Toll-free number

Definition
A toll-free number is a telephone numbers with a distinct three-digit code that can be dialed from landlines with no charge to the person placing the call. Such numbers allow callers to reach businesses and/or individuals out of the area without being charged a long-distance fee for the call.

Overview
Toll-free numbers are particularly common for customer-service calling. Toll-free service has traditionally provided potential customers and others with a free and convenient way to contact businesses. Wireless callers, however, will be charged for the airtime minutes used during a toll-free call unless they have an "unlimited calling" plan.

Customers can also send text messages to toll-free numbers, so long as those numbers are "text enabled," and businesses can send texts in response.