What do I need to know before calling the USA from the Philippines?
What is the correct exit code to call the USA from the Philippines?
The correct exit code to dial when calling the USA from the Philippines is 00. This code tells the Philippine telephone network that you are about to dial an international number.
When making an international call from the Philippines, you must first dial the exit code, also known as the international access code or international direct dialing (IDD) code. This code allows you to leave the Philippine telephone network and connect to international lines. Following the exit code, you'll enter the country code for the USA, which is 1. Then, you’ll input the area code and the recipient's phone number. Therefore, the complete dialing sequence would be: 00 + 1 (USA country code) + area code + local phone number. For example, to call a number in New York City (area code 212), you would dial 00 1 212 followed by the seven-digit phone number. Remember to double-check the area code for the specific location you're calling to ensure you reach the intended recipient.How much does it cost to call the US from the Philippines using a mobile phone?
The cost of calling the US from the Philippines using a mobile phone can vary significantly, ranging from practically free to quite expensive, depending on the method you choose. Direct calls placed through your Philippine mobile carrier can be the most expensive option, potentially costing anywhere from PHP 20 to PHP 50 or more per minute. However, using VoIP services like Viber, WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice, especially when connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, can drastically reduce or even eliminate the cost.
The main factor influencing cost is whether you're relying on your mobile carrier's international direct dialing (IDD) rates or utilizing internet-based calling solutions. IDD rates are set by your carrier (Smart, Globe, DITO), and they are generally higher due to infrastructure and international agreements. These rates can also fluctuate based on promotional periods or specific call packages offered by your carrier. To find the exact IDD rate, it's best to check your carrier's website or contact their customer service directly.
On the other hand, VoIP services leverage your internet connection to make calls. If you're connected to Wi-Fi, the call itself is essentially free (excluding any cost you pay for your internet service). Even when using mobile data, the data consumed by these calls is typically minimal, and often cheaper than IDD rates. Just ensure both you and the person you are calling have the same app installed. Another option is purchasing international calling cards specifically designed for making calls to the US. These cards offer pre-paid minutes at competitive rates, although the quality might not always be as consistent as VoIP calls over a strong Wi-Fi connection.
What are the best apps for making cheap calls to the USA from the Philippines?
Several apps offer affordable and reliable ways to call the USA from the Philippines. The best options generally include WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, and Google Voice, as they leverage Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to bypass traditional phone charges. The cost-effectiveness of each app largely depends on whether you're calling another user of the same app (app-to-app calling, which is usually free) or calling a US landline or mobile number (which incurs a per-minute charge or requires purchasing credit).
Calling the USA through these apps involves connecting to the internet via Wi-Fi or mobile data. App-to-app calls are generally free and only require both parties to have the app installed and an active internet connection. However, if you need to call a US phone number, you'll typically need to purchase credits or subscribe to a calling plan within the app. The rates are significantly lower compared to traditional international calling rates from Philippine telecom companies. Keep in mind that call quality relies heavily on the strength and stability of your internet connection. To determine the absolute cheapest option for calling a US landline or mobile, it's best to compare the per-minute rates or subscription plans offered by each app at the time you intend to make the call. Rates can fluctuate, and promotional offers are common. Also, consider factors like ease of use, call quality, and the availability of features like call recording when selecting the best app for your needs. While all listed apps provide similar core services, individual user experience may vary.Are there any time zone differences to consider when calling the US from the Philippines?
Yes, absolutely. When calling the US from the Philippines, significant time zone differences must be considered. The Philippines operates on Philippine Standard Time (PST), which is UTC+8. The continental US spans multiple time zones from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Pacific Standard Time (PST), meaning there can be a 12-15 hour difference depending on the specific location in the US and whether Daylight Saving Time (DST) is in effect.
This vast difference means that what might be a convenient afternoon in the Philippines could be the middle of the night in parts of the US, or very early morning. Therefore, before making a call, it's crucial to determine the recipient's time zone in the US and factor in DST, which is observed from March to November in most US states. Planning ahead based on these differences will greatly increase the likelihood of reaching someone during their waking hours.
To illustrate the potential impact, consider this: If it's 8:00 PM in the Philippines, it could be 8:00 AM in New York (EST), or 5:00 AM in Los Angeles (PST). Always double-check the current time in the specific US location you are calling to avoid calling at inappropriate hours. Utilizing online time zone converters is a helpful way to determine the accurate time difference before placing your call.
How do I dial a US toll-free number from the Philippines?
To dial a US toll-free number (numbers starting with 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833) from the Philippines, you generally need to use an international access code, the US country code, and then the toll-free number itself. However, it's important to note that many US toll-free numbers are *not* accessible from outside the United States.
Here’s the general format to try: 00 + 1 + (toll-free number). The "00" is the Philippines' international access code (also sometimes replaced with "+"), the "1" is the United States' country code, and then you enter the 800, 888, etc. number. So, if the US toll-free number is 800-123-4567, you would dial 0018001234567 (or +18001234567). Be aware that some Philippine telephone providers may have specific prefixes or require registration to make international calls. Check with your provider (e.g., PLDT, Globe) for their specific instructions and potential charges.
Even when dialing correctly, many US toll-free numbers are programmed to block calls originating from outside the US. The company owning the number may only want to handle calls within the United States. In these cases, you'll often hear a message stating the call cannot be completed from your location. If calling a specific business or organization, search their website for a direct dial number that *isn't* a toll-free number. These numbers are much more likely to connect successfully from the Philippines, although they will typically incur international call charges.
What are the alternative ways to call the US from the Philippines besides direct dialing?
Beyond direct dialing, numerous alternative methods exist for calling the US from the Philippines, leveraging Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, mobile apps, prepaid calling cards, and telecommunication service providers offering international call packages. These options often present more cost-effective solutions and added features compared to traditional direct dialing.
Calling the US via the internet, using VoIP services, is a popular and often cheaper alternative. Services like Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, and Google Voice use internet connectivity to transmit calls, bypassing traditional telephone networks. Users on both ends of the call typically need to have the app installed. The cost is often a small per-minute fee or a subscription fee, significantly less than international direct dial rates. Furthermore, features like video calling and instant messaging are typically integrated into these platforms. Another viable option involves utilizing international calling cards or availing of promotional international call rates offered by Philippine telecommunication companies. International calling cards can be purchased in physical or digital formats and provide a pre-determined amount of call time to specific countries. Telcos like Globe and Smart regularly offer discounted rates or bundled packages for international calls, frequently available through prepaid load promotions or monthly postpaid plans. These options can provide fixed rates and help control call costs. Finally, various mobile apps designed specifically for international calling provide competitive rates and features. Apps such as Rebtel or Vonage offer different calling plans and often provide local phone numbers that enable US-based contacts to call you at local rates. Exploring these app-based services and comparing their rates, features, and reliability can help determine the most suitable and cost-effective method for consistently calling the US from the Philippines.Do I need to include an area code when calling a US number from the Philippines?
Yes, you absolutely need to include the area code when calling a US number from the Philippines. The area code is an integral part of the US phone number, and the international dialing system requires it to correctly route your call to the intended recipient.
When dialing internationally, the phone system needs specific instructions to connect you to the right country and then to the correct region within that country. Omitting the area code is like only giving part of an address; the call simply won't reach its destination. The area code identifies a specific geographic area within the United States, allowing the phone network to direct your call appropriately. Therefore, the correct format for calling a US number from the Philippines is: 001 + area code + local number. For example, to call a number with the area code 212 and the local number 555-1212, you would dial 001-212-555-1212. Remember to dial "001" first; this is the exit code for the Philippines, followed by "1," which is the country code for the United States. Double-check that you have the correct area code before placing the call to avoid any connection issues.Alright, you're all set! Calling the USA from the Philippines might seem a little daunting at first, but with these simple steps, you'll be chatting with your friends and family in no time. Thanks for reading, and we hope this helped clear things up. Come back again soon for more helpful tips and tricks!