Make Sure All Your Toll Free Calls Are Really Free.

Toll free calls through 800, 888, 877 and 866 area codes are always free. However some calls can end up in unanticipated charges if the caller does not carefully monitor taped messages and information on services provided through the call.

Companies that provide audio entertainment or informational services may charge for calls to toll free numbers, but only if they follow the Federal Trade Commission’s regulations.

These regulations require a company to ask you to pay for entertainment or informational services with a credit card or to make billing arrangements before they provide the service. Toll free calls should always be free of charge unless the caller agrees otherwise in advance.

For a company to charge for a call to an 800, 888, 877 or 886 number, it must obtain the billing arrangement in advance and explain exactly what the charges are for. The company must provide all relevant information about the specifics of the arrangement, including the company’s name and address, rates and rate changes, and why you are being charged.

Here’s how to reduce the risk of unauthorized charges:

Remember that companies are prohibited from charging you for calls to toll free area codes unless they set up a valid agreement with you in advance and provide some additional service that you are being billed for. You should never be charged for calling a toll free number. If you are, you have the right to complain. Check out the FCC's web site for more information on disputes.

Recognize that not all numbers beginning with "8" are toll free. The current toll free area codes in the United States and Canada are 800, 888, 877 and 866. At some point 855, 844, 833 and 822 may be added to the inventory of area codes.