You will not have to change your phone number when the required 10 digit dialing becomes effective for our area on June 5^th.

The new 938 area code will be assigned only for new telephone numbers.  Area code 256 plus the other digits of the number will be necessary to complete calls within our area.

There will be no additional cost connected to the new dialing procedure. Special services that use three digit numbers such as 911 and 411 remain unchanged.

There are a few things you can do now to get ready for change.  Program all contacts in cell phones to include the correct area code.

Fax machines, internet dial up modems, and any equipment with automatic dialing features will need to be reprogrammed.

AT&T introduced the first area codes in 1947.  The American numbering Plans was designed to enable customers to dial their own long distance calls without the assistance of an operator.

Our area code system is shared with the entire United States, Canada, Bermuda, and 18 Caribbean nations.

When a particular area code runs out of numbers such as the 256 system, the North American Numbering Plan Administrator convenes an industry team in the affected area to determine a solution.

This team consists of representatives from companies that provide telecommunication services within the area.  The plan is then submitted to the state for approval.

If you have questions about the new system, please contact AT& T at 1-800-288-2020 or Farmers Telephone 256-638-2144.  The Chamber appreciates both of these companies for their service and being part of our membership.