The Federal Communications Commission is permanently changing NM to a 10-digit telephone dialing system for 575 and 505 area codes. The 10-digit dialing transition period began on April 24, and phone calls using seven digits will still be connected until October 24, when use of the 10-digit dialing becomes mandatory. At that time a recorded reminder will notify callers of the requirement for dialing the area code along with the seven-digit number for all local calls.

The FCC has established a new three-digit “988” nationwide number to connect people in mental crises to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. As some local seven-digit phone numbers begin with 988, the 10-digit dialing will prevent the system from mis-routing the new 988 calls intended for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

What will remain the same?

• Your telephone number, including current area code, will not change.
• The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the dialing change.
• What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.
• You will continue to dial 1+ area code + telephone number for all long distance calls.
• You can still dial just three digits to reach 711 (relay services) and 911 (emergency services).
• Any 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, or 811 services available in your community can still be reached by dialing their three-digit codes.
• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can still be reached by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Customers with questions about the dialing change should contact their local service provider.