Ofcom have announced important changes to the way callers are charged for calling all 084 numbers (such as 0844 and 0843) and 087 numbers (such as 0871 and 0870).

The changes are being actioned following consumer research which has found that the public are often left confused by the call chargers to these numbers. The changes will make the charges far more transparent and easier to understand, which is great news for both businesses who use these numbers and their customers.

Whether your number is supplied by 08Direct or another provider it is really important that all users are aware of the changes to ensure the public continue to feel comfortable calling non-geographic numbers.

What’s Changing?

The cost of all calls to 084 or 087 numbers will be split into two parts:

1. The customers phone provider will charge a connection fee. E.g. if BT is their landline provider then BT will charge a set connection charge.
2. The 08 number provider, such as 08Direct, will add a service charge.

What do current users need to do?

From 1st July 2015 you will need to begin clearly displaying the call charges alongside anywhere you advertise your number. From now you should begin to work through all your marketing materials to ensure you comply.

As part of every instance you will need to clearly display the following wording: “Calls to this number are charged at 5p per minute plus your telephone provider’s access charge.”

For detailed information please visit: http://www.ukcalling.info/industry, or if you would like to speak to one of our expert account managers please call 0844 504 4000 (calls to this number are charged at 5p per minute, plus your telephone providers access charge).