FCC to Establish 988 as the New Nationwide Number for Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Transition to 10-digit Local Dialing.

On July 16, 2020, the FCC adopted rules to establish 988 as the new nationwide, easy-to-remember 3-digit number for Americans in crisis. The new rule requires all providers, starting July 16, 2022, to route all calls to 988 to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Until then, Americans needing help should continue to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 800.273.TALK (800.273.8255).  

In preparation for the new 988 number, the FCC is also transitioning to 10-digit dialing for all local calls as some area codes use 988. The FCC has adopted the follow timeline for transition:

• Beginning April 24, 2021, to become accustomed to 10-digit dialing, consumers should start dialing 10 digits (3-digit area code + 7-digit telephone number) for all local calls. If they forget and dial just 7 digits, their call will still be completed.
• Beginning October 24, 2021, consumers must dial 10-digits (area code + telephone number) for all local calls. On and after this date, local calls dialed with only 7 digits may not be completed, and a recording will inform you that your call cannot be completed as dialed. Consumers must hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number.
• Beginning July 16, 2022, dialing “988” will route calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.