paying $10 for Google Voice Starter a Terrible Mistake for a One-Person Business?
Google has now opened its Google Voice Starter plan to more people. Before, you needed a business Workspace account to sign up. Now, anyone in the United States with a regular @gmail.com account can buy it. This is great news for individuals and small business owners who have wanted these features for a long time.
The plan costs ten dollars each month, plus any local taxes. This paid plan gives you several key features that the free version of Google Voice does not offer.
Upgraded Calling Features
For the monthly fee, you get a business-ready phone system without needing a full Workspace subscription. This is a solid option for anyone who wants a dedicated business number that works through their personal Gmail account.
- Direct Google Support: You can contact Google for help instead of only using community forums.
- Better Call Controls: While on a call, you can easily transfer the call, add a third person, put someone on hold, or record the conversation. You can record both incoming and outgoing calls, but you must still follow your state’s laws on call recording.
- Bring Your Own Number: You can move an existing landline or mobile number to your Google Voice account at no extra cost.
- No Linked Phone Needed: The paid plan does not require you to connect and verify a personal phone number, which is a necessary step for free accounts.
Who Is This Plan For?
This plan is a good fit for people who run small operations. Think of a one-person business, a contractor, or a freelancer who needs a stable, professional phone number. It is also useful for any individual who simply wants better calling features without the hassle of setting up a complete business account.
Important Limitations to Consider
While the Starter plan adds many useful tools, there are a few things it does not change. Keep these points in mind before you decide to upgrade.
- You can only have one Google Voice number per Gmail account.
- Your name will not show up on the other person’s caller ID. They will only see your phone number.
- The same strict rules against sending mass text messages apply to this plan.
- Some services may not send two-factor authentication (2FA) codes to your Google Voice number because it is a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number.
Google recently added support for desk phones, so you can now use certain Poly brand phones if you prefer physical hardware. A simple record button was also added to the call screen. For those on the free plan, an “Upgrade” button should appear on the Google Voice website soon, making it easy to switch if you choose to. The free version of Google Voice will continue to work as it always has.