Frequently Asked Questions about
Toll-Free Numbers

If you can't find what you are looking for here, please feel free to call our Customer Solution department at 1-800-818-LINC (5462).

Why is Southern Linc changing the way it handles toll-free numbers?

When you make a phone call to a non-Southern Linc subscriber, it is routed out of the Southern Linc network and through another carrier's network. Some toll-free number users have experienced problems with outbound call completion because, in certain cases, the toll-free number alone does not provide sufficient information to the other carrier in order to complete the call. The addition of a local number should resolve most, if not all, of these dialing problems.

How do I know what my new local phone number is?

We send a text message to all customers with toll-free numbers that provides their new local phone number. This text message can be saved and referenced later. In addition, your local phone number will appear on every month's bill statement.

Do I have to pay extra to have both numbers?

No, there is no charge for having two lines for two telephone numbers. Toll-free service remains $5.00 a month, which includes Caller ID.

How do I use the two phone lines/numbers?

You can give out both your local and toll-free phone numbers since you can receive phone calls placed to either number.

When you call someone, the recipient's Caller ID will show your local number (not the toll-free number).

Please have people send text messages to your new local phone number rather than your toll-free number. Text messages sent to the toll-free number may not be received.

Please use your local number when sending Text Messages from your phone if you have two-way text messaging.

You will have the same voice mail account for both numbers (local or toll-free). You will only have to set it up once, and you will be able to retrieve messages left from callers calling either number.

If you do not already have a voice mail greeting set up, your callers will hear a message indicating that they have reached the voice mailbox of your local number.

What if the local phone number assigned to me is not local to my area?

In some cases, a local phone number may not be available in your area. A local phone number closest to your geographic area will be assigned. Callers can avoid long distance charges by using your toll-free number.