More Hoosier Area Codes to Move to 10-Digit Dialing
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Northwestern Indiana Telephone Co. Inc. has announced that all telephone users in the 219 and 574 area codes in northern Indiana will soon convert to 10-digit dialing. The company says its customers can now start using 10-digit dialing instead of seven digit to make local phone calls, while other carriers will be ready to convert by April.
According to NITCO, the Federal Communications Commission is requiring the change to accommodate the implementation of the national “988” National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which will be fully applied by July 2022.
Customers in the 219 and 574 area codes should be aware of the information below:
- Your telephone number and area code will not change.
- In these area codes, you will need to dial the area code + telephone number (a total of 10 digits).
- All long-distance calls will still require dialing 1 + area code + telephone number (a total of 11 digits).
- Calls that are currently local will remain local.
- 10-digit dialing will not change the price of a local call, coverage area, or other rates and services.
- You can still dial three digits to reach 911 (emergency services), 211 (social services), 411 (directory assistance), 711 (telecommunications relay service), or 811 (call to request utility locate before you dig)
- Start including your area code when giving out your phone number
- Make sure all preprogrammed numbers for local calls are set to include the area code (like fax machines, life safety systems, etc.)
- Make sure your website, stationery, checks, pet tags, etc. include your area code
- Any safety and security equipment must be programmed to include 10-digit local dialing unless they’re already directed to long-distance or toll-free.
- Contact your medical alert of security provider if you are unsure if your equipment needs to be reprogrammed.
The company says all reprogramming must be completed by October 24, and customers are encouraged to begin the process as soon after April 24 as possible.
In 2016, IIB reported residents in the 317 area code were required to use 10 digits when making phone calls.