10-Digit Dialing in Montana Begins

Starting on Sunday, October 24, 2021, all calls in Montana will not be completed unless the 406 area code is dialed before the seven-digit telephone number.

In addition to manual dialing on a telephone, all services that use automated dialing equipment will be impacted and will need to be programmed to include 10-digit dialing. This includes, but is not limited to: fire alarm systems, security systems, life-saving systems, medical monitoring devices, mobile/wireless contact lists, call forward settings, and all other automated dialing systems.

The reason for the change is so that the Federal Communications Commission can roll out the new National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Montana is one of 37 states and 83 area codes that will be impacted. The Federal Communications Commission approved the designation of 988 as the new nationwide, three-digit phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The 988 hotline will provide a phone number for people in crisis to call so they can connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.

Some area codes, including Montana's 406 area code, currently allow seven-digit dialing to complete a local phone call - no area code required. But because of the FCC decision, area codes that allow seven-digit dialing and already have an 988 prefix assigned as a working number for any area within the state must move to 10-digit dialing (406 area code plus the seven-digit phone number) for local calls by October 24, 2021.

The North American Numbering Plan Administrator has worked with telcom providers to develop a plan for affected area codes to transition to 10-digit dialing. Beginning April 24, 2021, customers should use 10-digit dialing to complete a telephone call. During this period, a call attempted with seven-digit dialing will still be completed; however, 10-digit dialing will be permissible and encouraged for practice.