0345 numbers
Standard landline rate numbers
| Number type: | 0345 number |
| Usage: | Non-geographic numbering |
| Call costs: | Normal landline rate |
| Introduced: | March 2007 |
| Similar numbers: | All other 03 numbers |
What are 0345 numbers?
An 0345 number is a special type of landline-rate phone number used by businesses, government bodies, the public sector and various other organisations.
Unlike traditional landline phone numbers, 0345 numbers are not linked with specific geographic locations. However, the cost to call an 0345 number within the UK is always the same as calling a normal home or business landline.
0345 number call costs
A call to an 0345 number costs the same as a call to a normal home or business landline.
All numbers that start with 03 are charged at the same rate as standard landline numbers that start with '01' or '02'. If your phone tariff offers inclusive calls to landlines, calls to 0345 numbers will also be included on the same basis.
| Call type | Call cost |
|---|---|
| 0345 number from a landline | Included in any applicable call packages, otherwise standard landline rates. |
| 0345 number from a mobile | Included in talktime and bundled minutes, otherwise standard landline rates. |
Telecoms regulator Ofcom specifically prohibits phone companies from charging more to call an 03 number than a standard landline, as detailed in their call costs guide.
Are 0345 numbers free to call?
0345 numbers are not the same as freephone 0800 and 0808 numbers, but they can be called at no extra charge on many phone tariffs.
If your phone tariff offers free calls to landlines at certain times of day, or has inclusive calls or bundled minutes that cover calls to landline numbers, calls to 0345 numbers (and all other 03 numbers) will be included in these deals on the exact same basis.
All '03 numbers' work in the same way and are charged at the same rate. This includes 03450 numbers, 03454 numbers, 03454 numbers, 03456 numbers, 03457 numbers, 03459 numbers and all other numbers that start with the digits 0345, regardless of how the number is displayed or what the following digits are.
