Scuttlebutt Suggests 855 in May

May 1 is just three days away. We are all waiting for more information on the 855 toll free area codes, rumored to be released as early as May. Nothing definite yet but we hope the scuttlebutt is true. New toll free area codes are needed to address the growing demand for these numbers. We hope the FCC unveils the new numbers soon, allowing millions of subscribers to sign on for new custom toll free phone numbers.

Diminishing Supplies of 800 Numbers Have Experts Worried

Experts warn that the U.S. supply of available 1-800 numbers, dwindling for years, is now nearly depleted. Toll free numbers enable callers to reach businesses, organizations, and non-profits without having to pay for the call. This marketing tool has been so successful that the available 1-800 numbers are decreasing while demand is growing at unprecedented rates.

U.S. Supply of 800 Numbers Decreasing Rapidly

The best way to obtain a toll free number before supply runs out completely is to contact a reliable toll free service provider that has access to the database of available numbers. On the SMSGOV.COM “companies” page, we list providers that will assist subscribers in finding a quality toll free number at a very low cost. Until a new pre-fix is launched, which could take years, it appears the race is on to secure the remaining numbers.

Read more here.

855 A Win-Win

The release of the 855 toll free area code numbers would allow millions of toll free subscribers to get a new custom toll free phone number. No one loses. It is a win-win for everyone. Let’s hope the rumors that the 855 numbers will be released within a few weeks are accurate. We’ll let you know as soon as we hear anything.

Earth Day Programs Found Through Toll Free Numbers

Government agencies throughout the nation are supporting Earth Day with programs aimed at helping residents be “greener” this April 22, the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. For instance, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is encouraging New York’s Great Appliance Swap Out (which has provided nearly $13.6 million to help more than 125,000 New Yorkers reduce their energy costs) has $3.2 million dollars available for New York residents who want to replace their old, inefficient appliances with new, energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly models. Residents can find out more at the toll free hotline, 1-877- NY-SMART (877-697-6278). Not from New York? No problem! Google ‘Earth Day’ and ‘toll free numbers’ and find all the connections for Earth Day programs and celebrations near your home or business.

Federal Help for Homeowners Hoping To Avoid Foreclosure

The worldwide recession is waning but the lag time for house foreclosures remains. In fact, millions of new foreclosures were reported last week. The federal government is offering assistance for homeowners in trouble through a toll free phone number. For information about modifying your mortgage, go to MakingHomeAffordable.gov, a website sponsored by the federal government with the goal of helping the 12 million American families whose homes are now worth less than they owe. The site lists HUD-approved counselors who will work with you for free. Call toll free at 1-888-995-4673.

Health Services Via Toll Free Number

Health and wellness services are now being offered nationwide using a toll free phone number to help patients reach health professional free of charge. Rite Aid customers can sign up fora wellness program that provides members with free health and wellness benefits, as well as shopping discounts and special prices. The free Rite Aid wellness+ program includes a 24/7 toll free phone number with access to a pharmacist. Plus, discounts are listed each week in Rite Aid’s weekly newspaper circulars, and there are special member-only temporary price reductions .Customers also call 1-800-RITEAID to apply for the wellness+ program, and the account will be activated in 24 hours.

How Many New Numbers With 855?

How many new toll free phone numbers will the pending 855 area codes provide us? A lot. Millions. There are 10,000 new numbers with each digit sequence. For instance, 855-111-???? would give us 10,000 new numbers. Many sequential digits are removed from the equation so the number is not an absolute. However, these millions of new possibilities would offer businesses many marketing options and help companies reach consumers in the best way possible–through a toll free phone call. Subscribers will be able to add additional toll free numbers or get brand new ones with the 855 area code. Its been a decade since the previous toll free area code was released. It is time for 855.

The Price of 800 Numbers Is Increasing

Due to the ongoing scarcity of 800 area code phone numbers, recent reports are indicating that phone companies are beginning to raise the cost to obtain 800 numbers.

Many providers are expected to follow suit.

Also Read:

The Toll Free Ration Bill

Proposed Ration Bill

800 Numbers Running Low

Teamsters Launch 1-800-976-0071 Toll-Free Number

Even the Teamsters are into toll free phone numbers these days. Teamsters Locals 117 and 174 announced the launch of a tollfree number (1-800-976-0071) for the Neighborhood Trash Watch (NTW) program. The program offers residents ways to report service failures in the event of a lock-out or strike. The Teamsters launched the toll free number to keep residents informed about the ongoing labor dispute and to help them report service failures. Residents who call the toll-free number will be connected to their mayor’s office after they enter their zip code.