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Consumer Information

      
   
Directory Assistance


What is directory assistance?
Directory assistance (sometimes called "information") is a service provided by telephone companies whereby customers may access directory assistance operators to obtain telephone numbers.
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Who provides directory assistance services?
Both local and long distance telephone companies provide directory assistance services.
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How many types of telephone directory assistance are available?
There are four types of telephone directory assistance:
 
Local directory assistance
Local directory assistance is also sometimes referred to as local 411 service. This service normally is provided by your local telephone company to make available telephone number information about the telephone company's local service area. Almost all companies now charge for directory assistance calls. As of January 1999, this fee ranged from 25 cents to 75 cents per call.
 
Long distance directory assistance
By dialing 1+area code + 555-1212, you are requesting a number outside your local telephone company's calling area. Both local and long distance telephone companies handle these directory assistance calls. Normally, charges will apply when using this directory assistance service. Customers should contact their telephone company for billing information. Some long distance telephone companies also provide local directory assistance services, however, the charges may be higher than using local directory assistance. Once again, check with your telephone service provider.
 
1-800 directory assistance
1-800-555-1212 directory assistance service is provided by long distance companies. This service allows customers to find a toll-free number (800, 877, 888 number) free of charge.
 
Dial-around directory assistance
Another option for obtaining local or long distance numbers is the use of dial-around directory assistance. These services are accessed by a number starting with 10-10 or 1-800 and are frequently advertised.
 
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Do customers have "free" options for obtaining numbers?
Yes. The following alternatives are available for customers:
  • Yellow pages and White pages
  • Libraries (Many public libraries have copies of telephone directories for the local area and some larger cities.)
  • Internet. Shown below are a few free directory assistance web site links:

    • Ameritech
    GTE
    AT&T
    World Pages
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For more information about this topic, contact Dennis Klaila at (608)267-9780 or (email: Dennis.Klaila@wisconsin.gov)