FCC Supports Fair Distribution of Toll Free Numbers

In March 1998, the FCC ordered the fair distribution of vanity toll free numbers. The Commission concluded that assigning vanity numbers would be on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure fair allocation of numbers. The FCC decided that “a first-come, first-served process is also the most efficient method for assigning toll free numbers because it is the most easily administered and least expensive way to allocate numbers.” The FCC also announced that the the first-come, first-served system avoids disputes among subscribers over who is entitled to a particular number

SafeLink Provides Service For The Needy

Free cell phones are now being provided to needy residents of the U.S. The program is called SafeLink and is intended for low-income families and anyone receiving Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income and other government assistance programs. Safelink is being hailed as a safety program for those who cannot afford phones to stay in touch with children and family or who may need to contact police and medical personnel.
For more information on the free cell phone program go to SafeLink.com or call 1-800-977-3768.

SMS/800 Releases New 800 Numbers Nightly

Users who are waiting to reserve a number that will soon be returned to spare now know what time a given number will automatically spare. With the implementation of SMS/800 Release 16.0, numbers scheduled for automatic spare are released at 11 pm Central.

Read more here.

Some Say Rationing is Impossible but History Doesn’t Lie

In the past few years, proposals to ration toll free numbers have been narrowly defeated. Yet, rumors are still swirling that a rationing program for the few remaining 800 numbers is imminent. Supplies of 800, 888, 877, and 866 numbers are so depleted that availability is at an all-time low. But some say rationing the numbers, as the federal government did in 1995, is not the answer and could have a negative impact on the business community.

855 and 844 Area Codes Equate To Millions Of Options.

When you do the math, you realize that the new 855 area code toll free phone numbers, along with the pending new 844 numbers, equate to millions of new custom telephone number options for subscribers. With millions of new opportunities, business owners can create memorable custom toll free numbers to enhance their marketing and customer outreach. The possibilities are huge.

Sometimes 866 Numbers are Easier to Find

1-866 numbers are increasing in popularity. For many subscribers, it is easier to find a suitable 1-866 number these days than a 1-800 number. They are widely recognized as toll free numbers. AT&T introduced 800 numbers in 1967. Two decades later, when most of the 7 million possible numbers were taken, the 888 pre-fix was introduced. It took just two years for that supply to run dry. The FCC then launched 877 in 1998 followed soon after by 866.

FCC Narrowing Gaze Upon Number Hoarders

According to the FCC, hoarding and warehousing numbers is prohibited and punishable with severe fines.

Along with hoarding, the outright sale of specific toll free numbers is likewise illegal. Some crafty entrepreneurs have attempted to skirt the regulations by “leasing” or “renting” numbers. But industry insiders say the crackdown on illegal use of toll free numbers is aimed at this practice too.

Read more here.

More Opportunities With 855 and 844 Numbers

Just like 855 area code phone numbers just did (and 800, 888, 877 and 866 before that) the new 844 toll free numbers will add millions of options for subscribers looking for a perfect custom number to match a business name, brand or a domain name. When the 844s come out, there will be many more opportunities for toll free subscribers.

SMS/800 Puts Spare Number Release System into Effect

With the implementation of SMS/800 Release 16.0, numbers scheduled for automatic spare are released at 11 pm Central.

Previously, the system spared numbers throughout the day as their waiting periods expired, but users interested in reserving the number once it was spare never knew exactly when the number would be available.

Read more here.

Toll Free Service Costs Can Vary

Toll free phone service has become an affordable and reliable option that offers customers countless features and price points to meet their individual needs.

Subscribers will never encounter any surprise costs and hidden fees with toll free numbers obtained through a reputable service provider. Subscribers can choose from a list of specific services and products not available through regular phone service. With toll free service, they never pay for options they don’t need and won’t use.

Read more here.