New Area Code to be Introduced in Upstate South Carolina

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Following the announcement of the South Carolina Public Surface Commission (PSC) in November 2023, Upstate South Carolina is set to receive a new 821 area code beginning August 19, 2024. The new code will supplement but not replace the existing 864 area code, marking the end of a six-month grace period initiated in January 2024.

All Local Calls to Include Area Code

Starting from Wednesday, July 19, all local calls within the 864 area code will be made using ten digits, i.e., the area code followed by the seven-digit number. This sounds a reminder to residents that even local calls will have to include the area code after this grace period. After August 19, any new telephone lines for services may be assigned numbers using the new 821 area code.

Instructions and Information for Consumers

The PSC has provided the following facts and instructions for consumers:

Your current telephone number, including the current area code, will not change. You may be assigned a phone number with the 821 area code if you seek new phone service on and after August 19, 2024. All local calls, including calls within the same area code, will require dialing the area code and the telephone number. Long-distance calls will continue to be dialed using 1 plus the area code and the telephone number. Your local call now will remain a local call regardless of the introduction of the new code. The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the introduction of the overlay. Dialing three digits will still reach 911, 988, 211, 311, 511, and 811 where available.

Reprogramming Services and Equipment

All services, applications, software, tools, and equipment previously programmed with just seven digits should be reprogrammed to recognize 821 as a valid area code. More importantly, they should be reprogrammed to dial ten digits instead of seven. This applies to business stationery, advertising materials, personal checks, and person or pet ID tags. Also, important safety devices such as medical alert devices and alarm/security systems must be set up to use ten-digit dialing.

Contact and Assistance for Reprogramming

Consumers who are unsure about reprogramming their equipment, particularly medical alerts, and security systems are urged to contact their providers immediately. Providers can assist with the necessary changes between January 19, 2024, and July 19, 2024. For any other inquiries or issues, locals can reach out to the South Carolina Public Surface Commission (SC PSC) at 803.896 for assistance.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE: New area code for the Upstate?