Companies interested in setting up a 900 number can choose either to work directly with a carrier or to sign up with a service bureau.

Working directly with a carrier is generally an option only for larger companies that have an advanced PBX phone system. You will typically require an automated attendant system to answer incoming calls and alert users to the charges, plus automatic number identification capabilities to identify the number that will be billed for the call. In most cases, this will require a direct T1 connection between your phone system and a long distance carrier, which will cost several thousand dollars to install and maintain on a monthly basis.

Most smaller companies will want to work with a service bureau. These companies have already made the investment in phone equipment and lines, and have 900 numbers available for almost immediate use. A 900 service bureau not only provides access to a 900 number, but can also help design a program that will comply with all regulatory requirements. Service centers can also provide office space and support for smaller companies unable to support a full calling center in their own offices.