Area codes help divide geographic regions for phone calls, making sure your call gets to the right place. So, where is 934 area code located?
This article will show you exactly where you can find the 934 area code and what you need to know about it.
You might also hear about “area code overlays.” These happen when demand for phone numbers gets too high. So, new area codes get introduced into the same geographic region as older ones.
The 934 Area Code: An Overlay
The 934 area code isn’t replacing the 631 area code. Instead, it’s what’s known as an area code overlay.
What is an area code overlay?
When a geographic region runs out of phone numbers with its original area code, regulators can add a new area code to the same region. This is called an area code overlay.
Overlays add new phone numbers without requiring existing customers to change their numbers.
The 934/631 connection
The 934 area code is an overlay for the 631 area code in New York. Both 631 and 934 cover the same geographic area: Suffolk County, Long Island, New York.
If you already have a 631 number, you don’t need to change anything. But new phone lines in Suffolk County may be assigned the 934 area code.
Understanding the transition to 10-digit dialing
When the 934 area code was introduced, it meant that everyone in the 631/934 area had to dial all 10 digits of a phone number, even for local calls.
The change went into effect on June 18, 2016.
The reason for the switch was that the new area code was an “overlay,” meaning it covered the same geographic area as the original code. To make sure calls were routed correctly, the area code had to be included for every call.
Here’s what you need to know about dialing in the 631/934 area:
- You now have to dial the area code for all calls, even local ones.
- The way you dial long-distance calls hasn’t changed.
- You can still dial 911 and other abbreviated codes like 211 and 311 without the area code.
Important Considerations and Actions
If you’re in the 934 area code, or if you’re planning to move or expand your business to the area, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Reprogramming Equipment
If you have devices that automatically dial numbers, you’ll need to reprogram them to dial 10 digits instead of seven. This includes life safety systems, medical monitoring devices, private branch exchange (PBX) phone systems, fax machines, alarm systems, and more.
Updating Contact Information
It’s also a good idea to update your contact information to reflect the new area code. So, update your business stationery, advertising materials, website, checks, personal or business IDs, and any other place where you list your contact information.
Ensuring Business Continuity
After you’ve made the changes, test your dialing procedures to make sure everything’s working correctly. If systems aren’t updated correctly, there could be disruptions in service, so it’s best to be prepared.
Key Takeaways
The 934 area code is an overlay to the 631 area code, both of which serve Suffolk County on Long Island. If you live in this area, you’re probably already familiar with 10-digit dialing.
Remember that using the full 10-digit phone number is essential for making any kind of call, whether it’s to a neighbor across the street or a relative across the country.
If you have any questions about area codes or dialing procedures, you can contact your service provider’s helpdesk or visit the Department of Public Service Commission website.