Get Your Business a Toll Free 866 Number
Did You Know 866 Numbers Work the Same as 800 Toll Free Numbers?
An 866 number is a toll free phone number that allows your customers to reach you on any device. As a startup, using an 866 number gives your business a professional image and nationwide presence, removing the geographic limitations of a local number. 866 numbers are low-cost and easily portable across carriers, and you’re more likely to find a unique or vanity number compared to older toll-free prefixes. In other words, 866 numbers are newer than 800 numbers, so you have a better chance of snagging a custom vanity number.
Did You Know 866 Numbers Work the Same as 800 Toll Free Numbers?
An 866 number is a toll free phone number that allows your customers to reach you on any device. As a startup, using an 866 number gives your business a professional image and nationwide presence, removing the geographic limitations of a local number. 866 numbers are low-cost and easily portable across carriers, and you’re more likely to find a unique or vanity number compared to older toll-free prefixes. In other words, 866 numbers are newer than 800 numbers, so you have a better chance of snagging a custom vanity number.
20 Things You Should Know About 866 Numbers
1. What is an 866 toll free number?
An 866 toll free phone number is an official prefix released by the FCC’s SMS National Database. It functions the same way other toll free numbers work. In other words, an 866 toll-free number is a telephone number with the 866 prefix that can be dialed anywhere in the country without the caller incurring long-distance charges. The charge for the call is borne by the owner of the 866 number, which is typically a business.
2. How to get an 866 number?
Getting an 866 number is relatively straightforward. You can purchase one from a variety of telecommunications providers or VoIP services. Some offer them a la carte, while others include them in their overall service packages. The process usually involves choosing the number you want (if available), setting up an account, and paying for the service.
3. What are the benefits of getting an 866 number?
There are several benefits to getting an 866 number for your business:
- Professionalism: It gives your business a professional and established appearance.
- Geographic flexibility: Toll-free numbers aren’t tied to a particular area so you can attract customers nationwide.
- Customer friendliness: Customers can call you for free, which could lead to increased engagement.
- Easy to remember: You can often select a number that your customers can remember.
4. Why choose an 866 prefix?
Choosing an 866 prefix is just as good as any other toll-free prefix. Sometimes, the most traditional prefix, 800, is fully subscribed, which may lead you to choose another prefix like 866.
5. Is 866 Toll Free?
Yes, 866 is a toll-free number prefix. Calls to these numbers are free for the caller.
6. Are these numbers expensive?
The cost of 866 numbers can vary significantly based on the provider, the specific number, and the plan you choose. Some providers offer them for as low as $10 a month, while others charge a premium for vanity numbers or ones that spell out specific words.
7. Is there a difference between the 800, 888, 877, 866, and 855 prefixes?
There’s no intrinsic difference between these prefixes. They all function as toll-free numbers. The different prefixes were introduced as the popularity of toll-free numbers grew, and the supply of 800 numbers started to dwindle.
8. Are there any differences between 866 and other toll-free numbers?
In terms of functionality, there’s no difference between 866 and other toll-free numbers. The only difference is the prefix.
9. Are toll free 866 numbers different than 800 numbers?
Only in that their area code is 866. Otherwise, no. 866 numbers were released in the 1990s because there weren’t enough toll free numbers to meet demand. Since then, 888, 877, 855, 844, and 833 numbers have all been released. If you’re looking for an 866 vanity number, you might have a better shot at finding the number you want with a new toll free prefix like 844 or 833.
10. Can I send and receive text messages with my 866 number?
Yes, most providers allow you to send and receive text messages with your 866 number. However, this feature may depend on your provider, so it’s worth checking.
11. How much does an 866 number cost?
The cost of an 866 number can vary depending on the provider. You might pay as little as $10 per month or as much as $30 or more. Some providers also charge a setup fee.
12. Do businesses use 866 numbers?
Yes, many businesses use 866 numbers. They are especially popular among businesses that operate nationally or want to give the impression of being a larger company .
13. What is an 866 number for a business?
An 866 number for a business is a toll-free number that allows customers from all over the country to reach the business without incurring any long-distance charges.
14. Can I get an 866 number?
Yes, you absolutely can. These numbers are available from a variety of telecommunications providers and VoIP services.
15. Should my business number be toll-free?
This depends on the nature of your business. A local number might be best if you have a local customer base and want to emphasize your local roots. But a toll-free number can be beneficial if you want to attract customers from a wider geographic area.
16. Who uses the 866 area code?
Businesses of all sizes use the 866 area code, including small businesses, national corporations, and everything in between.
17. What is the best number to use for a business?
The “best” number for your business depends on your specific needs. A toll-free number like 866 could be a great option if you’re operating nationally or internationally. If you’re strictly local, a local area code might be best.
18. Is it better to have an 866 or 800 number?
In terms of functionality, there’s no difference between an 866 and an 800 number. The choice often comes down to availability and personal preference.
19. Is having an 866 or a local business number better?
This depends on your business’s scope. A toll-free number like 866 might be more beneficial if you serve customers nationwide. If you’re strictly local, a local number could emphasize your community connection. Both can be useful; it depends on your specific needs.
20. When did 866 numbers become popular?
In 1996, the FCC recognized the toll free 866 prefix as an official toll free number. Small businesses can secure 866 toll free numbers and use them the same way a traditional 800 number works. Toll free 866 numbers first became popular when the TV show American Idol used 866 numbers for their call-in-and-vote hotlines. Since their use on American Idol toll free 866 numbers have become the second most popular toll free number prefix used by small businesses today.
21. Is 866 an area code?
No, it’s a toll free number prefix. It’s called a prefix, not an area code, because it is a toll free number, not a local number representing a specific geographic location in North America.
