Everything You Need to Know About 812
So you got a call from a 812 number and you're wondering where it came from? That's Indiana. More specifically, 812 covers Evansville and places like Bloomington.
This area code has been around for 78 years now - it was created in 1947. That makes it one of the original area codes from when the phone system was first being organized.
Quick Tip
People in the 812 area are on Eastern Time (ET). If you're in a different time zone, double-check before calling so you don't reach them at an awkward hour.
Here's Something Worth Knowing
Just because you see 812 on your caller ID doesn't guarantee the person is actually sitting in Indiana right now. Since 2003, people can take their phone numbers with them when they move. Your old college roommate who grew up near Evansville? They might be living in Texas now but still using their 812 number.
That said, a 812 number usually means the person originally got their phone number somewhere in Indiana. Or they specifically chose a 812 number for business reasons - maybe to seem local to customers in the Evansville area.
How to Dial a 812 Number
If you're calling from somewhere else in the country, just dial 1 + 812 + the 7-digit number. Calling from overseas? Use your country's exit code (usually 00 or +), then 1 for the US, then 812 and the rest.
Should You Be Worried About Scams?
Here's the honest truth: scammers can fake any area code they want, including 812. It's called "spoofing" and it's frustratingly common. So if you get a call from 812that feels off - someone asking for your Social Security number, claiming you won a prize, or demanding immediate payment for something - trust your gut and hang up.
Real businesses and government agencies don't cold call asking for sensitive info. If you're unsure whether a call was legit, look up the company's official number yourself and call them back.
Cities and Towns Using 812
The 812 area code serves quite a few places across Indiana. Here's where you might find someone with this area code: