FAQs
What is Ooma?
Ooma provides free and low cost home and business internet phone services using high-speed Internet to provide advanced features and connected services never before possible.
What do I need for the Ooma system to work?
All you need is a high-speed Internet connection (cable, DSL or fiber-optic), a regular home phone and a desire to save money.
What about a phone number? How do people reach me?
When you register your Ooma device online, you will get to pick a new phone number in most any area code in the US (except Alaska). Go to www.ooma.com to check if we have a number available near you.
If you would like to keep your current phone number, do not disconnect your current phone service. Select a new temporary number for your Ooma service and submit a request to Ooma to port your current number to your Ooma service. This process usually takes a week or two. Once your number has been ported you may cancel your old phone service.
Due to the high cost of Hawaii phone numbers, numbers in the 808 area code carry a surcharge of $29.99/year per number. This fee is waived for one 808 phone number if you subscribe to Ooma Premier. To activate your Ooma system with a Hawaii phone number, please contact Ooma support.
Is there a maximum amount of minutes per month?
Like all other “unlimited services” such as cell phone data plans and VoIP phone services, we have a reasonable use policy with a limit of 5000 minutes per month for outbound calling. We enforce this on a case by case basis in the event that a subscriber is clearly abusing the service (i.e. call centers, commercial purposes, etc.).
You can learn more about this at the Ooma blog.
Is the Ooma system difficult to install and operate?
Our patent-pending auto-configuration technology makes set-up as painless as possible. Most customers are up and dialing in less than 15 minutes. Using the Ooma system is even easier! Use your existing home phones just like always, only now you don’t have to worry about a phone bill!
How does Ooma compare with other VoIP services?
Ooma is a standalone device that does not require a computer. There is no software to install and no need for a headset. Ooma replaces your current phone service and delivers clear, landline quality calling over your existing phone and high-speed Internet connection. Ooma will make your phone bill a thing of the past and save you hundreds of dollars per year over other phone/VoIP services.
Do you support 911 calls?
Yes. Ooma provides E911 service where supported. We will collect your address when you register your Ooma device online, and send it to emergency response personnel when you dial 911. Since Ooma works over your Internet connection, you will need to call from a mobile phone if your Internet connection is down. If you’re concerned about relying on your Internet for phone service, we’ve built the Ooma system to work with a landline back-up. In this case, your 911 calls will always be routed over your landline.
Do the people I call need to own an Ooma device for the calls to be free?
Nope. Unlike some other services, Ooma lets you call anyone, at any number, anywhere in the U.S. without charge.
Do I need to leave my computer on to use Ooma?
No, Ooma is a standalone, low-power, always-on device that works independently of your computer. This saves you from the hassle of installing anything on your computer and from having to leave your computer turned on to make and receive calls. That alone could save you up to $20 per month in energy costs!
Can I use the Ooma system internationally?
The Ooma system can be used anywhere there is a high-speed Internet connection. Regardless of where you use it, calls to the US will be free and calls outside the US will be subject to low-cost international rates. If you plan to use the device overseas, be sure to use a phone that meets US standards, and be aware that the power supply that comes with the Ooma Hub is built for US power specifications. Also, if you choose to install and use the Ooma system outside the US, you’ll be solely responsible for compliance with international laws and subject to all associated fees, taxes, tariffs, and legal penalties.
Can I keep my current phone number?
In most cases, yes, Ooma can transfer (port) your existing phone number to Ooma. Normally there is a one-time processing fee of $39.99, but if you sign-up for an annual subscription to Ooma Premier ($119.99/yr), we’ll waive the porting fee. To confirm that your number can be transferred, go to www.ooma.com/products/port.
Please note that porting typically takes up to three weeks and you must keep your current phone service until the transfer is complete.
Can I call anywhere in the U.S. for free?
Ooma allows you to make local and long-distance calls within the 50 states for free. A few exceptions apply: Ooma does not support 900 numbers and phone chat services. Directory assistance (411) calls will be charged to your prepaid calling account and cost $0.99 per call. Pay only applicable taxes and fees. Federal universal service charges, state and local taxes, fees & surcharges and regulatory and compliance fees are billed monthly and are subject to change. To determine the specific charges in your area, go to /legal/rates/.
Do I need to use a headset or use a special phone?
Ooma works with your existing corded or cordless home phones. Use your phone exactly like before – only now you don’t have to worry about the bill!
Can you call 988 for help in a mental health crisis?
Yes, Ooma phone service supports calling or texting the three-digit number—988—to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the United States and the Suicide Crisis Helpline in Canada.