Phone Number & Area Code Guides
In-depth guides on how area codes work, the history of the North American Numbering Plan, toll-free numbers, and how to protect yourself from phone scams.
The NANP is the numbering system that lets you dial any US, Canada, or Caribbean number without an operator. Here's how it's structured, why it has area codes, and what all the rules actually mean.
Updated July 2026
Why does New York have 212 and Los Angeles have 213? Why are some codes running out and others aren't? A complete history of area code assignments, splits, overlays, and exhaustion.
Updated July 2026
What's the difference between 800 and 888? Are 833 numbers really toll-free? How much do they cost? Everything you need to know about NANP toll-free codes, vanity numbers, and RespOrgs.
Updated July 2026
The one-ring scam, IRS impersonators, fake-tech-support calls — phone scams cost Americans $39 billion in 2023. Here's how to recognize them and protect yourself.
Updated July 2026
Since 2003, FCC rules have let you keep your phone number when you move — even out of state. Here's what that means for caller ID accuracy and reverse lookups.
Updated July 2026
Toll-free vs. local, vanity numbers, VoIP vs. landline, getting a 212 vs. 917 vs. 1-800 — a practical guide for startups and small businesses.
Updated July 2026