Frequently Asked Questions

Can you tell me who keeps calling me or my fax line?

Unfortunately we can not help you. We are not a phone directory service, nor are we able to pass along personal information about specific numbers. You might want to try the following directory for assistance.

http://www.inter800.com

What is a Toll Free Number?

A toll free number is a telephone number that can be called at no cost to the caller, because the recipient pays for the cost of the call. Also referred to as '800' numbers after the original area code, although toll free numbers today can start with the area codes, 800, 888, 877, and 866.

How do toll-free numbers work?

A toll free number just forwards to or points to a regular local number. No special equipment or additional line or installation is required. When a call is placed to a toll free number, the Local Exchange Company (LEC) queries the SMS/800 Database to determine the inter-exchange carrier (long distance company) responsible for carrying the call. The inter-exchange carrier then picks up the call, applies the appropriate features or routing, creates a call record for billing, and routes the call to the terminating number, trunk ID or circuit ID to which the toll free number is programmed to ring.

If a company has an 800 number, can I also reach them by calling the 888, 877, or 866 equivalent?

No. Toll free codes are separate and distinct. Different companies may have the same phone number, but with different toll free codes.

Can I use more than 7 digits?

Phone numbers have 7 digits, so although you can not use less than 7 digits, you can use more. The only exception is that if callers dial 8 digits on their cell phone it may not go through. And if you have a Z near the end of your name or a part of your name that is difficult to spell it may be a good idea to push that off the end of the vanity number. But in general, using 7 digits will give you greater flexibility when searching for a toll free number by providing more options from which to choose.

How are toll-free numbers assigned to subscribers? How can I get a toll-free number?

Toll-free numbers are usually assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Entities called Responsible Organizations ("RespOrgs"), which are usually toll-free service providers or carriers, have access to a database that contains information regarding the status of all toll-free numbers.

I've heard that toll-free numbers are portable; what does that mean?

Portability means that toll-free subscribers can change carriers without having to obtain a new toll-free number. Subscribers may also change Responsible Organizations if they choose to do so.

What is the FCC's role in the market for toll-free services?

The Commission regulates or sets the rules under which toll-free numbers can be used or obtained. The Commission is not involved in the day-to-day allocation of toll-free numbers and does not have access to the toll-free database.

Has the FCC Commission issued any rulemakings regarding toll-free numbers?

Yes. On October 5, 1995, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Toll-free Service Access Codes, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, FCC Rcd 10 13962 (released October 5, 1995)) to address issues regarding the efficient, fair, and equitable allocation of toll-free numbers. Subsequent to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Common Carrier Bureau, acting on delegated authority, issued a Report and Order (Toll-free Service Access Codes, Report and Order, 11 FCC Rcd 2496 (released January 25, 1996)) that addressed those issues crucial to the opening of the 888 code for toll-free calling. On April 11, 1997, the Commission released a Second Report and Order addressing issues pertaining to the efficient, fair, and equitable allocation of toll-free numbers. On October 9, 1997, the Commission released a Third Report and Order addressing issues relating to toll free database administration. On March 31, 1998, the Commission released a Fourth Report and Order ( erratum ) addressing the issue of vanity-number assignment. Some issues raised in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking remain unaddressed, and the proceeding is still open. On July 5, 2000, the Commission released a Fifth Report and Order in the matter of Toll Free Service Access Codes, Database Services Management, Inc.'s Petition for Declaratory Ruling, and Beehive Telephone Company's Petition for Declaratory Ruling. CC Docket No. 95-155, NSD File No. L-99-87, NSD File No. L-99-88. Custom Toll Free makes sure your business doesn't get caught up in all the legal jargon. We help you decide on the numbers that really drive your business, find it for you, and get it working for you.

How can I stay informed of any decisions by the FCC regarding toll-free numbers?

If you have access to the internet, you can follow all FCC actions by accessing the FCC's homepage at http://www.fcc.gov. The Daily Digest is a listing of all announcements, decisions, or actions by the Commission for a particular day. Any decision regarding toll-free numbers will be listed on the Daily Digest. Within the FCC's internet site, the Common Carrier Bureau, which regulates interstate telephone services, has its own homepage. The Common Carrier Bureau's site contains up-to-date information on toll-free numbers on a home page just for toll free service. If you do not have access to the internet, you can obtain the Daily Digest through their fax-on-demand service by calling (202) 418-2830.

Can I still get toll-free directory assistance through "1-800-555-1212"?

Yes. Toll-free directory assistance for all toll free numbers can be obtained by calling "1-800-555-1212."

Do You Have Further Toll Free Questions?

If you're looking for a great toll free number, but still have a lot of questions, give us a call at 1-800-CUSTOMIZE or fill out our contact form and we'll contact you!