10-Digit Dialing

Get Ready for 10-Digit Dialing

In July 2020, the Federal Communications Commission adopted an order approving the designation of 988 as the 3-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. To facilitate implementation, area codes across the country where the 988 prefix is a working prefix and which now use 7-digit dialing must transition to 10-digit dialing. This includes the 618 area code in our service area.

You should still dial 911 to reach emergency services.

Effective April 24, 2021, 10-digit dialing will work for all calls within the 618 area code. If you forget and dial only 7 digits, your call will still be completed.

Starting October 24, 2021, you must dial the 618 area code plus the 7-digit phone number to make local calls. Calls dialed with only 7 digits may not be completed after that date. In addition to changing your dialing routine, you’ll also have to reprogram 7-digit local numbers to 10-digit numbers if you use speed dial or any other system that automatically makes calls for you.

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

Your telephone number, long-distance rates, calling package, and other services will remain the same.

Please contact the HomeTel office at (618) 644-2111 with any questions.