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Area Code Relief - Geographic Splits
What is a geographic split?
With a geographic split, the geographic area served by an existing area code is split into
two smaller areas. One of the sections will retain the existing area code while the other
section will receive a new area code. In addition:
- Splits maintain a single area code for each geographic area. This may minimize
confusion for callers from outside of the area. Future splits, if any, would continue
to reduce the geographic size of the area code.
- Splits require an area code change for approximately one-half of the customers. Stationery,
business cards and advertising would need to be revised by those customers receiving the new
area code.
- Geographic splits permit seven-digit local dialing within the area code.
- In Wisconsin, the current 262 and 920 area codes were created when the 414 area code was
split on two previous occasions.
How is a new area code introduced in a geographic split?
A new area code is introduced in two steps. These steps are designed to guide
consumers, familiarize them with the new area code and facilitate the correct use of the
new area code:
- Permissive Dialing: Permissive dialing allows callers to reach numbers in
the new area code, whether they dialed the old area code or the new area code when placing
calls. During this transitional period, customers should make an effort to begin using
the new area code. The permissive dialing period begins with the introduction of the
new area code and generally lasts six months. This provides a ‘get
acquainted’ transition period for the new area code.
- Mandatory Dialing When permissive dialing ends, an intercept recording period
will begin. At this time, callers must use the appropriate area code.
Incorrectly dialed calls will be referred to a recorded announcement informing
the calling party that the new area code must be used in order to complete the call.
After the recording period ends, callers who do not use the correct area code may reach a
wrong number.
How will an area code split impact my home and business telephone service?
Your calling areas and rates will not be impacted by an area code split. Calls that
were considered local before the introduction of the new area code will remain local calls.
Calls that were considered long distance before the new area code will remain long distance
calls. However, if your area code changes, you should notify family, friends and business
associates of this change. You may also need to modify items such as stationery, business cards,
advertisements, alarm equipment, automatic dialers, bill statements, checks, computer lists,
electronic banking information, emergency contact lists, identification bracelets, fax machines,
health provider cards, pet ID tags and speed dial lists.
Additionally:
- Some business customers, particularly those with a PBX or ISDN service, may need to upgrade or
adjust their own telephone equipment to handle the new area code.
Not all business equipment will require upgrading. If you have specific questions
regarding your equipment, please contact your vendor for additional information or assistance.
- Once the new area code has been determined, a test number will be established at least 30
days prior to the start of permissive dialing. This will allow business customers to
verify that their equipment can complete calls to the new area code. The test number may be
obtained from the associated planning letter for each area code on NANPA’s
website: www.nanpa.com.
Compare the key differences between a geographic split and an overlay.
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