How Will The 812 Area Code Change Affect Me?

Press release from State Rep. Jud McMillin

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - State Rep. Jud McMillin (R-Brookville) wants his constituents to know that the 812 area code is projected to run out of numbers in 2015. To make more seven-digit phone numbers available, state regulators will choose from two different options: the “overlay” or the “geographic split,” which are outlined below.

“The area code change will affect many Hoosiers living in Southeast Indiana,” said Rep. McMillin. “I encourage everyone to understand what this change means and how it can impact their lives.”

Under the overlay proposal:

-All Hoosiers in the 812 area code would keep their current 812 numbers.

-A new area code would be added and assigned to new telecom customers/phones/devices throughout the region.

-10-digit dialing (are code + number) for local calls would eventually become mandatory throughout the 812 area.

-Toll calls would still use 11 digits (1 + area code + number).

-Consumers would not need to reprogram existing cell phones, fax machines, etc. with new numbers.

Under the geographic split proposal:

-Some existing customers would keep their current numbers while others would be assigned new numbers with the new area code.

-7-digit dialing would stay in effect for local calls.

-Toll calls would still use 11 digits (1+ area code + number).

-Consumers with assigned new numbers would need to reprogram existing cell phones, fax machines, etc.

-Businesses, not-for-profit organizations, schools, government entities and other customers would be required to pay for new signage, stationery, business cards, advertising, etc. showing their new numbers.

According to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC), most states have needed to add new area codes in the last 20 years due to the proliferation of wireless phones and other communication devices.

Those who wish to submit their comments may do so in two ways:

Participate in one of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission’s (IURC) public field hearings, which will be scheduled for early 2013. More information can be found at www.in.gov/oucc/2818.htm as it becomes available.

Send written comments to the OUCC, including name, mailing address and a reference to IURC Case No. 44233.

Written comments can be submitted online at www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm. They can also be emailed to uccinfo@oucc.in.gov, faxed to (317) 232-5923 or mailed to the Consumer Services Staff at Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204.