### Answer --- This "phone number already exists" error typically occurs in a few scenarios: 1. The number is linked to another account If the number was previously used in a different Retell workspace/account, it needs to be removed from that account first before you can add it to your current one. [(1) ]() 2. The number got stuck after deletion If you recently deleted the number and are trying to re-add it, sometimes it can get stuck in the system. This has been reported as a caching issue that may require engineering support to resolve. [(2) ]() 3. The number was imported through another platform If the number was previously imported via a wrapper through another platform (like Thinkrr or similar) , it may not be fully deletable and could require support intervention. [(3) ]() To resolve this: 1. First, verify the number isn't showing in your phone numbers list via the API:

javascript
import Retell from 'retell-sdk';
const client = new Retell({
  apiKey: 'YOUR_RETELL_API_KEY',
}) ;
const phoneNumberResponse = await client.phoneNumber.retrieve('+14157774444') ;
console.log(phoneNumberResponse.inbound_agent_id) ;

[(4) ]() 2. If the number doesn't appear but you still get the error, you'll need to contact support with: - Your org ID (found in account settings, bottom left of dashboard) - The phone number you're trying to add - Proof of ownership from your telephony provider (e.g., Twilio screenshot) [(2) ]() For direct support, reach out via [Contact Sales]() or email support@retellai.com.

​ To learn more, see the sources I considered: [[1] Phone number already exists](https://discord.com/channels/1186424376300679209/1394349484481187900) [[2] Phone Number Already exists error](https://discord.com/channels/1186424376300679209/1449466399637639239) [[3] I’m getting an error saying the number already exists — even though it no longer appears in my phone](https://discord.com/channels/1186424376300679209/1455712680160526357) [[4] Get Phone Number](https://docs.retellai.com/api-references/get-phone-number) ​

Feel free to tag @AI Evy with additional questions. I also appreciate feedback, it helps me improve.