Why do customers in some states have to dial the area code for local phone calls?
Area code overlays can result in two different end-users in the same geographic area with the same seven-digit local number, but with two different area codes. Existing numbers would use the existing area code but new numbers may be assigned with the new area code. To route local calls to the right destinations, customers must dial ten digits for local calls. In addition, using the area code as a part of local telephone number dialing permits a more complete use of all of the numbers within an area code, extending the life of the area code. The FCC has required the use of area code numbers when dialing local calls in an area code overlay plan in order to level the playing field, so that new telephone companies can offer their services without a perceived competitive disadvantage. Without ten-digit dialing, established telephone companies may have a perceived advantage over new telephone companies. Customers could find it less attractive to choose a new telephone company if doing so wou
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- Why do customers in some states have to dial the area code for local phone calls?
