855 Area Code: Everything You Need to Know About Toll-Free Numbers

Introduction

Have you received a call from an 855 phone number? Are you a business interested in establishing a toll-free number or setting up a professional customer service call center? Then, this blog post is for you!

Because 855 phone numbers are toll-free and not located in any city or location, businesses commonly use them for national inbound and outbound calling. For example, you may see them as outbound numbers used by telemarketers or inbound numbers for customer service departments.

The 855 Area Code is perfect for businesses that want to reach customers across North America. For example, if your business is in San Francisco but serves people on the east coast via your website or app, an area code with this much flexibility will make it easier to find what they need without having any long-distance charges!

This guide will explain everything you need to know about the 855 toll-free number and area code prefix.

What is an 855 Area Code Number?

An 855 number is a toll-free number, which means it is free for callers to dial and not tied to a specific location.

Because the 855 area code is a toll-free number, businesses can advertise this number for customers to call without incurring long-distance charges. These numbers can be a great way to increase calls without worrying about the cost or to establish a single phone number that serves customers across numerous locations.

Additionally, 855 numbers are easy to remember and are not restricted to any specific region, so businesses across the country can use them.

These numbers are accessible to people throughout all 20 counties in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), including the United States and its territories, Canada, the Bahamas, Bermuda, and others.

Some businesses use 855 numbers as their primary customer service number, while others use it as a backup or for specific campaigns.

No matter how businesses use the number, establishing an 855 area code can be a valuable tool. As the global market continues to expand, the use of toll-free numbers is likely to increase. Businesses that want to stay ahead of the curve should consider using an 855 number to improve customer service and reach new markets.

The availability of 855 numbers makes it easy and affordable to get started.

Where is Area Code 855 Located?

Unlike most local area codes, the 855 area code does not refer to a specific location. Instead, it is a non-geographic area code prefix used for toll-free calls.

It is the same as a 1-800 number—the oldest and most common toll-free number.

The caller could be located anywhere if you receive calls from an 855 phone number. However, 855 numbers are generally associated with businesses in North America.

Defining Toll-Free Numbers

A toll-free number is a phone number that allows the caller to dial without incurring any charges. It is different from a regular local phone number, which would require the caller to pay for the call if they’re using a landline.

Other toll-free area codes include 800, 888, 877, 866, 844, and 833.

What Is the Difference Between a Prefix and an Area Code?

A telephone prefix is a set of numbers added to a phone number to route calls to the right destination.

The telephone system is made up of many different parts, all of which work together to connect callers. Telephone prefixes are an essential part of this system. Each prefix is different, and most correspond to a separate area or region. While there are many different prefixes, each has a specific purpose.

The prefix 855 is used for nationwide toll-free calls. Calling a toll-free number means the caller does not have to pay for the call. They also allow the call to be routed anywhere in the country.

In contrast, a telephone area code is a three-digit code used to designate a specific geographic region. Area codes route calls within a particular region and are also used to help identify the location of a caller.

For example, the area code for New York City is 212. So, when someone from New York City makes a call, their phone number will begin with 212, which will help the called party know where the call is originating.

Similarly, when someone outside New York City tries to call a New York number, they must dial 1 + the area code (212) + the 7-digit phone number. Again, this helps route the call to the correct location.

Telephone prefixes and area codes are both crucial parts of the telephone system. They have different purposes, but both help ensure that calls are routed & charged accurately.

What is the Difference Between an 855 and 800 Prefix?

The difference between an 855 and an 800 number is that the FCC introduced 855 numbers in 2010, so 855 numbers are more available because they haven’t been in use as long.

Besides that, the two toll-free numbers work the same.

How Is the 855 Prefix Different From Other Toll-Free Numbers?

855 numbers are not as widely used as other toll-free prefixes, such as 800, 888, or 866. This can make your number more unique and less likely to receive misdials.

You are also more likely to receive the number you want when choosing an 855 prefix instead of a more popular one.

Other than that, all toll-free numbers are the same.

Examples of Popular 855 Numbers

Have you seen one of these numbers on your caller ID? Below are several examples of popular 855 numbers that people often search for.

855-703-7562 – This number has been reported as a robo-call survey scam.
855-973-1040 – This number is associated with the delivery service DoorDash.
855-757-7372 – This is the customer service number for Xfinity Prepaid.
855-836-1987 – This old Google customer service number is no longer usd by the company.

Types of 855 Calls and How to Find Out Who is Calling

You may get calls from the 855 area code for various reasons. The 855 toll-free number is a pre-fix used by many legitimate businesses. Like any other phone number, it can also be used by spammers and scam operations who mass distribute robo calls or use deceptive practices. For example, a common type of toll-free call is one that deploys a recorded message or automated voice (i.e., a machine or computer instead of a live operator). Another common example is the “ringless voicemail robocall,” which results in a voicemail being left without your phone ringing or receiving a missed call.

What is a Robocall?

Robocalls are common with toll-free numbers. Robocalls are automated phone calls that deliver a pre-recorded message. They can be used for various purposes, including political campaigns, customer service notifications, and debt collection. Robocalls have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their low cost and ease of use. However, they have also been criticized for being annoying, intrusive, and a source of scams and fraud.

Robocalls are typically made using automated dialers that can quickly call thousands of numbers in a very short amount of time. They often feature a recorded voice speaking on behalf of the caller, delivering specific information or prompting people to take action. Many robocalls also use interactive voice response (IVR) technology, which allows people to respond to the call by pressing numbers or speaking words into their phone.

Legal vs. Illegal Robocalls

Federal and state laws regulate robocalls, and it is illegal for companies to send robocalls without the recipient’s consent. However, with the rise of automated dialing technology, it has become increasingly difficult to enforce these laws.

There are some exceptions for certain types of calls that are allowed without consent. These exceptions include political calls, debt collection calls, and informational calls such as school closings or weather alerts. It’s important to note that while these types of calls may be legal, they still must comply with other rules related to caller identification, message content, and contact frequency.

It is important to be aware of the laws that govern robocalls to protect yourself from illegal or unwanted calls. You can also take action by using tools such as the Do Not Call Registry or call-blocking applications. In addition, you should always be wary of any unknown numbers or suspicious calls. If you receive a robocall that you think may be illegal or fraudulent, it is best to hang up and report it to the authorities.

While robocalls can be useful in certain situations, they should always be used responsibly and in compliance with all applicable laws. By understanding the regulations around robocalls and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself, you can help ensure that it remains a legitimate and beneficial tool for communication.

How to Avoid Robocall Scams

The Federal Trade Commissionrecommends three key stepsconsumers can take to help reduce unwanted calls:Hang up. Block. Report.

Hang up.If you pick up the phone and get a recorded sales pitch from a company you haven’t given your written permission to, hang up. The call is illegal. Don’t speak to them. Don’t press a button to supposedly remove your name from a list, as that could result in even more calls. Hang up. Furthermore, alert your employees that if they see a call that says it’s from the IRS or Social Security Administration, don’t trust it. Scammers know how to fake the Caller ID information.
Block.Reduce the number of unwanted calls by using call-blocking technologies available through phone providers. Options will differ depending on the model of phone, service provider and if a traditional landline or internet phone service is used. Visitftc.gov/callsfor advice.
Report.After hanging up, report the unwanted or illegal call to the FTC atftc.gov/complaint. The more information they have about the call, the better they can target law enforcement efforts.

You can also report scams to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) using their ScamTracker.

How Do I Get an 855 Phone Number?

The first step to acquiring an 855 number is to contact a telephone service provider. If you also need help answering your calls, a call center like CMS can also help.

The service provider will help determine whether an 855 number is available and, if so, will reserve the number for you.

Once the number is reserved, you will need to set up call forwarding so that calls to your 855 number are routed to your desired phone line.

Sometimes a monthly fee may be charged to maintain the 855 number. However, many service providers offer toll-free numbers at no additional cost. As a result, acquiring an 855 number is a relatively simple and affordable process.

Benefits of Using an 855 Vanity Number for Business

Studies have shown that customers are more likely to trust businesses that use toll-free numbers. They are also more likely to remember these numbers. As a result, companies that employ 855 numbers tend to see increased customer satisfaction levels. In addition, they tend to receive more calls overall, as customers are more likely to call when they know it will not cost them anything.

Businesses can also save money on customer acquisition costs by using 855 numbers. By making it easier for customers to reach them, companies can reduce friction in the customer experience and increase sales.

855 numbers offer a variety of benefits for businesses. By increasing customer satisfaction levels and lowering customer acquisition costs, they can help businesses to thrive.

Here are a few other benefits of establishing an 855 number.

1. The Ability to Track the Effectiveness of Advertising Campaigns

By using a unique 855 number for each campaign, businesses can see exactly how many calls they received due to that particular ad. This valuable information can help companies decide where to allocate their marketing budget in the future.

An 855 number can also help businesses to track the effectiveness of their online advertising. By placing a unique 855 number on a landing page, companies can see how many calls originated from that location. This information can be used to improve the effectiveness of future campaigns.

2. An Increase in Customer Confidence

The 855 prefix is only assigned to toll-free numbers, which are typically used by established businesses that care about their brand. As a result, having an 855 number can help increase customer confidence.

An 855 number prominently displayed on your website and advertising materials conveys to customers that you are a professional, credible business they can trust.

3. A Nationwide Presence

An 855 number allows businesses to appear larger than they might be in reality, lending them an air of sophistication and success. In some situations, customers may be more inclined to do business with a company they perceive to have a nationwide presence.

If a business only has a local number, customers outside the area may hesitate to call, as they may believe the business doesn’t service their area. It also creates a weakened perception of the company by suggesting that they are not significant enough to have a toll-free number.

Overall, using an 855 number is a smart way for businesses to boost their image and reach more customers with minimal effort and expense.

4. Ability to Have Multiple Lines and Extensions

When you set up an 855 number for your business, you’re given the option to add additional lines and extensions.

This can be helpful if you want a dedicated line for customer service, for example, or if you need to route calls to different departments within your company.

You can also use extensions to create a virtual office, which can be handy if you have employees who work from home or are frequently on the road. In this way, customers can always reach someone at your company, no matter where they are. Ultimately, you can save money by not having to rent or maintain physical office space.

Each extension can be configured to ring directly to a specific phone number, so calls will always be forwarded to the right person. And because 855 numbers can be used with VoIP systems, setting up additional lines and extensions is simple and cost-effective.

So if you’re looking for a way to streamline your business’s telephone system, an 855 number with additional lines and extensions may be the perfect solution.

5. Ability to Use an Answering Service or Call Center

Businesses that use an 855 number can benefit from a professional phone answering service to help take their calls.

Answering services are beneficial because they help businesses to manage their calls, schedule appointments, take messages, and perform other phone-based business processes.

They also help businesses stay connected to their customers and employees.

With an answering service, businesses only have to pay for the time they use. Unlike hiring an hourly employee, who is paid for their time regardless of how often they are on the phone, answering services don’t charge you for the idle time between calls. As a result, companies that use an answering service can save money.

In addition, businesses that use an answering service can benefit from the flexibility of the service. Answering services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means that businesses can choose when and how often to use the service. For example, companies can forward calls to the answering service during lunch or after hours when their regular office is closed for the day.

Do I Need a Toll-Free Answering Service?

Establishing a toll-free number is an easy first step, but what happens when customers call?

If you’ve been in business for any length of time, you know that excellent customer service is key to success. Answering the phone promptly and courteously is one way to show your customers that you care about their business. But what happens when you can’t be available to answer the phone yourself? That’s where an answering service comes in.

If you’re unsure whether your business needs an answering service, here are a few things to consider.

Do you need someone to answer calls after hours? Answering services are available 24/7, so you’ll never have to worry about missing a call.
Do you receive a lot of calls? If your business constantly gets calls, it may be beneficial to use an answering service as backup support. Answering services can help handle excess call volume and ensure you aren’t missing opportunities or providing a poor customer experience by making callers wait on hold.
Do you want to avoid voicemail? Having a live operator answer your calls can give your business a more personal touch. Callers who reach voicemail are likely to hang up, so having a live person answer the phone can resolve situations faster and convert more business.
Is your staff distracted? If your regular office staff is bogged down with calls, an answering service can be used tohelp take some of the pressure off of your employees and free up their time.
Are you spending a lot on staffing? Paying employees to cover phone calls can get expensive, especially if you operate 24/7. Answering services are more affordable than hiring and managing employees.

Answering services can be a valuable asset for businesses of all sizes. If you’re struggling to keep up with your calls, an answering service can help.

If you’d like to learn more about how an answering service like CMS can help your business, click here.

How to Pick the Best Answering Service

When choosing a phone answering service for your business, it is crucial to consider the following factors:

How many calls do you receive per day?
How many lines does your phone system have?
What are your callers’ needs?
What are your business hours?
What tasks will the answering service perform?
Do you have any specific software or integrations required to handle your calls?
What is your budget?

Once you have considered these factors, you can choose an answering service that is right for your business.

CMS is a leading answering service provider specializing in custom call center solutions tailored to the needs of your business. We offer various phone answering solutions, including live operator, automated attendant, and virtual receptionist services. We also offer many features, such as call forwarding, call recording, dispatching, and voicemail.

Establish a Professional Call Center with CMS

Your toll-free number is the fastest way for customers to reach you for information, assistance, and, most importantly, orders. So let CMS show you how to use an 855 toll-free number to increase your customer base, sales volume, and profitability by making it easier for customers to reach you.

When you choose CMS, you choose a company with a long history of providing excellent service. We have more than 50 years of experience, so we know how to give the best possible service to our clients. In addition, our live representatives are available 24/7, so you can always reach us when you need us.

So why wait? Contact us today and see what we can do for you!

855 Area Code: Everything You Need to Know About Toll-Free Numbers - CMS (2024)