If you’ve ever needed to call a 0333 number, you might have wondered what you’ll be charged, especially if calling from BT.
As of 2025, the good news is that calling a 0333 number costs the same as calling any 01 or 02 UK landline. These numbers are regulated by Ofcom to ensure transparent, fair pricing. So, no hidden premium-rate fees.
Whether the call is free or up to 16p per minute depends entirely on your calling plan.
Are 0333 numbers FREE to call?
0333 numbers are not automatically free, but they are included in most inclusive minute bundles.
Many BT packages include 0333 calls:
If you have BT Unlimited Minutes, BT Anytime or similar plans, then calls to 0333 numbers are typically free – exactly like a standard landline call.
If you don’t have inclusive minutes:
You’ll pay BT’s standard UK landline rate. BT’s 2025 pricing guidance confirms:
- Up to 16p per minute (landline)
- A call setup fee may apply on certain legacy plans
Why Are 0333 Numbers Charged Like Local Landlines?
03 Range numbers (0300, 0330, 0333, 0345 etc.) are regulated so that:
- They must not cost more than standard landline calls
- They must be included in mobile & landline bundles
- They cannot carry premium-rate fees
This makes 0333 a trusted, UK-wide non-geographic option that doesn’t financially penalise callers.
Price Comparison: Cost to Call 0333 Numbers (2025)
Below is a simple comparison of what callers typically pay when contacting an 0333 number from BT and major UK providers.
(Typical rates outside inclusive minutes — actual charges vary by plan)
| Provider / Network | Included in Bundles? | Typical Cost Outside Allowance | Notes |
| BT Landline | Yes | Up to 16p/min | Older plans may add call-setup fee |
| BT Mobile | Yes | 3p–10p/min | Included in most BT Mobile plans |
| EE | Yes | 5p–20p/min | Charged at standard landline rate |
| O2 | Yes | 5p–20p/min | Included for most customers |
| Vodafone | Yes | 3p–20p/min | Included on pay-monthly |
| Three | Yes | 3p–10p/min | Included in most bundles |
| Sky / TalkTalk / Plusnet | Yes | 10p–20p/min | Treated as standard geographic call |
| VoIP Providers (Vonage, etc.) | Usually | 0p–10p/min | Often discounted or free |
Key takeaway:
Most UK callers pay nothing to call 0333 numbers, as long as you still have inclusive minutes.
What’s different in 2025?
1. Nearly all UK mobile plans now include 03 numbers
This means fewer people are ever actually charged.
2. Ofcom’s “up to 16p/min” landline rate is still in force
This continues to protect consumers from premium-rate pricing structures.
3. Business use of 0333 numbers is rising
Growing VoIP adoption allows companies to use 0333 numbers without any geographic restrictions.
So… How Much Will You Pay?
It all comes down to one question:
Do you have any inclusive minutes left?
- YES = FREE to call
- NO = Up to 16p/min from BT
Still have questions find out more via 0330 332 0400
