BT calls free on 0845 numbers

British Telecom becomes the first landline company that now allows free call on 0845 numbers. Previously, the calls weren’t free on premium rate numbers such as 0844 or 0845 numbers. After number of customer complaints, BT, being the largest landline provider company took an initiative to no longer charge customers on 0845 numbers. 

The announcement came on January 16, 2009 when BT decided to abolish free calls at 0845 and 0800 numbers. This is good news for more than 14 million users of BT connection as they get a benefit of making free calls to what are normally premium rate lines. Previously, the BT users were charged up to 1.96p a minute for 0845 numbers, with a 7p set up charge on top. Though the charges were relatively low compared to other connections, where subscribers have been reported to charge up to 10 pence per minute. However, the BT subscribers will be charged on regular other premium rate numbers such as 0844, 0870, etc. This offer is not valid for BT mobile customers.

0844 numbers are generally used by banks, utility firms and other organizations. These firms also receive rebate up to 40% of the call fee on answering the incoming calls. BT said it would take a financial hit, absorbing the extra fees with no increase in monthly charges to customers.

The move was taken after the customer complaints against medical centers and NHS departments using 0844 and 0845 numbers, as customers think they should not be charged more to call for medical help.