Abstract: A telephone call deferral system which allows incoming telephone calls to be deferred for a user selected period or until a user selected time. During the defer time, incoming calls are intercepted, the ring sound is suppressed, and the caller receives a voice message indicating that calls are not currently being received but will be at the specified defer time. Programming of the defer mode of operation is effected from the key pad of any telephone instrument connected with the telephone line of the user. An override system allows emergency calls to be completed from parties in possession of a special access code.