The 411 On Free Directory Assistance

The money you spend on 411 calls may seem like small potatoes, but it's really big business.

Each time you ask an operator to look up a number or place a call, you're charged $1-$2 — and those fees add up fast. Revenue from 411 calls was nearly $8 billion in 2006, reports The New York Times.

To avoid these fees, some consumers are opting to log on to their computers rather than pick up the phone when they need a number.

There are many free online directories, including White Pages.com and Switchboard.com. But these Web sites are really just the 21st-century equivalent of the phone book — and, like it, they require more time and effort than many of us are willing to expend.

Now those of us addicted to dialing when we need a number have another option: Google Voice Local Search, a free 411 service.

Just dial 1-800-GOOG-411. You can search by business name (Bill's Bait Shop) or category (fishing supplies). Once your number is located, you are connected at no charge and, unlike other free phone directories, you aren't bombarded with advertisements while you wait.

Word of warning: GOOG-411 is still in the testing stages, so be prepared for some hiccups in service.

By Marshall Loeb