What is The Goodbye Line?

The Goodbye Line is a free, community art project where you can say the goodbyes you never got to. It’s a space for expression, reflection, and honoring the hard work of letting go.

How does it work?

You call the line and leave a message — it’s yours to shape however you need. You’re welcome to call as often as you want.

How do I call The Goodbye Line? Do I need to use a payphone?

You can call from any phone—mobile, landline, or payphone. The line is open 24/7. While we feature payphones when we find them, the project is not limited to them.

If you spot a working payphone you think we should know about, feel free to reach out—we’re always looking.

Can I call from outside the United States?

You can call from anywhere in the world. The toll-free number may not connect outside the U.S., however, calls placed through WhatsApp or similar apps usually work. Just remember to include the U.S. country code while dialing.

Will my message be shared publicly?

The primary purpose of The Goodbye Line is to give people a space to express themselves.

By leaving a message, you add it to the project’s archive. On occasion, a small number of messages may be shared anonymously—with extreme discretion and care—through art, storytelling projects, social media, and community installations, as a way to remind others they’re not alone.

If you don’t want your message shared, simply say so in your recording. We respect all requests for privacy.

Can I stay anonymous?

Yes. You don’t need to give your name unless you want to.

Will my message be used for anything else?

We sometimes share messages in exhibits, online, and may include them in future art or storytelling projects related to The Goodbye Line community.

We will never sell or commercialize your words.

Why wasn’t my call included on social media?

We receive thousands of calls, far more than we could ever share. Only a small number of messages are featured publicly, and selection isn’t a measure of importance or impact. Every message matters, whether it’s shared or remains private.

Can I use these voicemails in my own project?

Messages left on The Goodbye Line may not be reused, adapted, or incorporated into other works (including music, film, or writing).

These messages belong to the people who shared them—and to this project, which exists to hold them with care. They were offered in a spirit of vulnerability and trust.

Reusing them outside that context isn’t just a legal issue—it’s an ethical one.

Is the content sensitive?

Messages shared through The Goodbye Line may touch on grief, loss, and other sensitive topics. Please take care when listening.

Is this a crisis line?

No — The Goodbye Line is not a crisis or counseling service.

If you are in immediate need of help, please contact a crisis line in your area.