In Preparation for New Area Code Overlay, Start Making Calls Within Central IL With 10 Digits Now

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As available numbers are running low for the 217 area code, beginning in March of 2021, a 447 area code will overlay in 36 Central Illinois counties. The Illinois Commerce Commission is recommending people start making calls using the complete 10 digit phone number- area code plus the 7 digit phone number. Beginning February 27, 2021, the ten-digit dialing will be mandatory. Calls made without the ten digits will receive a recorded message reminding them.

Phone numbers with the new 447 area code will start being assigned March 27, 2021. Something to note about the change:

• Your current phone number, including the area code, will not change

• Local calls require an area code and the seven-digit phone number.

• Long-distance calls still require that a 1 be dialed first.

• Calls to 911, 211, and 811 will not be affected by the change and will still only be three digits.

• The price of calls will not change because of the overlay.

Source: SJR