If you live in the 870 area code, you’re going to have to dial an area code for every call henceforth. The Arkansas Public Service Commission reminds Arkansas that today’s the first day of a new system.
“Beginning January 19, 2024, all local calls made within the AR 870 area code must be
placed using 10 digits (area code + the 7-digit telephone number). On and after this date, calls placed using just 7 digits will not be completed,” their press release said.
But the real excitement begins Feb. 20, when new numbers within the 870 boundaries might be assigned a 327 area code.
Here’s more to know about the change from the Arkansas Public Service Commission’s press release.
The key facts for consumers to know about the upcoming AR 870/327 area code overlay are:
• Your current telephone number, including current area code, will not change.
• If you seek new phone service on and after February 20, 2024, you may be assigned
a phone number with the 327 area code.
• You will need to dial the area code + telephone number for all local calls, including
calls within the same area code.
• You will continue to dial 1 + area code + telephone number for all long-distance
calls.
• What is a local call now will remain a local call.
• The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to
the overlay.
• You can still dial just three digits to reach 911 and 988. You can also dial three
digits to reach 211, 311, 511, 611, 711 and 811 where available.
Older medical alert devices, security alarms and other gizmos wired in to call emergency services may need updating to 10-digit dialing rather than seven digits.
Obviously this song is in your head now, so enjoy: