Everything You Need to Know About 828
So you got a call from a 828 number and you're wondering where it came from? That's North Carolina. More specifically, 828 covers Asheville.
This area code has been around for 27 years now - it was created in 1998. It was added when the region needed more phone numbers as the population grew.
Quick Tip
People in the 828 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 828 on your caller ID doesn't guarantee the person is actually sitting in North Carolina right now. Since 2003, people can take their phone numbers with them when they move. Your old college roommate who grew up near Asheville? They might be living in Texas now but still using their 828 number.
That said, a 828 number usually means the person originally got their phone number somewhere in North Carolina. Or they specifically chose a 828 number for business reasons - maybe to seem local to customers in the Asheville area.
How to Dial a 828 Number
If you're calling from somewhere else in the country, just dial 1 + 828 + the 7-digit number. Calling from overseas? Use your country's exit code (usually 00 or +), then 1 for the US, then 828 and the rest.
Should You Be Worried About Scams?
Here's the honest truth: scammers can fake any area code they want, including 828. It's called "spoofing" and it's frustratingly common. So if you get a call from 828that 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 828
The 828 area code serves quite a few places across North Carolina. Here's where you might find someone with this area code: