866 Area code added
Note: This story may not be current. It is part of the IT News Archive, and exists as a historical document.
Toll free calling is growing in popularity in the US as an affordable option for companies to offer their customers. Now, the demand for additional toll free numbers has led to the creation of the new 866 area code.
Originally, only the 800 area code was designated as toll free, but as the numbers were taken for personal and business use, the 877, 888 and now 866 area codes have been added.
Toll free calls do not charge the caller for calling the number, but the toll free number's owner is charged a flat fee per minute for each call, regardless of where the call originated. This allows customers to call outside of their calling area without being charged for the call. As the demand for more toll free calls increases, new area codes should be expected to meet the need for service.
