Where is Area Code 861?
Area code 861 is a newly established overlay for central Illinois, serving the same region as area code 309. This region encompasses important cities such as Peoria, Bloomington, and Normal. The overlay means both 861 and 309 cover the identical geographic area, including surrounding communities throughout central Illinois.
For official confirmation and geographic boundaries of area code 861, please contact:
- North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA)
NANPA Mailing Address
One Tower Center Boulevard
Suite 800
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
NANPA Customer Support
Tel: 1-866-623-2282
Email: support@nanpa.com
Fax: 571-363-3838
Website: NANPA
You may also consult the:
- Illinois Commerce Commission
527 East Capitol Avenue
Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: 1-800-524-0795
Website: Illinois Commerce Commission
What Time Zone is Area Code 861 in the USA?
Area code 861, like the entire 309 region of central Illinois, is in the Central Time Zone (CT). This area observes Central Standard Time (CST) and Central Daylight Time (CDT) during daylight saving months.
For official time zone resources:
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20899
Phone: 301-975-6478
Website: NIST
History of the 861 Area Code
Area code 861 was created as an overlay to address number depletion in the 309 area. The need for more phone numbers stemmed from population growth, business expansion, and the increasing use of mobile and internet-connected devices across central Illinois.
Key History Points:
- 2022: The Illinois Commerce Commission and NANPA announced plans for the 861 overlay in response to the exhaust of 309 numbers.
- February 24, 2023: Area code 861 officially went into service as an overlay to 309. Existing lines kept their 309 numbers, but new numbers in the same service area may now be assigned 861.
- Ten-digit dialing became mandatory for all local calls in the region, regardless of area code.
How Many People Use the 861 Area Code?
Area code 861 is newly implemented, so most residents and businesses in Peoria, Bloomington, and Normal still use area code 309. As new phone numbers are issued, particularly for new residents, mobile phones, and businesses, the use of 861 will increase in the coming years.
The combined 861/309 region serves a population of over 700,000 people. The number of active 861 lines will continue to rise as demand for telephone numbers continues.
Is the 861 Area Code Toll-Free?
No, area code 861 is not a toll-free area code. It is a standard geographic code designed for central Illinois. Calls to or from area code 861 may incur charges based on your specific calling plan and provider.
U.S. toll-free area codes include: 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888.
For more on toll-free numbers:
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
45 L Street NE
Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 1-888-225-5322
Website: FCC