Introduction to 020 Numbers
In the United Kingdom, phone numbers are categorized into different groups based on their prefixes. One such group is the 020 numbers, which are used for London and its surrounding areas. These numbers were introduced in 2000 as part of a major overhaul of the UK’s telephone numbering system. If you’re wondering whether you get charged for calling 020 numbers, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you understand the costs associated with these numbers.
How 020 Numbers Work
020 numbers are geographic numbers, meaning they are tied to a specific location. They are used for both landline and mobile phones in the London area. The 020 prefix is followed by a unique 8-digit number, which identifies the specific phone line. For example, a typical 020 number would look like this: 020 7123 4567.
History of 020 Numbers
Before 2000, London used the 0171 and 0181 prefixes. However, due to the increasing demand for phone numbers, a new system was introduced, which phased out the old prefixes and replaced them with the 020 prefix. This change allowed for more phone numbers to be allocated to the London area, meeting the growing demand for telecommunications services.
Calling 020 Numbers: What Are the Charges?
The cost of calling 020 numbers depends on several factors, including your phone service provider, the time of day, and whether you’re calling from a landline or mobile phone.
Landline Calls
If you’re calling an 020 number from a landline, the cost will depend on your phone service provider’s tariff. Most landline providers offer inclusive minutes for calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers. If you’ve used up your inclusive minutes, you’ll be charged a per-minute rate, which varies depending on your provider.
Typical Landline Call Charges
| Provider | Daytime Rate (per minute) | Evening Rate (per minute) | Weekend Rate (per minute) |
| — | — | — | — |
| BT | 12p | 5p | 5p |
| Virgin Media | 12p | 5p | 5p |
| Sky | 12p | 5p | 5p |
Mobile Calls
If you’re calling an 020 number from a mobile phone, the cost will depend on your mobile service provider’s tariff. Most mobile providers offer inclusive minutes for calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers. If you’ve used up your inclusive minutes, you’ll be charged a per-minute rate, which varies depending on your provider.
Typical Mobile Call Charges
| Provider | Daytime Rate (per minute) | Evening Rate (per minute) | Weekend Rate (per minute) |
| — | — | — | — |
| EE | 30p | 30p | 30p |
| O2 | 30p | 30p | 30p |
| Vodafone | 30p | 30p | 30p |
Free Calls to 020 Numbers
Some phone service providers offer free calls to 020 numbers as part of their tariff. These providers include:
- BT: Offers free calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers, at weekends.
- Virgin Media: Offers free calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers, at weekends.
- Plusnet: Offers free calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers, at weekends.
Calling 020 Numbers from Abroad
If you’re calling an 020 number from abroad, the cost will depend on your phone service provider’s international tariff. International call rates vary depending on the country you’re calling from and the provider you’re using.
Typical International Call Charges
| Provider | International Rate (per minute) |
| — | — |
| BT | 50p-£1.50 |
| Virgin Media | 50p-£1.50 |
| Sky | 50p-£1.50 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of calling 020 numbers depends on several factors, including your phone service provider, the time of day, and whether you’re calling from a landline or mobile phone. While some providers offer inclusive minutes for calls to UK landlines, including 020 numbers, others may charge a per-minute rate. It’s essential to check with your provider to understand their tariff and any charges associated with calling 020 numbers.
By understanding the costs associated with calling 020 numbers, you can make informed decisions about your phone usage and avoid unexpected charges on your bill.
What are 020 numbers and how do they work?
020 numbers are a type of geographic dialling code used in the United Kingdom, specifically in the London area. They were introduced in 2000 as part of a major overhaul of the UK’s telephone numbering system. The 020 code replaced the previous 0171 and 0181 codes, which were used for inner and outer London respectively. When you call an 020 number, you are essentially calling a landline or mobile phone in the London area.
The 020 code is usually followed by a series of eight digits, which are unique to the specific phone number being called. For example, a typical 020 number might look like this: 020 7123 4567. When you dial an 020 number, your call is routed through the UK’s public switched telephone network (PSTN) to the recipient’s phone. The call is then connected, and you can communicate with the person or organisation you are trying to reach.
Are 020 numbers free to call?
No, 020 numbers are not free to call. They are considered geographic numbers, which means that they are charged at a standard rate by your phone service provider. The cost of calling an 020 number will depend on your specific phone tariff and the time of day you make the call. If you have a contract with a set number of minutes, calling an 020 number will use up some of those minutes. If you are on a pay-as-you-go tariff, you will be charged a per-minute rate for the call.
It’s worth noting that some phone service providers offer special deals or packages that include free calls to 020 numbers. For example, you might have a tariff that includes free calls to UK landlines, which would cover 020 numbers. However, these deals can vary widely, so it’s always a good idea to check with your provider to see what rates apply to your specific situation.
How much does it cost to call an 020 number from a mobile phone?
The cost of calling an 020 number from a mobile phone will depend on your specific phone tariff and the time of day you make the call. If you have a contract with a set number of minutes, calling an 020 number will use up some of those minutes. If you are on a pay-as-you-go tariff, you will be charged a per-minute rate for the call. The cost of calling an 020 number from a mobile phone is typically the same as calling any other UK landline number.
On average, the cost of calling an 020 number from a mobile phone can range from 3p to 65p per minute, depending on the time of day and your phone service provider. It’s always a good idea to check with your provider to see what rates apply to your specific situation. Some providers may also offer special deals or packages that include free calls to 020 numbers, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal for your needs.
Can I call an 020 number from outside the UK?
Yes, you can call an 020 number from outside the UK. To do so, you will need to dial the international access code for the country you are in, followed by the UK country code (44), and then the 020 number. For example, if you are calling from the United States, you would dial 011 44 20 7123 4567.
Keep in mind that calling an 020 number from outside the UK can be expensive, as you will be charged international rates by your phone service provider. The cost of the call will depend on your specific phone tariff and the time of day you make the call. It’s always a good idea to check with your provider to see what rates apply to your specific situation, and to consider alternative options such as Skype or other VoIP services.
Are 020 numbers subject to any special regulations?
Yes, 020 numbers are subject to certain regulations in the UK. For example, the UK’s Communications Act 2003 requires that all phone service providers offer a certain level of service quality and reliability for calls to 020 numbers. Additionally, the UK’s Phone-paid Services Authority regulates the use of premium rate numbers, which can include some 020 numbers.
It’s also worth noting that some 020 numbers may be subject to special rules or restrictions, such as those related to consumer protection or data privacy. For example, some organisations may be required to provide clear information about their phone number and the cost of calling it. If you have concerns about a specific 020 number, you can contact the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, for more information.
Can I get a refund if I am overcharged for calling an 020 number?
Yes, you may be able to get a refund if you are overcharged for calling an 020 number. If you believe you have been overcharged, you should contact your phone service provider to dispute the charge. They will investigate the matter and may offer a refund or credit if they find that you were indeed overcharged.
It’s also worth noting that you can contact the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, if you have a complaint about your phone service provider or the cost of calling an 020 number. Ofcom can provide guidance and support to help resolve the issue, and may also be able to offer a refund or other compensation if you have been overcharged.
How can I avoid being charged for calling an 020 number?
There are several ways to avoid being charged for calling an 020 number. One option is to use a phone service provider that offers free calls to 020 numbers as part of your tariff. Another option is to use a VoIP service such as Skype, which can allow you to make free or low-cost calls to 020 numbers over the internet.
Additionally, some organisations may offer alternative contact numbers, such as freephone or 0800 numbers, which are free to call from UK landlines and mobile phones. You can also try contacting the organisation via email or online chat instead of by phone. If you do need to call an 020 number, be sure to check with your phone service provider to see what rates apply to your specific situation, and consider using a phone card or other prepaid service to help manage your costs.