If you have a consumer- or business-related question in the United States, the odds are there is a government agency with a toll free number whose function it is to provide an answer.
I’ve compiled the toll free number hotlines of 10 such agencies that can help you get your questions answered and otherwise provide valuable public services that can benefit both your business and personal life.
Enjoy!
1. FTC “Do Not Call Registryâ€Â - 888-382-1222
This is a toll free number you may want to call right now. If you’re tired of being harassed by aggressive telemarketers and dinnertime survey-takers, put a stop to it by having your home or cell number placed on the FTC’s “Do Not Call Registryâ€. Note that it can take up to 31 days to get off telemarketer lists. You can also add your number online.
2. Small Business Administration Answer Desk - 800-827-5722 (U-ASK-SBA)
When operating a small business, it’s good to know you’ve got somebody on your side that can give you honest, informative answers. If you’re getting started on your own, this is one toll free number you might want to have on speed dial. Also be sure to check out their online courses.
3. Patent and Trademark Office Hotline - 800-786-9199
Got a great idea and want to lock it up before somebody else gets it on paper? Dial this 800 number to get the credit you deserve. You don’t want to end up like Elisha Gray. Who, you say? Exactly.
4. FTC Identity Theft Hotline - 877-438-4338  (ID-THEFT)
Identity theft seems to get worse and worse every year. If you have questions about how to protect yourself or are worried there’s an imposter on the loose, give this toll free number a ring and have a chat with these guys.
5. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)Â -Â 866-487-2365Â (4-USA-DOL)
If you’re running a business, taking care of your employees should be at the top of your list. If you have any questions regarding worker safety, call this toll free number. A little education can help you prevent accidents and reduce your risk of liability.
6. Federal Student Aid Information Center - 800-621-3115
Need money to fund your future? Already up to your eyeballs in student loans? Sending your kids to college? I say get in good with these guys now. You’re going to know them for a very. long. time.
7. National Park Service Reservation Hotline - 800-365-2267  (365-CAMP)
Now more than ever, our national parks need our patronage. Get away from the office and say yes to fresh air and grizzly bears by calling this toll free number number to book your next camping trip. Check out this map to find a park near you.
8. Report Suspected Antitrust Violations - 888-647-3258
Voice-related mobile phone application get rejected? Competitor buying out every other business in your vertical? Unruly railroads getting out of hand, again? This toll free number lets you blow the whistle on those corporate fat cats.
9. Internal Revenue Service Federal Tax Hotline- 800-829-1040
If something comes up where you really, really have to get in contact with the IRS, I’d bet good money they already know and are dialing you as you read this. You should probably answer.
10. USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline - 800-535-4555
You certainly don’t have to be a germaphobe to want to keep yourself and your family away from Salmonella and its cousins. Call this 800 number to get some great tips on how to avoid serious foodborne illness. Tainted meat is nobody’s friend.
