How to Set Up a Toll-Free Number

Explain your toll-free service needs to a customer service representative.

For business owners, toll free numbers offer an enticing, easy way to subtly promote customer service from the very first interaction with a patron. Customers can call a toll-free number at no-cost to them. Your customers will appreciate the fact that you have taken this small step for their convenience. Toll-free numbers are not just for business. The average person who wishes to save their incoming callers money can set up a toll-free number as well.

Instructions

1. Decide if you prefer a vanity number or a traditional toll-free number. A vanity number spells out your company name or whichever word you choose, while a traditional toll-free number is a randomly assigned series of numbers.

2. Call your current long distance provider, and ask for a toll-free number price quote.

3. Call a toll-free service provider, and ask for a toll-free number price quote. Consult the Resource section for a contact list of toll service providers.

4. Select the toll-free service provider that offers the best deal. The provider will set up your service by assigning you a toll-free number that is routed to your local telephone number.

Tips & Warnings

• Parents of college students or children in boarding schools can set up a toll-free number so their kids can call home for free at any time.

References

• Federal Communications Commission: What Is a Toll-free Number and How Does It Work?
• Gaebler: Toll Free Numbers

Resources

• SMS/800: Service Providers