UNDERSTANDING THE NEW AREA CODES AND THE 'TEN-NUMBER NUMBER'

Four new area codes have been assigned to "overlay" the current four area codes for Eastern Massachusetts. Starting on April 2, 2001, new area code 857 will overlay the current 617 area code, 339 will overlay 781, 351 will overlay 978, and 774 will overlay 508.

Due to a high demand for new telephone service and after running out of possible telephone numbers in the area codes for Eastern Massachusetts, Verizon Communications decided to 'overlay' the existing area codes with new ones. There will now be two area codes for the same geographic area. The new (or overlaid) area codes will be assigned to those who receive new service, and the old area codes will continue to apply to those who have already established telephone service. The 413 area code will remain the only area code for Western Massachusetts.

What is changing?
The way local calls are dialed is changing. Instead of dialing the usual seven-digit numbers to make local calls, as of April 2, 2001 the appropriate area code must be added on, even if you are calling from the same area code. Verizon calls this system of dialing the 'Ten-number Number". Use of the Ten-number Number dialing system started on September 15th of this year, to get customers used to using it.

What is not changing?
A local call is still a local call and a toll call is still a toll call. Even if a "1" is dialed before the area code when making a local call, the call will still go through as a local call. Rates will not change as a result of the new area codes. Emergency assistance can still be reached by dialing only 9-1-1.

Questions?
Any questions regarding the new area codes may be directed to Verizon at 1-877-554-3685 or visit their website at http://www.Verizon.com/support/areacode.html.

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