Anyone Know About This Change Coming To (All?) Phone Users?

Just received this notice with my (AT&T) phone bill, but can't tell if it applies to everyone, nationwide (though I think it would):



The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted 988 as a new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis  Lifeline, starting July 16, 2022.  Customers must continue to dial 1.800.273.TALK to reach the Lifeline until July 16, 2022.

In order for 988 to work in your area code, 10-digit local dialing must first be implemented.  Get ready to change the way you dial (all) your local calls!



What Will Be The New Dialing Procedure?

To complete all local calls, you will now need to dial area code + telephone number.  This applies to ALL calls within your area code that are currently dialed with seven digits.



Who Will Be Affected?

Anyone with a telephone number from your area code will need to make this change from 7-digit local dialing to 10-digit local dialing.



When Will The Change Begin?

Beginning April 24, 2021, you should begin dialing 10 digits (area code + telephone number) for all local calls.  If you forget and dial just 7 digits, your call will still be completed.

Beginning October 24, 2021, you MUST dial 10 digits (area code + telephone number) for ALL local calls.  On and after this date, local calls dialed with only 7 digits may not be completed, and a recording will instruct you that your call cannot be completed as dialed.  You must hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number.

Beginning July 16, 2022, dialing "988" will route your call to National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.



SAVE  FERRIS