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An answering service is a third-party service that answers a business's phone calls on its behalf. Agents or AI greet callers, take messages, answer basic questions, and relay information to the business. It is commonly used for overflow, after-hours, and 24/7 coverage.
Answering services have existed for decades, originally as call centers staffed by human operators who took messages for doctors, tradespeople, and small offices. Today many run on AI or a mix of AI and live agents.
A typical answering service greets the caller, follows instructions you provide, and then delivers messages by text, email, or a portal. More advanced services can schedule appointments, capture leads, or transfer urgent calls.
Pricing models vary: many charge per minute or per call, while some, including Cadrey Receptionist, offer a flat monthly rate so the cost stays predictable regardless of call volume.
It answers your incoming calls, greets callers on your behalf, takes messages or answers questions, and relays that information to you by text, email, or a portal.
Costs vary by model. Many bill per minute or per call, so busy months cost more, while flat-rate options charge a fixed monthly fee regardless of volume.
Related: AI Receptionist, Virtual Receptionist, Per-Minute Billing, Flat-Rate Answering