[comp.dcom.telecom] Why Different Access Codes?

uri@uunet.uu.net (08/07/89)

Hello,
Could somebody explain: what can one win, using diferent access codes? Like
having AT&T as default LD carrier, but routing some of calls through MCI or
Sprint? Don't you get billed from BOTH default LD carrier AND the one you
actually sent your call through? What are the rules of this game?

Thank you,
Uri.

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<Disclaimer>

[Moderator's Note: The use of different access codes merely allows one to
select the desired long distance carrier. At the time of divestiture and
equal access, in order to avoid forcing millions of phone users to begin
dialing an extra five digits on their long distance calls in order that a few
people could route their calls 'with equal ease in dialing' to the carrier of
choice -- if people did not use AT&T they had to dial upwards of 23 digits
to use alternate carriers -- provision was made that you could 'default' your
calls to the carrier of choice, continuing to dial 10/11 digits. You are only
billed by the carrier which handles the call; not by your default carrier as
well, unless of course you have a flat rate package from your default carrier,
i.e. Reach Out America, which you pay for whether you use it or not.  PT]