How to Make a Call
There are four types of calls you may need to make while in the U.S.: local, long-distance, toll-free, and international.
We will use the InterExchange telephone number, 1.212.924.0446, to demonstrate how to use the phone system in America. Phone numbers in the U.S. consist of a 3-digit area code (e.g., 212), then a 7-digit local number (e.g., 924.0446).
Local, Regional and Long Distance Calls
If you call a number outside of your area using a landline (a non-mobile telephone), you will usually need to dial 1 plus the area code (e.g., 212) and then the 7-digit local number (e.g., 924.0446). Modern cell phones typically require you to dial the full 10-digit number, including the area code, regardless of whether the call is local or long-distance.
Some small towns with only one area code may only require you to dial the 7-digit local number. Ask your host or dial “0” for help from an operator.
Free Phone Numbers (Toll-Free)
There are several different prefixes for toll-free numbers, including 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 and 833. To dial a free phone number, simply dial 1 plus the 3-digit prefix, plus the 7-digit phone number. (Note: pay phones in some places, such as airports, may charge 25 cents for a toll-free call.) Toll-free numbers generally only work when dialing from within the U.S.
Numbers that start with 900 are premium rate calls that can be very expensive.
International Calls
When making international calls you must dial “011” followed by the country code, city code (you must drop the “0” before the city code) and number. These calls tend to be expensive, so you should not use your host’s telephone without their permission. It is much cheaper to use a phone card such as those provided by eKit (pay as you go). Most phone cards designed for international use will have better rates than your employer’s telephone plan.
Important info:
Emergency Phone Number: 911
Wherever you are in the U.S., you can dial 911 on any telephone in an emergency. You will be connected to emergency services (fire department, police, and ambulance). This is always a free call. Do not call 911 for non-emergencies!
For mental health emergencies, you can dial the National Suicide Prevention (988) Lifeline.
Coin-Operated Public Telephones
Coin-operated public telephones are not as common in the U.S. as they once were. While 50 cents used to be the common rate, pay phone usage has significantly declined, and rates can vary. In the U.S. you generally will not find phones where you can insert a phone card. Each pay phone will have directions printed on it. If you are calling outside your local area, dial the phone number and then a recorded message will tell you how much money you will need to insert into the phone. You should have several dollars worth of coins ready if you are making a long distance or an international call on a pay phone.
Phone Cards
You can use a phone card when using a public pay phone or someone’s private phone. However, unlike in most other countries, phone cards in the U.S. are not inserted into the telephone. Phone cards have a toll free number, 1.800 plus 7-digits, which you dial first. Follow the instructions printed directly on the phone card to make a call. (Disclaimer: the prevalence of phone cards has decreased with the rise of mobile phones and internet-based calling options.)
Collect Calls
Calling “collect” (also known as a “reverse charge call”) means that the person making the call does not pay for the call, but the person receiving the call does. Please be sure that the recipient of your call has told you it is okay for you to call them collect. Otherwise you should call them using a phone card. Collect calls cost more than dialing normally. Many of the large telephone operators in the U.S. no longer offer collect calls, but they can still be made through services like 1.800.COLLECT.
Directory Assistance
If you do not know a telephone number, you can call 411 for information (you will be charged a fee). You will need to tell the operator which city you are calling and the name of the person or business you are trying to reach. Directory assistance for toll-free numbers is 1.800.555.1212. Use this number when inquiring about phone numbers for airlines and bus companies.
Letters in a Phone Number
Phone numbers in the U.S. may contain letters, especially free phone numbers. When you look at the phone pad you will see that each number corresponds to 3 letters. Simply press the number where the letter appears; for example, 1.800.AUPAIRS would be 1.800.287.2477.
