IT for Donuts: call 0800, 0808 and 0500 numbers free from your mobile

IT for Donuts: call 0800, 0808 and 0500 numbers free from your mobile

IT for Donuts is our regular weekly feature where we explain a tech term or answer a question about business IT.

This week, have you ever been stung by calling a ‘freephone’ number from your mobile phone? Although free to call from landlines, mobile phone companies often charge to call 0800, 0808 and 0500 numbers.

But there is a way round these charges. Read on and we’ll explain…

From your inclusive allowance

Ok, here’s the disclaimer. When you use this method to call freephone numbers, it’s not quite accurate to say that they’re free.

Actually, calls placed via this method will come out of the call allowance included with your mobile phone contract. So although most pay-monthly mobile phone users can benefit from following these instructions, proceed with caution if you’re on a pay-as-you-go deal.

All clear? Ok, here we go.

Use 0800Buster

To call an 0800, 0808 or 0500 number from your mobile without getting hit with a nasty surprise on your next bill, visit the 0800 Buster website.

On the left side of the screen, you’ll see some instructions about how to place a call. You’ll be given a number to dial which starts with 03.

Calls to 03 numbers cost the same as calling an 01 or 02 number, and must come out of any inclusive calls allowance.

When you call the number, you’ll hear a short message. Tap in the number you want to call, followed by the hash (#) key. After a moment, you should hear another ringing tone, before your call is answered.

That’s all there is to it!

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