Tolling is the process of calling a toll-free number, usually on a landline, to retrieve axxxxxx or answering machine greeting. The xxxxxxx xx is replaced by the phone number to be called.

Presently, toll calls are usually charged at a flat rate even if the recipient is not on the National Do Not Call Registry. Formerly, toll-free numbers were exempt from these charges and while they are no longer exempt they are also not subject to a per-minute charge.

In general, toll-free numbers are preferred by businesses because they do not incur the costs of long-distance telephone service.