T.A.C. Believes Toll Free Database Must Be Reinforced

During a recent discussion with members of the Tollfree Advisory Committee, it was agreed that if the database of toll free numbers isn’t beefed up soon, the finite supply of toll free numbers could run out. Last year, a plea for the deactivation of unused 800 numbers resulted in a temporary surge of numbers returned to the main database. But despite these mass replacements, the supply of available toll free numbers continues to dwindle as thousands of subscribers register for a toll free number each day. It’s time for some action.

The Toll Free Industry

Industry Compliance

One Purpose of the Tollfree Advisory Committee (TAC) is to assist in arbitrating disputes between subscribers/Responsible Organizations/the Government/and end users of telephone and communications services.
Read more here.

Ads Now Featuring 855 Phone Numbers.

As the popularity and recognition of the newly released 855 toll free area code numbers grows, we see more and more advertisements and websites including the new 855 number. 855 numbers are quickly being acquired as we wait for more news on the pending 844 toll free phone numbers. Those, too, are needed to ease the burden.

Can a State Say NO?

Many people wonder how far the law can go and who can stop it. You can start getting yourself acquainted with the restrictions of state and government officials here. Good luck!

Upcoming Workshop Focuses on Toll Free Scarcity

During an interactive workshop at an upcoming telecommunications conference, members of the Tollfree Advisory Committee at SMSGOV.com will be discussing the scarcity of available, good toll free numbers and how it is causing a surge of subscribers scurrying to obtain toll free. At previous discussions some of the attendees have feared that small businesses nationwide could see disastrous economic fallout. Toll free numbers are proven as an effective marking strategy that increases customer base and boosts revenue. The depletion of supplies are creating much discussion within the industry.

FCC Mandates Faster Porting of Telephone Numbers

The Federal Communications Commission has voted to mandate landline phone companies to move faster when their subscribers request moving their phone number to a rival service. The commission will require companies to transfer, or “port,” landline phone numbers within one business day. Wireless numbers are typically ported within one day — in some cases within hours — and the FCC has determined that landline companies should move just as quickly.

The FCC wants procedures developed within about three months. The carriers will then have nine months to comply. Smaller carriers will get an extra six months, for a total of about a year and a half before the new rules will be set in motion.

Damage Prevention Act

There had been a lot of buzz on Missouri house bill 1779. It has a lot to do with public and private property and the people who are on the land and own the land.
Continue the article here.

Californians Rebel

Are California drivers sticking it to the man with refusal to obey the “hands-free” law? Many people think so. Drive around California and you will see plenty of people on the road fiddling with their phones. Read more on this here.

Thanksgiving 1-800 Numbers

The federal government and private businesses have plenty of toll free phone numbers, with representatives ready and waiting, to help consumers will their Thanksgiving holiday tomorrow. Here are just a few:

Butterball Turkey Talk-Line is 1-800-BUTTERBALL (1-800-288-8372) to offer tips on preparing your bird.

Reynolds Wrap has a Turkey Tips hot line at 1-800-745-4000.

Food and Drug Administration hot line, 1-888-SAFEFOOD, or 1-888-723-3366.

USDA Meat & Poultry Hot Line 1-888-674-6854.

Crisco Pie Hot Line, 1-877-FOR PIE TIPS (1-877-367-7438) for baking and storage tips.

Happy Thanksgiving from Toll FRee Service Management.

It Pays to Do Your Homework Beforehand

1-800 numbers are available from large phone companies and from federally approved toll free service providers, Responsible Organizations. These smaller companies have the same access to the database of available phone numbers as AT&T and Verizon. However, service fees and features can vary greatly so the best thing we can do is to advise subscribers to research several toll free providers before signing up.