In 2022, the Public Service Commission approved an area code overlay for the current 864 area code, which includes Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson.  A new area code overlay of 821 will be applied beginning in 2024.  This new 821 area code will cover the same geographic area as the current 864 area code and will only affect the issuance of new telephone numbers; all existing customers will retain the 864 area code and will not need to change their telephone numbers as a result of this overlay.  Ten-digit dialing will be required by all customers within the area covered by the current 864 and new 821 area codes.  Customers will still be able to dial just three digits to reach 911 and other services, such as 211 and 811, as well as 311 and 511, where available.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will the phone number I have now change?

No.  If you currently have a phone number with an 864 area code, it will not change.  The new 821 area code will only apply to new numbers that are issued after the new area code takes effect.

When will the new area code take effect?

There will be a rollout in 2024.  In January, you can start dialing with the full ten digits (1 plus the area code, followed by the seven-digit number) to begin training yourself.  Later in 2024, this ten-digit dialing practice will become mandatory, shortly before numbers with the new area code begin being issued.  More details will come in January from the Public Service Commission. 

How can I learn more?

The Public Service Commission maintains a docket of all documents and materials related to this issue filed with the PSC on their website at this link.  You can contact the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff by emailing Kari Munn at kmunn@ors.sc.gov.