Switched long distance calls connect to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) through the prescribed inter-exchange carrier (PIC) selected to the out-going phone line. These calls do not require any additional equipment, and are charged per-minute of use.
Types of Calls
- Local Call – Local calls are telephone calls that generally require dialling a seven-digit local telephone number. Local telephone service providers have plans that cover these calls.
- Intra-LATA or Regional Toll Call – These are telephone calls made to a destination outside the local calling area, but are within the same LATA (Local Access and Transport Area). These calls require the user to dial “1” and the area code before dialling the telephone number. Typically, the local telephone service provider gives bills for regional toll calls; however, it is possible to choose another carrier for this service. Customers will then have an “Intra-LATA presubscription.” When this happens, they will be billed separately for these services, and could also be charged a fee for switching to another regional toll provider. To find out your regional toll provider, you can dial 1-(area code)-700-4141.
- Intrastate Call – Calls made between different LATAs but are inside the same state are called intrastate calls. Only long distance phone companies can provide this service. Users are required to dial “1” along with an area code before dialling the phone number. To find out who your region’s current Intrastate Long Distance Provider is, dial 1-700-555-4141.
- Interstate Call – Calls placed to another state are called interstate long distance calls. Like the intrastate call, users are required to dial “1” along with an area code before dialling the phone number. To find your current Interstate Long Distance Provider, dial 1-700-555-4141.
- International – Toll calls to any destination outside of the United States of America are called international calls. These calls are typically the most expensive service offered by long distance service providers. To find your current International Long Distance Provider, dial 1-700-555-4141.
