Why Do ISPS List Local Connection NumbersThat Are Long Distance Numbers

[Harry]

My ISP has a v.92 dialup connection but it lists that local connection with a different area code or what they call local toll which I think would cost 5 cents per minute unless AT&T which I recently switched to doesn't have local toll fees.

I don't understand why ISPs list some local connection numbers from your city with a long distance number or different area code then your city. Unless there is something I don't know, the different area code would cost me 5 or 7 cents per minute which at like 150 hours or more per month would rack up some unnecessary bills just so I could use their v.92 connection.

Does that make sense to anyone, why ISPs list local connection numbers from your city with a long distance number. And I'm not talking about an 800 or 888 number either. It's the actual area code of that different area.

[TwoRails]

They normally list all that is in your area, whether local enough or not to be free. Not all ISPs have local numbers, so if one is not listed, then they don't have one.

[Strider]

I think ISP list numbers that they think might be a local number, but they usually state that the numbers they list for the area might not be a local number and to check to make sure that they are and of course they usually state that they aren't responsible for any telephone charges. Of course you have to usually have to read that statement somewhere, but I'm pretty sure it is there somewhere.

[jeresimo]

Before you include any local numbers in your area to connect to your ISP. It's always recommended to double check with your local Telco. Some ISP's don't know that what they listed is not really local to your area. You might be surprised later on why you are billed using a regional or long distance call. I had this bad experience many years ago with NetZero.

[glc]

Just because it's a different area code doesn't necessarily mean it's not a local call. The ONLY way to find out for sure is from your telco, and the ISP should have a disclaimer.

[SARGE]

In the Dallas area alone we have 4 different area codes (10-digit dialing). This was necessitated when so many folks got cell phones, etc. Unless you have a 1+ in front of the number to dial, it shouldn't be a ld call. Use your phone and dial the ISP #. If a modem answers you're in the good.

[glc]

The 1+ isn't even a valid criteria here - in the 847 area code here ALL calls must be made with 1+, even local.