Calling charges

Telephone numbers starting with 08, 09 and 118 are called ‘service numbers’. You might use them to call organisations like utility companies, banks or government agencies.

Since 1 July 2015, there has been an initiative in place, introduced by Ofcom, the communications regulator, which affects the way numbers starting with 08, 09 and 118, are charged.

0800 and 0808

Calling numbers starting with 0800 and 0808 continue to be free from your Hyperoptic phone.

084, 087, 09 and 118 numbers

Numbers starting with 084 and 087 are general service numbers to call organisations. 09 and 0871 are ‘premium rate’ numbers and those starting with 118 are directory enquires – these are charged at a higher rate than normal calls. Since 1 July 2015, the cost of calling these numbers is made up of two parts:

An access charge: This is the part that Hyperoptic will charge you, per minute for connecting the call. The access charge from Hyperoptic is 10p per minute.

A service charge: This is the rest of the call charge. The organisation you are calling (the service provider) decides on what this service charge will be and must inform you. For example, the organisation might say “Calls cost 20p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.”

When you add up our access charge and the service charge, you’ll know exactly what the call charges are.

Want to know more?

For more information about these changes go to https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-telecoms-and-internet/advice-for-consumers/advice/uk-calling

Phonepaid Services Authority (“PSA”) regulates premium-rate services. It publishes a code of practice that providers of premium-rate services must follow. This includes rules on advertising and promoting premium-rate services. PSA (https://psauthority.org.uk/) may be able to help you if you’ve a complaint about a premium-rate service (see ‘Complaints about premium-rate services’ below).

Some information and entertainment services, including services for adults, are provided by international companies. Phone numbers for these services may be advertised in the UK.

To check out our price book, please visit our Price Guide Book.