FirstLocal Phone Service - Common Questions and Answers

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FirstLocal.net Internet Dial-Up Service - Common Questions and Answers

Long Distance - Common Questions and Answers

Q: Will a change in long distance carriers affect the way we use our telephone today (i.e. will we have to dial access codes and other inconvenient numbers?)
A: No, you can continue to use your phone in the same way you do today. You will not have to dial any special access codes or do anything differently than you do today.

Q: Are there any charges to convert?
A: No.  There is no charge to switch to our service.  You may be charged a one-time fee of $10 by your local phone company for switching, and First Communications will credit your account to reimburse you for your local phone company's charges for switching.  Just call our FirstPerson customer care center when the charges appear on your local phone bill and we'll be happy to credit your account.

Q: How will I know when my long distance service has been switched?
A: Your new service order will be processed within 3-5 business days.  You can verify that your long distance service has been switched by dialing the following numbers from the phone line you wish to switch.
To check your Long Distance (Inter/Intra-state):   1-700-555-4141        
To check your Local Long Distance (Intralata):    1+your area  code+700-4141
You will hear a recording say "Thank you for selecting First Communications."  If the recording does not say "First Communications" or if the test number does not complete, please call or email Customer Care for assistance.

Q: I may have an Anti-Slamming Feature (PIC Freeze) on my account at the local phone company.  Should I notify the local phone company that I have changed carriers?
A: We will notify the local phone company that you have ordered long distance service with First Communications.  If the service order is rejected because of an Anti-Slamming feature and your line, a representative will contact you via telephone or in writing.  We will give you instructions to assist you with your carrier change. 

Q: What if I am not happy with the service? Can I change back to my previous carrier?
A: Yes, you can change back to your previous carrier without any penalties or hassles.

Q: How will my Toll-Free Service be processed? 
A: New toll-free service is processed within 3-5 business days.  A representative will contact you via telephone or mail to advise you that your service is operational and to advise you of your new toll-free number.  

Existing toll-free service is processed within 7-10 business days.  An order processing representative will contact you via telephone to advise you that your toll-free service is operational.  If you experience a service interruption during this time, contact Customer Care for immediate assistance. 

Q: What do I have to do in order to sign up and receive service?
A: Our sign up process is simple. You can sign up for long distance and toll free services with our Online Quote & Signup, or call First Communications at 1.888.FIRSTCO.  First Communications representatives will handle all the paperwork and make sure the process is smooth and seamless.

Q: Should I notify my former long distance carrier that I have switched long distance carriers?
A: After verifying that your service has been switched, it is recommended that you notify your former long distance carrier to cancel their account.  This will stop any monthly fees you may have been charged on their account. 

Q: What should I do if I change locations or move to another state?
A: If you are changing locations, please contact Customer Care  as soon as you have your new mailing address and telephone information.  We will coordinate the service change and disconnect date to ensure that you do not experience a service interruption. 

Q: How do I add new telephone numbers or products to my account?
A: Additional telephone numbers or other products such as calling cards or toll-free numbers are added free of charge.  Customer Care will assist you with adding new telephone numbers or other services when you call 1.800.274.1015.

Q: What should I do if I have other telephone equipment such as programmable phones, dialers, dedicated services or a PBX or Centrex system? 
A: If you have other telecommunications equipment, it is recommended that you contact your equipment vendor to review your account.  It may be necessary to reprogram the equipment to direct the long distance traffic to your new carrier. 

Q: Can I pay my bill by credit card or automatic withdrawal? 
A: Yes you can! To pay your bill using a credit card or to make automatic withdrawal arrangements, call 1.800.274.1015.

Q: Can I order a 1-800 number and what is the charge per minute?
A: Yes, simply call your First Communications Representative and he/she will help you decide the best coverage options. The rate is the same for both 800 service and your regular 1+ long distance calls.

We hope this information has been helpful to you.  If you have additional questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Customer Care at:  1-800-274-1015 or businesscare@firstcomm.com or homecare@firstcomm.com