If you thought 416, 647, and 437 were already too many Toronto area codes to keep track of — get ready to add one more to the list.
Starting Saturday, April 26, a new area code — 942, will officially join the mix in the region currently served by the original trio. The change comes as a response to the growing demand for phone numbers across the GTA.
With more people, more devices, and more businesses than ever, The 6ix is simply running out of digits.
The 942 area code will start being assigned to new numbers beginning April 26. That means if you’re getting a new phone number after that date — whether for your personal cell, your business, or even that second number you swore you didn’t need — you might end up with 942 instead of one of the more familiar Toronto area codes.
But if you already have a number with 416, 647, or 437, don’t stress — your number isn’t going anywhere. You’ll keep your current digits. The same goes for your local calling area, which also isn’t changing.
All local calls will still require 10-digit dialling (so no slacking on that area code), and three-digit service numbers like 911, 988, and 311 will still work the same way.
Businesses that use phone systems with restrictions on long-distance calling may need to update their settings to ensure 942 numbers aren’t accidentally blocked.
Here’s all you need to know:
- Existing numbers will keep the same area code
- Local calling areas won’t change and will remain the same
- All local calls require 10 digits (area code + local number)
- Special numbers such as 211, 311, 411, 611, 911 and 988 will still be dialed only using three digits
- Businesses using communications systems that restrict long-distance calling will need to add 942 as a local area code
So, while it might take a minute to get used to seeing 942 pop up on your screen, just know it’s the newest member of Toronto’s ever-growing area code family.
For more information about new area codes in Canada, you can visit the Telecommunications Alliance’s website.
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