What is the 256 Area Code?

Huntsville, AL
Safety Rating: MODERATE

The 256 area code serves Huntsville, AL and surrounding areas. Established in 1947, it covers Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Cullman, Florence.

Legitimate Callers from 256

Government

Social Security Administration

Benefits and verification calls

Verify Caller
Official Prefix: 800-772

Internal Revenue Service

Tax-related communications

Verify Caller
Official Prefix: 800-829

Utilities

Service and billing notifications

Healthcare

Appointment reminders and follow-ups

Timezone

Central Time (UTC-6)

Risk Level

5.2/10

2023 Scams

5630

Population

Approximately 500,000

Regional Information

Major Cities

  • Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Cullman, Florence

Major Employers

  • Redstone Arsenal, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama

Local Authorities

  • Police: Huntsville Police Department: (256) 722-7100
  • Consumer Protection: Alabama Attorney General's Office: (334) 231-7341
  • Fraud Unit: Madison County Sheriff's Office Fraud Unit: (256) 533-8873

Active Scam Alerts

No active scam alerts at this time.

Safety Resources

How to Report Scams

Immediate Steps:

  • Document the call details
  • Report to FTC at ftc.gov/complaint
  • Contact local authorities
  • Alert your bank if needed

Follow-up Actions:

  • File written complaint
  • Monitor credit reports
  • Join Do Not Call Registry
  • Share alert with community

Local Support

Huntsville Consumer Protection Office