How are businesses affected by a new area code?
A. If your business uses specialized communications equipment (often called PBX), electronic telephone sets, automatic-dialing or multi-line key systems, you may need to reprogram or upgrade your equipment. Unlike the format used in the past, new area codes may not have a “0” or “1” as their middle digit. As a result, these new area codes may not be recognizable by some business telephone equipment. You may test your telephone equipment to determine if it recognizes the specific area code number and formats by calling a test number that appears in each state-specific section. If the call goes through, a recording will state you have successfully completed a call to the new area code. If the call does not go through, contact your equipment provider to ask about telephone equipment changes. As a direct result of new area codes being added, dialing 10-digit local phone numbers may become necessary in select areas. Some telephone systems may also require modification in order to dial a 10-
