FCC Implements 10-Digit Dialing
/Callers in Missouri and 36 other states will now have to use the full 10-digit phone number of the person they are trying to connect with. The Federal Communications Commission implemented its mandatory 10-dialing change on Sunday, October 24.
The FCC began the process of changing to the 10-digit system in April, forcing callers to dial the area code and the phone number for all calls. If calls are not completed with ten digits, a recording will say the call cannot be completed as dialed.
People living in 816, 660, 417 and 314 area codes will have to dial 10 digits for local calls to go through – even ones made in their own area code.
The 10-digit dialing system is necessary to help people call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s new three-digit number. In July, the FCC approved 988 as the number to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. It works similar to dialing 911.
Many existing numbers in area codes across the country begin with 988, and the number could be mistakenly dialed by someone trying to enter a seven-digit number. To prevent that, the FCC is requiring area codes to be entered in places where these “988” phone numbers exist.
The new rule requires phone providers to direct all 988 calls to one of the 170 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline crisis centers by July 16, 2022. Until then, callers needing should continue to call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story
