What Are Toll-Free Numbers?
Toll-free numbers are telephone numbers with distinct three-digit codes that can be dialed from landlines with no charge to the person placing the call. In the United States and Canada, toll-free numbers are typically prefixed with one of the following: 800, 888, 877, 866, or 855.
Toll-free numbers are very useful for businesses as they provide a free and convenient way for customers to contact them. They can also be used to route calls to different departments or locations.
How Do Toll-Free Numbers Work?
Toll-free numbers work by forwarding calls to a regular phone line, which is then answered by the business. The cost of the call is borne by the business, not the caller.
Toll-free numbers are assigned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States and by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) in Canada and businesses must apply for a toll-free number from these organizations.
How Much Do Toll-Free Numbers Cost?
The cost of a toll-free number depends on the country you are in and the service provider you use. In the United States, for example, businesses can expect to pay around $30 per month for a toll-free number.
In Canada, businesses can expect to pay around $20-$25 per month for a toll-free number from most service providers.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Using Toll-Free Numbers?
One of the main disadvantages of using toll-free numbers is that they can be spoofed by scammers. This means that scammers can make it appear as if they are calling from a legitimate toll-free number when they are actually not. This can be very confusing and frustrating for customers who are trying to reach a legitimate business.
Another disadvantage of using toll-free numbers is that they can be expensive for businesses, depending on the country and service provider.
