Toll Free Fax Numbers - 844 Area Code Coming Soon

Earlier this year, the FCC authorized SMS/800 to release the new 844 toll free area code. It seemed like a long time away back-when, but the date is fast approaching.

Currently, the 844 toll free area code is scheduled to be released on December 7, 2013 at Noon Eastern Time.

Since FAXAGE operates as its own Resporg (owner of toll-free numbers), we expect to be able to offer new 844 Internet fax numbers very soon after their release.

FCC Announcement
"It is in the public interest for the industry and consumers to have continued access to numbering resources, including toll free numbers. ... The Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) authorizes SMS/800, Inc. to open the 844 toll free code on December 7, 2013 at noon, Eastern Time." (FCC. July 31, 2013 Letter to SMS/800, Inc.)

What does this mean to me?
As is usual with technology, the answer to that question is 'it depends'. Here are a couple of things to consider, though:

If you are in charge of a phone system or equipment, you'll want to make sure that it is prepared to recognize 844 as a toll free area code and dial it the same way that 800, 888, 877, 866 and 855 numbers are dialed today.

If you use a smaller phone provider (as opposed to the local telephone company) or a VoIP service, you may want to check with them and make sure they're prepared to complete calls to 844 numbers on your behalf.

What about sending faxes to the new 844 numbers?
FAXAGE will be fully prepared from day 1 to complete outgoing email fax requests to 844 numbers.

Happy faxing!