The 411 directory assistance number charges you each time you call to look up a number. There are free services that can help you avoid these charges.
Step 1
Free telephone services such as 1-800-Free411 offer directory assistance. These services rely on advertising and make you listen to a short advertisement before you search for your number.
Step 2
If you have access to the web, doing a simple search for a business website and its contact information is one way to avoid 411 charges. You can also use web directory assistance search sites such as Anywho.com.
Step 3
Some phone services offer directory assistance to their customers. Google allows smartphone users to text the name of a business and its location to get the number. Gmail account holders can use its phone-calling features to call U.S. businesses for free.