At least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a method comprising the activities of detecting, via a public switched telephone network, a caller's dialing of a telephone number; and after said detecting activity, and prior to call setup, providing to the caller a voicemail status notification. At least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a method comprising the activities of placing a telephone call via a public switched telephone network, and receiving, via the public switched telephone network, a voicemail status notification after placing the telephone call and prior to call setup. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. This abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope.