How to Record a Phone Conversation

Some smartphones feature call recording apps.

Recording phone conversations is useful if you are conducting phone interviews or meetings that will require you to reference the conversation later. Standard audio recorders usually do not produce high-quality phone recordings, so specialized equipment can help you reach the call quality you need. Before you record, check the laws regarding phone conversations in your state. Some states allow you to record phone calls if only one party, generally yourself, knows about the recording, while other states require that you inform the other party of the recording and get consent to record. If you intend to broadcast the conversation, the FCC requires that you receive consent from the other party for recording.

Things You'll Need

• Telephone recording device
• Telephone recording cable
• Telephone
• Computer (optional)

Instructions

1. Connect a commercial telephone recording device to the phone you plan to use for the conversation. This device may be a tape recorder with special cables that place it in line with the phone cords, or it may be a cable that hooks into your computer and uses computer audio software to make the recording.

2. Call a friend or family member to test your recording device. Even if your state does not require consent from the other party, let the state know you are recording as a courtesy.

3. Play back the audio from your test call and make any adjustments necessary. If your plan is to record an incoming call, ask a family member or friend to call you to test out the equipment on an incoming call too.

4. Confirm your equipment is running and conduct the call you want to record, such as an interview or meeting. Inform the other party about the recording if necessary or simply as a courtesy if it is not necessary in your state. Recording state-to-state calls always requires consent.

Tips & Warnings

• Many smartphones feature apps that let you record your calls. If you have a smartphone, check your app market for available options and follow all in-app instructions to record a call.

• Business call recording services are available in some areas. These may require fees and additional permissions. If you need to record company calls such as weekly business meetings, this may be a good option. For journalists and private recordings, having your own equipment can be more cost-effective and convenient.

References

• Journalism: How to Record Phone Interviews
• Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press: Can We Tape?
• Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press: Can We Tape? The FCC's Role

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish