Rationing Toll Free

The idea of toll free rationing is one that evokes a lot of response. There has been a lot of discussion about the dearth of good 1-800 numbers, and some are now wondering if the federal government will start rationing again at some point if new numbers aren’t released. Rationing is not a new concept. After 800 numbers ran dry in 1995 the federal government rationed numbers until the 888 numbers were launched a year later. Rationing toll free numbers is not good news for entrepreneurs about to launch a new business.

Clarifying The Fcc’s Role In Toll Free

Although we have discussed this on this site previously, it seems there are still some misunderstandings about the FCC’s role in toll free practice. The FCC does not play a role in the assignment of numbers to subscribers, however they do regulate the guidelines under which 1-800 numbers can be used and obtained. For instance, the hoarding and warehousing of numbers is prohibited and punishable with severe fines—recently illustrated by a citation for an $11,000 fine each day a California company continued to implement improper toll free practices. Numbers are assigned by toll free carriers and phone companies.