How to Call Israel from the USA: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling internationally can seem daunting, but with the right information, connecting with friends, family, or business contacts in Israel from the United States is simple and straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a successful call every time. We’ll cover everything from dialing codes and time zone differences to cost-saving tips and alternative communication methods.
## Understanding the Basics: Dialing Codes
Before you can make your call, you need to understand the essential dialing codes. These codes act as signposts, guiding your call through the international telecommunication network to its final destination.
* **Exit Code (011):** The exit code tells your phone company that you are making an international call. In the United States, the exit code is always **011**. You must dial this first when calling outside the country.
* **Country Code for Israel (972):** Every country has a unique country code. The country code for Israel is **972**. This code identifies the call as being destined for Israel.
* **Area Codes in Israel:** Israel uses area codes to direct calls to specific regions or cities. These area codes are typically one or two digits long and are crucial for reaching the correct recipient within Israel. Here’s a list of common area codes:
* **2:** Jerusalem and surrounding areas
* **3:** Tel Aviv and central areas
* **4:** Haifa and northern areas
* **8:** Southern areas, including Beersheba
* **9:** Netanya and Sharon region
* **50, 52, 53, 54, 55:** Mobile phone numbers (these do not need an area code after them when dialing from abroad; they are directly followed by the subscriber number).
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Israel
Now that you understand the basic dialing codes, let’s put it all together with a step-by-step guide:
1. **Dial the Exit Code:** Begin by dialing the exit code for the United States, which is **011**.
2. **Dial the Country Code:** Next, dial the country code for Israel, which is **972**.
3. **Dial the Area Code (if applicable):** If you are calling a landline, dial the appropriate area code for the city or region you are trying to reach. Remember to omit the leading ‘0’ that might be present in some area codes when dialing from within Israel. However, *do include* the area code itself. If you’re calling a mobile number starting with 50, 52, 53, 54 or 55, skip this step and proceed directly to the subscriber number.
4. **Dial the Subscriber Number:** Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach. This is usually a 7 or 8-digit number.
**Example:**
Let’s say you want to call a landline in Jerusalem with the local number 123-4567. The area code for Jerusalem is 2. You would dial:
**011 (Exit Code) + 972 (Country Code) + 2 (Area Code) + 1234567 (Subscriber Number)**
So, the complete number you would dial is: **01197221234567**
If you are calling a mobile number starting with 052-XXXXXXX, you would dial:
**011 (Exit Code) + 972 (Country Code) + 52XXXXXXX (Subscriber Number)**
So, the complete number you would dial is: **01197252XXXXXXX**
## Understanding Time Zone Differences
Before making your call, it’s crucial to consider the time zone difference between the United States and Israel to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Israel operates on Israel Standard Time (IST), which is GMT+2. During Daylight Saving Time (DST), which is observed from the last Friday in March to the last Sunday in October, Israel switches to Israel Daylight Time (IDT), which is GMT+3.
The United States has several time zones, including:
* **Eastern Time (ET):** GMT-4 during DST, GMT-5 otherwise
* **Central Time (CT):** GMT-5 during DST, GMT-6 otherwise
* **Mountain Time (MT):** GMT-6 during DST, GMT-7 otherwise
* **Pacific Time (PT):** GMT-7 during DST, GMT-8 otherwise
To calculate the time difference, subtract the US time zone offset from the Israeli time zone offset.
**Example:**
If it’s 2:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) in New York (GMT-4), it’s 9:00 PM Israel Daylight Time (IDT) in Jerusalem (GMT+3). The difference is 7 hours (3 – (-4) = 7). Therefore, Israel is 7 hours ahead of New York during DST.
**Key Considerations:**
* Calling at 9:00 PM in Israel is generally acceptable, but calling much later might be disruptive.
* Use online time zone converters to double-check the current time in both locations, especially during the transition periods of DST.
* Consider your recipient’s daily routine and schedule when planning your call.
## Cost-Saving Tips for Calling Israel
International calls can be expensive, but several strategies can help you reduce the cost:
* **Check Your Mobile Carrier’s International Rates:** Contact your mobile carrier (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) to inquire about their international calling plans or rates to Israel. Some carriers offer special packages that include discounted rates or even unlimited international calling to specific countries. Be aware of per-minute charges, connection fees, and potential overage charges.
* **Use VoIP Services (Voice over Internet Protocol):** VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice allow you to make calls over the internet, often at significantly lower rates than traditional phone calls. You typically need a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) to use these services.
* **Skype:** Offers both pay-as-you-go credit and subscription plans for international calls. It’s a reliable option with good call quality.
* **WhatsApp:** Allows free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users worldwide. If your recipient also uses WhatsApp, this is a completely free option (except for the cost of your internet data).
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free calls and messaging to other Viber users and paid calls to landlines and mobile phones.
* **Google Voice:** Provides affordable international calling rates and integrates seamlessly with other Google services.
* **International Calling Cards:** These prepaid cards offer a fixed amount of calling time at a specific rate per minute. You purchase a card, dial an access number, and then enter your PIN and the destination number. While convenient, be sure to compare rates carefully and check for hidden fees or expiration dates.
* **Landline vs. Mobile:** Calling a mobile phone in Israel is often more expensive than calling a landline. If possible, try to call a landline to save money.
* **Consider the Time of Day:** Some carriers offer lower rates during off-peak hours. Check with your carrier to see if they have different rates for international calls based on the time of day.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Problems
Even with careful planning, you might encounter issues when calling Israel. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Incorrect Dialing:** Double-check that you have dialed all the codes correctly, including the exit code, country code, area code (if applicable), and subscriber number. A single incorrect digit can prevent the call from going through.
* **Poor Connection:** Poor connection quality can be caused by several factors, including a weak signal, network congestion, or problems with the VoIP service. Try the following:
* Move to an area with a stronger signal.
* Close other apps that are using your internet connection.
* Restart your phone or VoIP device.
* Try using a different VoIP service or calling card.
* **Call Not Going Through:** If your call is not going through at all, it could be due to a problem with your carrier or the recipient’s phone service. Contact your carrier to inquire about any known issues or restrictions on international calls. Ask the recipient to check their phone service to ensure they can receive international calls.
* **Unexpected Charges:** To avoid unexpected charges, always check your carrier’s international calling rates and any associated fees before making the call. If you are using a VoIP service or calling card, be aware of any hidden fees or expiration dates.
* **Blocked Numbers:** Ensure that the number you are calling hasn’t blocked your number. It’s a good idea to verify this with the person you’re trying to reach through another communication method if possible.
## Alternative Communication Methods
In addition to traditional phone calls, several alternative communication methods can help you stay connected with people in Israel:
* **Messaging Apps:** WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook Messenger are popular messaging apps that allow you to send text messages, photos, videos, and voice messages for free over the internet. These apps are widely used in Israel and are a convenient way to communicate without incurring international calling charges.
* **Video Conferencing:** Video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet allow you to have face-to-face conversations with people in Israel. These tools are great for staying in touch with family and friends or for conducting business meetings.
* **Email:** Email is a reliable way to send longer messages or documents to people in Israel. While not as immediate as phone calls or messaging apps, email is a good option for non-urgent communication.
* **Social Media:** Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you stay connected with friends, family, and business contacts in Israel. You can share updates, photos, and videos, and participate in conversations.
## Using Mobile Apps for International Calls
Several mobile apps are designed specifically for making international calls, often offering lower rates and additional features.
* **Rebtel:** Rebtel offers international calls through local phone lines, claiming to provide higher quality calls at lower prices than VoIP services. It works by assigning you a local number to call, which then connects to the international destination.
* **Talkatone:** Talkatone provides a free US phone number that can be used to make free calls and send free text messages to US and Canadian numbers. While not directly for international calls to Israel, it can be combined with other services to reduce overall costs.
* **WePhone:** WePhone allows you to make cheap international calls and texts to anyone in the world. It offers pay-as-you-go credit and various calling plans.
* **Dingtone:** Dingtone provides free phone calls and free text messages between Dingtone users. It also offers cheap international calls to any mobile or landline number in over 200 countries.
When choosing a mobile app for international calls, consider the following factors:
* **Call Quality:** Look for apps that offer good call quality, especially if you are making important business calls.
* **Pricing:** Compare the rates and fees of different apps to find the most affordable option for your needs.
* **Features:** Consider the features offered by each app, such as call recording, voicemail, and text messaging.
* **User Reviews:** Read user reviews to get an idea of the app’s reliability and ease of use.
## A Quick Recap and Checklist Before You Dial
Before you pick up your phone, run through this checklist to ensure a smooth and successful call to Israel:
* **Verify the Phone Number:** Double-check the entire phone number, including the exit code (011), country code (972), area code (if applicable), and subscriber number.
* **Consider the Time Zone:** Calculate the time difference between your location and Israel to avoid calling at inconvenient hours.
* **Check Your Carrier’s Rates:** Understand your carrier’s international calling rates and any associated fees.
* **Choose a Cost-Effective Method:** Consider using VoIP services, international calling cards, or mobile apps to save money.
* **Ensure a Strong Connection:** Make sure you have a strong signal or a stable internet connection for optimal call quality.
* **Inform Your Recipient (Optional):** If possible, let your recipient know you are planning to call so they can be prepared.
## Conclusion
Calling Israel from the USA doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the dialing codes, time zone differences, and cost-saving tips outlined in this guide, you can easily connect with friends, family, or business contacts in Israel. Whether you choose to use traditional phone calls, VoIP services, or mobile apps, remember to plan ahead and double-check all the details to ensure a successful and affordable communication experience. Stay connected!