Need a new phone number? You may get the new 861 area code starting Feb. 24

(25 News Now) - People in the 309 area code requesting new service or an additional line may get a number with the new 861 area code - starting February 24.

The State of Illinois says the 861 area code will coexist with the 309 area code throughout the 309-area-code region.

The number of assignable numbers with a 309 area code is expected to deplete during the 4th quarter of 2023, according to a previous release from the Illinois Commerce Commission.

Just as 309 area code holders dial the full 10-digit number, those with 861 will do the same for all local calls.

Telephone numbers, including current area code, will not change.
The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay.
What is a local call now will remain a local call.
Customers in the overlay region will continue to dial 10 digits for local calls within and between the overlay area codes, and 1+10 digits for long-distance calls.
Customers can still dial just three digits to reach 911 and 988, as well as 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 or 811 if those are currently available in their community.

It’s recommended that people give out the full 10-digit number.