What to Do When Your Call Comes From the 202 Area Code
The 202 area code is a seven-digit number that is part of the North American Numbering Plan. It is a toll-free area code used for both personal and business calls from out-of-towners. However, there is more to the 202 area code than meets the eye. We’ll go over its history, how it got its name, and how it differs from other area codes. Also, learn what to do when your call comes from the 202 area code.
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202 area code is a seven-digit number
When calling a local telephone number, the 202 area code is great for calling out-of-town numbers. People who live in Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Bethesda will see these numbers as local. This is because these numbers are not based on zip codes or city names, but on a locality. You should also be sure to include the area code on personal checks and on your website.
The 202 area code is also common for receiving calls from IRS scammers. This scam typically uses caller ID spoofing to convince victims that they owe money to the IRS and will be arrested if the bill isn’t paid. While it is unlikely to be an actual IRS call, you should be cautious about answering the phone if the number is unfamiliar. While many scams are sophisticated, the 202 area code may be a legitimate local number.
It is part of the North American Numbering Plan
The 202 area code has long been a popular choice for local telephone numbers. It is the original area code set up by AT&T in 1947. Many prominent figures have the area code as a tattoo or in their name. Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl is a native of the area. Former Washington Nationals slugger Bryce Harper is from the 202 area code. Similarly, actor Dave Bautista reps the 202 code as his tattoo.
The North American Numbering Plan (NANP) divides the nation into numbering plan areas. These area codes are uniquely assigned to telephones and are encoded with a three-digit prefix known as an area code. In the United States, the 202 area code is used for local phone numbers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. You may find this area code when you receive calls from the IRS.
It is used for business and personal calls from out-of-towners
If you are looking for a telephone number that reflects the area that you are in, the 202 area code is your best option. Not only will your customers be able to find you, but you can also be sure that the person on the other end is a local. Residents of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, and Bethesda will all be considered locals when calling these numbers.
If you’re interested in expanding your business into the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, then DYL is a great option. The 202 area code covers the capital city of the United States. The 202 area code also serves Maryland and Virginia residents. Over 5 million people live in the D.C. metropolitan area, and the 202 area code serves the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
It is a toll-free zone
Until the fall of 2021, the 202 area code was still a toll-free zone. The DC Public Service Commission has authorized the rollout of the new area code 771 in the District of Columbia. The 771 number will be distributed city-wide at that time. During the transition period, there will be six months for network preparation and customer education. From November to March, the 202 area code will be a toll-free zone.
For businesses in the Washington DC metro area, the 202 area code is ideal for local calling. Callers from out-of-town will never need to provide an area code when calling the 202 area code. Moreover, residents of Alexandria, Falls Church, and Bethesda will be treated as locals when dialing the 202 area code number. This way, people from all of these areas can contact each other with ease.