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US area code · Alabama

Area code 256

Where the 256 area code is, its overlay and how to dial a +1 256 number from anywhere.

CoversAnniston, AlabamaTime zoneCentral (CT)TypeOverlay
Quick answer

The 256 area code is in Anniston, Alabama, United States (Central (CT)). To call from abroad: +1 256 555-0123. It is an overlay, so all 10 digits are dialled.

StateAlabama
Main areaAnniston
Time zoneCentral (CT)
TypeOverlay
10-digit dialingRequired
In service since10-Oct-1997

The 256 area code is a geographic North American Numbering Plan (NANP) code covering Anniston, Alabama. It has been in service since 10-Oct-1997 and sits in the Central (CT) time zone.

Overlay 256 shares its region

Several area codes cover the same geographic area, so two neighbours can have different codes. Because of the overlay, you must dial all 10 digits (area code + number) even for local calls.

256205938

How to dial a 256 number

From abroad+1 256 555-0123
Within the US / Canada1 256 555-0123
Locally (same area)256 555-0123

Cities in the 256 area code

A 256 number is usually in one of these places in Alabama — 6 counties.

Anniston CalhounDecatur MorganFlorence LauderdaleGadsden EtowahHuntsville MadisonMadison Limestone;Madison

Other Alabama area codes

205251334483659938

Frequently asked questions

Where is the 256 area code?

The 256 area code is in Anniston, Alabama, United States (Central (CT)).

Is 256 an overlay area code?

Yes. 256 overlays the same region as 205, 938, so callers dial all 10 digits.

Do I have to dial 10 digits for 256?

Yes — dial the area code plus the seven-digit number.

How do I call a 256 number from another country?

Dial your exit code (or +), then 1, then 256, then the number: +1 256 555-0123.

Source: NANPA numbering plan. An area code covers a region, not a precise address — a 256 number does not pinpoint a street or ZIP code.

Missed a call from +1 256?

In the 30 days to September 24, 2026, 828 unwanted calls showing a 256 number were reported to the US Federal Trade Commission, 61% of them recorded messages or robocalls. That puts 256 at #70 of 670 area codes reported.

Other419
Calls pretending to be government, businesses, or family and friends142
Medical & prescriptions84
Reducing your debt (credit cards, mortgage, student loans)55
Before you call back
  • If you do not know anyone in Alabama, do not call back: a genuine caller will leave a message or send a text.
  • Scammers fake the number shown on caller ID, so a 256 number can hide a caller anywhere in the world.
  • Never give a code received by text or a bank detail to an unknown caller. In the US, calls can be reported at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Who issues +1 256 numbers

Phone companies hold blocks of numbers in each area code. The main holders in 256:

Bellsouth Telecomm Inc Dba South Central Bell Tel 180New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC 114Cellco Partnership Dba Verizon Wireless 84Paetec Itel, LLC 58Powertel Birmingham Licenses, Inc. 49Level 3 Communications, LLC 42

About 24.9% of the 800 prefixes in use belong to mobile carriers: a 256 number is often a cell phone, and it may have moved to another carrier since.

Sources: FTC Do Not Call reported calls (numbers as reported by consumers, not verified), NANPA central office code assignments.

All US area codes United States +1 Map of area code 256 — cities & rate centres