Who is affected and when does the new 353 area code become effective?

Beginning September 15, 2023, customers in the 608 area code region may be assigned a number in the new 353 area code when they request new service or an additional line. The 353 area code will co-exist everywhere in this region with the 608 area code. The overlay does not require customers to change their existing area code or phone numbers, or how they dial their calls. Customers receiving the 353 area code are required to dial the area code and phone number for all local calls, just as customers with telephone numbers from the 608 area code do today.

What will customers need to do?

Customers in the overlay region should:

• Continue to dial 10 digits for all local calls, including calls within the same area code.
• Continue to identify their telephone number as a 10-digit number, and include the area code when giving the number to friends, family, business associates, customers, etc.
• Ensure that all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment recognize the new 353 area code as a valid area code, and continue to store or program telephone numbers as 10-digit numbers. Some examples are: stored telephone numbers in contact lists in wireless phones, PBXs, fax machines, Internet dial-up numbers, speed dialers, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, medical alert devices, safety alarm security systems and gates, ankle monitors, and other similar equipment.
• Check items such as their websites, personal and business stationery and printed checks, advertising materials, contact information, and personal or pet ID tags to ensure the area code is included.

What will remain the same?

• Customers’ telephone number, 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 your community.

If you have any questions regarding information provided in this notice, please contact MHTC at 608-437-5551 or

608-930-9985.