0500 numbers to be switched off June 2017
The majority of freephone numbers now begin with 0800 and 0808, making the 0500 prefix obsolete.
0500 number call costs:
0500 numbers are intended to be free to call and generally remain so from landline telephones including payphones, although most mobile phone companies will charge for calls.
Withdrawal of 0500 numbers:
As 0500 numbers are now quite rare and poorly recognised by the public, it is planned that they will be withdrawn from use by 3rd June 2017. Last numbers where issued in 1998. Numbers starting 08085 are being made available as a replacement.
KAT Communications, through our tier 1 network providers can offer businesses who still have 0500 numbers ‘matching’ modern freephone numbers that start with 08085. For example, the owner of the number 0500 123456 will be able to switch to the number 08085 123456.
We advise not to leave until the last minute, as even though replacing your number is a quick process, updating all those places where it may be advertised, such as on yell.com etc might take a little longer.
About the new 08085 numbers
Numbers starting with 0808 have been in use since 1997, alongside the older and better-known freephone numbers starting with the 0800 prefix.
The batch of phone numbers starting 0808 5 was made available in 2015, specifically to replace older ‘0500 numbers’.
Businesses do not have to use the 08085 number – the only requirement is that they stop using the old 0500 number by 3rd June 2017. If they prefer, they may replace their 0500 number with a completely different number instead.
If you currently own an 0500 number and are unsure about the next stages to take, and need advice on replacing the number then please contact our experienced team on 01302 260195 or via enquiries@79.170.44.128 #katcares #morethanjusttalk
