What is the Reassigned Numbers Database?
The Reassigned Numbers Database is an FCC database callers can check to learn whether a phone number may have been reassigned to someone new.
How it works
Phone numbers get disconnected and handed to new people. The FCC set up the database so callers can avoid calling someone who never gave consent but inherited a number. Service providers must report permanent disconnections each month and wait at least 45 days before reassigning a disconnected number.
A caller enters a number and the date it got consent, or the last date it knew the person had that number. The database answers "yes" (disconnected since that date, possibly reassigned), "no" (not disconnected since then) or "no data." Using it requires a paid subscription.
Why it matters for sales teams
FCC rules give a safe harbor. A caller is not liable for calling a reassigned number if it had consent, checked the database before calling, and got a "no" answer that turned out to be wrong. The FCC says callers may be liable if they call a reassigned number without checking, or check and then knowingly call a reassigned number without consent. It fits alongside phone number validation.
This is a general definition, not legal advice.