What is a toll free phone number?
A toll free phone number allows the caller to place a call to a
specific location without charge to the caller. The cost of the call is borne by the owner
of the toll free number. The owner of the toll free number can specify virtually any phone
number as the "ring to" number. (As the name implies, the "ring to"
number is simply the phone line that the toll free numbers ring to.) It can be a
home, office, fax or cell phone number. Toll free telephone numbers have a prefix of 800,
888, 877 or 866.
In addition, multiple toll free numbers can be assigned to a single
phone line in order to track the effectiveness of a marketing campaign or promotion. Gage
the popularity by the number of calls placed to each toll free number.
Do I have to get another phone line to have a toll
free number?
No, you do not need another phone line.
A toll free number can rings on a existing phone line and will ring
just like any other call. The existing phone number is the "ring
to" number of your toll free number.
Are toll free phone numbers expense?
No. That's the misconception about toll free numbers. They are
relatively inexpensive.
Here are some general guidelines about the cost of toll free
service:
-
Some companies may charge a nominal set-up
fee.
-
Most companies charge a monthly fee, either
per account or per toll free number.
-
The per minute for toll free calls is quite
often the same as for outbound long distance service.
-
There normally is a charge of around 35¢ for calls originating from
payphones.
Can I get just a toll free number?
Most companies only offer toll free numbers to
their long distance customers. However, there are some companies that
do offer "standalone" toll free service. Therefore, you will
have the greatest selection of plans if you are willing to also switch
your long distance service.
I already have a toll free number. Can I transfer it to another long
distance company?
Yes, as long is it is truly yours. Some toll free phone numbers
belong to the toll free provider and are merely "rented" by the customer.
To transfer an existing toll free number to another long distance
company you simply need to establish an account and to complete and submit a toll free
number transfer form.
If I move or get a new telephone number, do I have to get a new toll free
number?
No. Simply contact the long distance company that provides your
toll free service and ask to change your "ring to" number. (As the name implies,
the "ring to" number is simply the phone line that the toll free numbers ring
to.)
What is a vanity toll free number?
A vanity toll free number spells out a word or phrase utilizing the
telephone number pad in order to make the number more memorable. For example,
1-800-COLLECT translates to 1-800-265-5328.
Can I get a vanity number?
Possibly, but not likely. Since vanity number are so popular, they
have been virtually exhausted.
What is the difference between 800, 888, 877 and 866 toll free telephone
numbers?
Operationally, there is no difference. 800 was the first toll free
prefix. Once the 800-prefix numbers were exhausted, other prefixes became available. (The
next prefix that will become available will be 855.)
Can I still get a toll free phone number with an "800" prefix?
It is possible. However, it is more likely that you will receive an
877 or 866 prefix because of their greater availability.
The only "800" prefix numbers that are available are ones
that have been "re-cycled." When a customer with an "800" number
abandons it or turns it in, the number becomes available to new toll free customers. While
an "800" number may be more recognizable as being a toll free, since it is
"re-cycled," it may also expose you to calls trying to reach the number's
previous owner.
Can I have a toll free number on my home phone?
Yes. Anyone can have a toll free phone number. A toll free number
is a great way to allow friends and family members to call home with ease. They are ideal
for college students and travelers to use to call home.
Additionally, you can have a toll free number ring to your fax,
cell phone or virtually any phone you want.
Can I have a toll free number in the United States that rings to a phone
in another country?
Yes. However, only select toll free services
offer this capability. Kall8 permits
you to have your US toll free number to ring to a phone in another country.
