What Area Codes Are Affected?
In Tennessee, area codes 731 and 865. If you have one of these area codes, beginning on October 24, 2021, you must dial ten digits (area code + telephone number) for all local calls. On and after this date, local calls dialed with only seven digits may not connect, and a recording will inform you that your call cannot be completed as dialed. You must hang up and dial again using the area code and the seven-digit number. Some of us have been using ten-digit dialing for a while. This will now affect 731 and 865 area codes in Tennessee.
What Changes Will My Business Need to Make?
If your company uses a PBX or VoIP phone system, you may need to update or reprogram it for ten-digit dialing. Reprogramming of PBX or VoIP systems can begin at any time.
How Can Hiscall Help?
Hiscall is here to assist you with reprogramming. If you are a Hiscall HSA or HMS customer, we will contact you and make changes with your approval at no charge. For all other customers, you can create a service ticket by emailing us at services@Hiscall.com. Standard T&M charges may apply. In order to meet the October 24th deadline, you should plan to complete any needed reprogramming and test your system before October 2021.
Will This Affect My Current Telephone Numbers?
No. Transitioning to ten-digit dialing will not affect your current telephone number. Your phone number, including your area code, will not change.
Why is Ten-Digit Dialing Necessary?
In 2020, the FCC established ‘988’ as the new, nationwide three-digit phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Similar to ‘911’ for emergencies and ‘311’ for local government services, this three-digit dialing code will provide an easy-to-remember and easy-to-dial number to reach suicide prevention and mental health counselors. To help facilitate the creation of ‘988’, area codes that use ‘988’ as a local exchange will need to use 10-digit dialing. ‘988’ will be available nationwide by July 16, 2022.
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