...here's what you need to know.

The new 769 area code will overlay the existing 601 area code and will be
assigned only to new numbers within the 601/769 region after March 14, 2005.
The new 769 area code does not replace the 601 area code, and customers
will not have to change their telephone numbers. However, because two area
codes will now exist in the same geographic region, beginning March 14,
2005, it will be necessary to dial ten digits – the appropriate area code, 601
or 769, plus the seven-digit telephone number – for all local and expanded
local calls. Local calling rates will not be affected by this change. Special
services that use three-digit numbers (911 and 411) as well as 1 + ten-digit
long distance calling will remain unchanged.

• Since your area code remains the same, there is no need to reprint checks, stationery, other printed materials or signs as long as they already contain your area code.
  
  
• Customers should reprogram all stored local telephone numbers to include the area code for services like Call Forwarding, Speed Calling, Call Selector, and Call Block.
  
  
• Customers should also reprogram equipment like fax machines, modems, Internet connections, PBX systems (consult your PBX vendor), wireless phones or any equipment with automatic dialing features.
  
  
• Customers who have security systems need to contact their vendor to determine reprogramming needs for ten-digit dialing.
  
  
• Customers with the 601 area code should begin dialing ten digits for all local and expanded local calls, so that by March 14, 2005, when ten-digit dialing becomes mandatory, it’ll be second nature.
  
  
• Businesses can test their equipment by using one of the following test call numbers: 769.769.1111 inside the Jackson calling area or 1.769.769.1111 if outside the Jackson calling area.

All calls to your BellSouth^® MemoryCall^® or BellSouth^® Voice Mail service access number, as well as your voice mailbox number, must now include the area code. Customers with voice mail from companies other than BellSouth should contact their vendor for reprogramming needs.

Call 1.800.964.7941 if you have questions regarding this information. If you are hearing- or speech-impaired and use a TTY, please call 1.888.341.2355 (within BellSouth territory) or 1.800.251.5325 (outside BellSouth territory).

...here's what you need to know.

You may need to reprogram certain telecommunications equipment and services to include either the 601 area code or the new 769 overlay area code. Contact your telecommunications vendor for more information.