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Have you ever wondered why Montanans proudly display three simple digits—406—on everything from bumper stickers to baseball caps?

If you’ve spent any time in the Treasure State, you’ve likely noticed this numerical phenomenon plastered across storefronts, merchandise, and social media feeds. But what makes these three digits so special that they’ve become synonymous with Montana identity itself?

For most Americans, area codes are forgettable administrative necessities—just numbers you dial before reaching someone’s phone. But in Montana, 406 has transcended its telecommunications origins to become a powerful cultural symbol that unites residents across one of the nation’s largest and most geographically diverse states.

Whether you’re a lifelong Montanan, considering a move to Big Sky Country, or simply curious about this unique cultural phenomenon, understanding the 406 goes far beyond knowing how to make a phone call.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover the fascinating story behind Montana’s 406 area code—from its technical origins in 1947 to its evolution into a badge of pride worn by Montanans worldwide.

• Related article: Montana’s Founding

You’ll discover how this single area code unifies a state larger than Germany, why businesses leverage it as a powerful branding tool, and how “406 Day” has become an unofficial state holiday.

We’ll explore the deeper meaning behind the “406 spirit,” examine its presence in popular culture, and reveal why preserving this single area code matters so deeply to Montana’s identity. By the end, you’ll understand why 406 isn’t just an area code—it’s the numeric heartbeat of Montana itself.

What Does Montana 406 Mean?

Montana 406 isn’t just a number you dial before making a phone call—it’s a symbol of identity, pride, and belonging that resonates deeply with Montanans. As one of the few states still unified under a single area code, 406 has transcended its utilitarian purpose to become a cultural touchstone that represents the vast landscapes, independent spirit, and tight-knit communities of the Treasure State.

When you see “406” emblazoned on t-shirts, bumper stickers, and baseball caps throughout Montana, you’re witnessing more than just three digits—you’re seeing a declaration of state pride. For locals, it’s an immediate identifier, a shorthand way of saying, “I’m from Montana” without uttering a word. For businesses, it’s a brand element that instantly communicates authentic Montana roots.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Montana’s 406 area code, how it evolved from a simple telephone prefix to a powerful cultural symbol, and why it matters so deeply to those who call Montana home. We’ll dive into its presence in popular culture, its commercial applications, and how it continues to unite a geographically vast state with a relatively small population. By the end, you’ll understand why “406” means so much more than just an area code—it’s the numeric heartbeat of Montana.

What Is Montana 406?

Montana 406 refers to the sole telephone area code that serves the entire state of Montana. Unlike most states which require multiple area codes to accommodate their population density, Montana remains one of only a handful of states that still operates with just a single area code. When you see “406” displayed on merchandise, bumper stickers, or social media hashtags throughout Montana, it’s not just a random number—it’s a proud symbol of state identity.

The 406 area code covers all 147,040 square miles of Montana’s diverse landscape, from the Rocky Mountains in the west to the eastern plains, serving approximately 1.1 million residents across the state. This single area code connects every corner of Montana’s vast territory, from bustling cities like Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls to the most remote rural communities.

Montana shares this distinction of having just one area code with only a few other states, including Alaska (907), Delaware (302), Hawaii (808), Idaho (208), Maine (207), New Hampshire (603), Rhode Island (401), South Dakota (605), Vermont (802), and Wyoming (307). This exclusive club highlights Montana’s relatively low population density despite its enormous geographic size.

For calling within Montana, residents can still use seven-digit dialing for local calls in many areas, though 10-digit dialing (area code + phone number) has become increasingly standard practice nationwide. For long-distance calls within the state, the full 10-digit number with the 406 prefix is required. When calling Montana from outside the state, callers must dial 1-406 followed by the seven-digit phone number.

The 406 area code was established in 1947 during the original North American area code rollout, and remarkably, Montana has never needed to add additional area codes despite population growth over the decades. Current projections suggest Montana may be able to maintain its single area code status for the foreseeable future, preserving this distinctive aspect of the state’s telecommunications identity.

Montana 406 Origins

Montana’s iconic 406 area code was established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), a system developed by AT&T and Bell Laboratories to streamline and organize the rapidly expanding telephone network across the United States and Canada. This comprehensive plan divided North America into distinct regions, each assigned a three-digit area code.

The selection of 406 for Montana wasn’t random but followed a logical pattern within the original NANP framework. In the initial numbering system, area codes with a 0 as the middle digit were typically assigned to states or provinces that had only one area code covering their entire territory. The first digit (4) indicated the general geographic region—in this case, the northwestern United States.

Montana received 406 because of its relatively low population density at the time. The engineers designing the system anticipated that Montana would likely never need multiple area codes due to its vast land area but comparatively small population. This prediction has proven remarkably accurate, as Montana remains one of the few states still operating with just a single area code more than 75 years later.

The specific selection of “406” also had technical considerations. In the era of rotary phones, codes with lower middle digits required less time to dial, with each number corresponding to the number of “clicks” as the dial returned to its resting position. The “0” in the middle position required 10 clicks, making these area codes slightly more cumbersome to dial but reserving them for less frequently called regions—typically those with lower population densities.

What began as a simple telephone routing designation has evolved over decades to become a powerful cultural identifier. The 406 code has endured through the telecommunications revolution, from party lines and operator-assisted calls to the digital age of smartphones and VoIP technology, remaining unchanged while many states have been subdivided into multiple area codes to accommodate growing demand for telephone numbers.

Montana’s Symbol of Geographic Pride

Montana’s 406 area code has undergone a remarkable transformation from a simple telephone prefix to a powerful symbol of state identity and pride. What began as a utilitarian number assigned by telecommunications authorities has evolved into a shorthand representation of everything Montana stands for.

The journey from phone code to cultural icon happened organically as Montanans embraced the uniqueness of having a single area code for the entire state. Unlike densely populated regions where multiple area codes divide communities, Montana’s 406 unifies the state under one numerical banner. This singularity has become a point of distinction and pride.

Today, “406” appears on virtually every form of merchandise imaginable throughout the state. Gift shops from Kalispell to Billings showcase shelves lined with coffee mugs, t-shirts, and baseball caps emblazoned with the three digits. Local artisans incorporate the number into handcrafted jewelry, wooden signs, and artwork, creating unique expressions of Montana identity through these numerals.

Perhaps most visibly, bumper stickers and vehicle decals featuring the 406 have become ubiquitous on Montana’s highways and beyond. These mobile declarations of state allegiance announce the driver’s Montana connections wherever they travel. The popularity of these stickers extends beyond state lines, with expatriate Montanans proudly displaying their roots on vehicles across the country.

Apparel brands have capitalized on this phenomenon, with numerous Montana-based clothing companies incorporating 406 into their brand names and designs. From casual wear to outdoor gear, the number appears as a subtle nod on shirt sleeves or boldly across chests. These items serve dual purposes – identifying the wearer as a Montanan while supporting local businesses.

For locals, the 406 has become a convenient shorthand for expressing their identity. When traveling outside the state, mentioning you’re “from the 406” immediately signals Montana origins to fellow Montanans, creating instant connections and camaraderie. This shared numerical identity transcends the state’s vast geographic differences, uniting residents from diverse regions.

Social media has amplified this trend, with hashtags like #406life and #montana406 gathering thousands of posts celebrating the Montana lifestyle. Instagram accounts dedicated to showcasing Montana’s beauty and culture incorporate the numbers into their handles, further cementing the association between the area code and state identity.

What makes the 406 phenomenon particularly interesting is how it bridges Montana’s notable rural-urban divides. Whether you’re from Missoula’s university district or a remote ranch in eastern Montana, the 406 serves as common ground – a shared symbol that acknowledges belonging to the same distinctive state, regardless of political leanings or lifestyle differences.

The 406 has thus evolved into more than just a convenient marketing tool – it has become a genuine expression of geographic pride, a numerical shorthand for the independent spirit, natural beauty, and unique character that defines Montana in the minds of those who call it home.

Montana 406 in Popular Culture

Montana’s area code has transcended its utilitarian purpose to become a cultural touchstone that appears throughout music, film, literature, and social media. The “406” has evolved into a symbol of Montana identity that resonates far beyond the state’s borders.

In the music scene, Montana-born artists frequently incorporate “406” into their work as a badge of honor. Musicians like Tim Montana have embraced the area code in their branding, while other local artists weave references to “the 406” into lyrics celebrating the state’s rugged landscape and independent spirit. The annual “406 Festival” brings together musicians from across the state, uniting them under their shared area code identity.

Hollywood has also caught on to the 406 mystique. When filmmakers want to establish an authentic Montana setting, subtle references to the area code often appear on screen—from background props like local business signs to characters mentioning “calling back to the 406.” The critically acclaimed series “Yellowstone,” set in Montana, has further cemented the area code’s place in popular culture, with merchandise and promotional materials often incorporating the three digits.

Montana literature similarly embraces the 406 connection. Local authors frequently reference the area code in their works about the state, using it as shorthand for the Montana experience. Book titles like “Tales from the 406” and “Coming Home to 406” leverage the immediate recognition the number provides.

In today’s digital landscape, social media has amplified the 406 identity exponentially. Hashtags like #406life, #montana406, and simply #406 connect thousands of posts celebrating Montana’s outdoor adventures, small-town charm, and breathtaking landscapes. These tags have become virtual gathering places for Montanans and Montana enthusiasts alike, creating communities that transcend physical boundaries.

The 406 has also gained traction through celebrity connections. Famous Montana natives or transplants often reference their 406 roots in interviews or social media. Celebrities who own property in Montana—particularly in upscale areas like Big Sky or near Yellowstone—sometimes adopt the 406 moniker as a way to signal their connection to the state. When these public figures share Montana experiences tagged with #406, they introduce the area code’s cultural significance to wider audiences.

Merchandising has further embedded 406 in popular culture, with everything from t-shirts and hats to coffee mugs and bumper stickers proudly displaying the three digits. These items serve as both souvenirs for visitors and badges of identity for locals, turning a simple area code into a marketable symbol of Montana pride.

What makes the 406 phenomenon particularly interesting is how it bridges generations—from older Montanans who remember when the area code was introduced to younger residents who have grown up seeing it as an established symbol of state identity. This multigenerational appeal has helped cement 406’s place in Montana’s cultural landscape for years to come.

The Business of 406

Montana’s area code has transformed from a simple telephone prefix into a powerful branding tool and economic driver across the state. The three digits “406” have become a shorthand for authentic Montana products, experiences, and businesses.

Local entrepreneurs have embraced the area code as a business naming convention, creating instant recognition and regional pride. Companies like “406 Brewing Company” in Bozeman, “406 Kitchen & Taproom” in Kalispell, and “406 Wilderness Outfitters” leverage the numerical brand to signal their Montana roots. These businesses tap into locals’ state pride while simultaneously creating an authentic connection with tourists seeking genuine Montana experiences.

Marketing strategies incorporating 406 extend beyond simple naming. The area code appears on everything from t-shirts and hats to coffee mugs and bumper stickers. These items serve dual purposes—allowing Montanans to display their state pride while creating desirable souvenirs for visitors. Local marketing campaigns often incorporate “406” as a hashtag or rallying cry, particularly for Montana-made products and services.

The economic impact of 406-branded merchandise has been substantial. Small businesses throughout the state produce 406-themed products that sell year-round in gift shops, boutiques, and online stores. During peak tourist seasons, these items become particularly profitable as visitors seek tangible connections to their Montana experience.

Tourism operators have also recognized the branding power of 406, incorporating it into experience packages like “406 Adventures” or “Explore 406” tours. This creates an immediate association with authentic Montana experiences, distinguishing local operators from national chains or out-of-state businesses.

What makes the 406 brand particularly valuable is its exclusivity—Montana remains one of the few states with a single area code, making these three digits a unifying symbol across its vast territory. This exclusivity has created a distinctive marketing advantage that businesses continue to leverage in creative and profitable ways.

406 Day: Celebrating Montana Pride

April 6th (4/06) has evolved into an unofficial state holiday known simply as “406 Day” across Montana. This celebration emerged organically as Montanans recognized the clever calendar alignment with their beloved area code. What began as a social media hashtag has blossomed into a full-fledged celebration of Montana identity and culture.

On 406 Day, residents showcase their state pride through various activities and gatherings. Local breweries release special “406” themed beers, restaurants offer Montana-sourced meal specials, and retailers promote Montana-made products with “406” discounts. Social media platforms buzz with #406Day posts featuring stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and Montana lifestyle moments.

Many communities organize special events like farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and charity fundraisers specifically for this date. In Missoula, the annual “406 Fun Run” raises money for local conservation efforts, while Helena hosts a “406 Street Festival” featuring local artists and musicians. Bozeman businesses often collaborate on “406 Passport” promotions, encouraging residents to visit multiple local establishments throughout the day.

The holiday has gained such popularity that the Montana Office of Tourism now incorporates 406 Day into its promotional calendar, creating campaigns that encourage both residents and visitors to explore new parts of the state on this special date. Even Montana expatriates living elsewhere use the day to connect with their home state, often hosting Montana-themed gatherings wherever they’ve relocated.

What makes 406 Day particularly special is how it celebrates Montana’s unique character—not through government mandate but through grassroots enthusiasm for what makes the state distinctive. The date serves as a reminder of Montana’s cohesiveness despite its vast geography, unified under a single area code that has become much more than just a telephone prefix.

Digital Identity and 406

Montana’s 406 area code has transcended its original telecommunications purpose to become a powerful digital identifier for residents and businesses alike. In today’s connected world, the three digits serve as a virtual badge of Montana pride across various digital platforms.

Many Montanans incorporate “406” into their online usernames, creating instant recognition among fellow state residents. Whether it’s “MontanaGirl406” on Instagram, “Fisherman406” on Reddit, or “406Hiker” on outdoor forums, these digital handles signal a connection to Big Sky Country. This practice has become so common that seeing “406” in a username immediately suggests a Montana connection to those in the know.

Email addresses follow a similar pattern, with many residents and businesses incorporating the area code into their digital correspondence identities. Addresses like “john@406design.com” or “contact@explore406.net” immediately communicate Montana origins to recipients, creating a geographical anchor in the borderless digital realm.

The domain name landscape further reflects this trend, with numerous Montana businesses securing web addresses that include the iconic numbers. From “406brewing.com” for craft beer enthusiasts to “visit406.com” for tourism services, these digital properties leverage the immediate recognition the area code provides. The Montana Office of Tourism itself has recognized the branding power, incorporating “406” into various digital campaigns to reinforce the state’s identity.

Perhaps most significantly, “406” has become a rallying point for digital communities of Montanans. Facebook groups like “406 Families,” “406 Outdoors,” and “406 Marketplace” create virtual gathering spaces for residents to connect, share information, and maintain their Montana identity regardless of physical location. These online communities prove particularly valuable for Montanans who have moved away but wish to maintain connections to their home state.

Instagram hashtags further demonstrate this digital community-building, with #406life, #406proud, and #montana406 collecting hundreds of thousands of posts showcasing Montana experiences. These digital breadcrumbs create a collective portrait of life in the Treasure State, accessible to anyone searching for Montana content.

The digital embrace of 406 extends to Montana expatriates as well. Former residents living elsewhere often maintain their digital Montana identity through 406 references, creating a diaspora of digital Montanans connected through these three simple digits. For many, incorporating “406” into their online presence serves as a digital tether to home, maintaining connections across vast distances.

This digital manifestation of 406 pride demonstrates how a simple area code has evolved into something far more meaningful—a shorthand for Montana identity that transcends geographical boundaries in our increasingly connected world.

Preserving the Single Area Code

Montana holds a distinct honor in today’s increasingly crowded telecommunications landscape—it remains one of the few states still operating under a single area code. While most states have been carved into multiple area code regions due to population growth and increasing demand for phone numbers, Montana has fiercely preserved its singular 406 identity.

The effort to maintain 406 as Montana’s only area code has become something of a point of pride for residents. In the early 2000s, when many states were implementing additional area codes, Montana telecommunications authorities took proactive steps to conserve their number supply. They implemented number pooling techniques, where unused phone numbers are returned to the available inventory rather than remaining assigned to carriers who weren’t using them.

This conservation approach faced technical challenges, particularly as mobile phones and other devices requiring unique numbers proliferated. The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA), which oversees telephone numbering resources, worked with Montana to implement number assignment efficiency measures. Rather than assigning numbers in blocks of 10,000 as was traditional, Montana moved to 1,000-number blocks, dramatically extending the lifespan of the 406 area code.

Another technical solution involved requiring 10-digit dialing even for local calls within Montana. While this created some initial confusion, it eliminated the need for separate area codes for different regions of the state.

Looking toward the future, predictions about how long Montana can maintain its single area code status vary. Current projections suggest the state may be able to preserve 406 exclusivity until approximately 2030-2035, depending on population growth trends and technology shifts. Some telecommunications experts believe that the increasing use of non-traditional communication methods like messaging apps and VoIP services might actually extend this timeline further, as they reduce the demand for traditional telephone numbers.

For Montanans, preserving the 406 area code isn’t just about avoiding the inconvenience of area code changes—it’s about maintaining a unifying symbol that represents their state identity. As one of the last single area code states in the nation, Montana’s 406 has transcended its technical purpose to become a cultural touchstone worth protecting.

406 Across State Boundaries

The power of Montana’s 406 area code extends far beyond the state’s geographical borders. For former Montanans who have relocated to different parts of the country or world, “406” serves as a symbolic tether to their home state and a badge of their origins.

When Montanans move away, many maintain their 406 phone numbers as a point of pride and connection to their roots. It’s not uncommon to meet someone in Seattle, Los Angeles, or New York whose phone number begins with those three distinctive digits. This preservation of a Montana phone number isn’t merely practical—it’s a statement of identity and belonging.

“406” has become a rallying point for Montana expatriate communities across the United States. In cities with significant Montana diaspora populations, informal networks and formal social clubs have formed under names like “406 Club,” “Montana Meetup,” or “Big Sky Away.” These communities organize events ranging from Montana-themed parties to viewing gatherings for Grizzlies or Bobcats games, creating pockets of Montana culture wherever they settle.

Social media has amplified this phenomenon, with Facebook groups and Instagram accounts dedicated to connecting displaced Montanans. Hashtags like #406forever and #montanaeverywhere help former residents find each other and maintain their connections to the state.

Perhaps most telling is how former Montanans introduce themselves to each other when meeting in distant places. “I’m from the 406” has become shorthand for claiming Montana heritage, often followed by enthusiastic conversations about shared experiences, mutual connections, and nostalgic reminiscences about life in the Treasure State.

This geographic dispersal of Montana’s identity through its area code demonstrates how deeply ingrained 406 has become in the state’s cultural fabric. For those who have left Montana physically but carry it in their hearts, “406” represents not just where they’re from, but who they are—a portable piece of Montana identity that travels wherever they go.

The 406 Spirit

Montana’s 406 area code has evolved far beyond a simple telephone prefix to become a powerful symbol of shared identity and values among Montanans. The 406 spirit embodies the distinctive characteristics that define the Montana way of life.

At its core, the 406 spirit represents Montana’s fiercely independent nature. Montanans pride themselves on self-reliance and resourcefulness—traits born from generations of living in a challenging landscape where harsh winters and vast distances between communities foster a do-it-yourself mentality. This independence doesn’t mean isolation, however. The 406 spirit includes a profound sense of community responsibility, where neighbors help neighbors without hesitation.

The rugged individualism of Montana’s culture is perfectly captured in the 406 identity. Montanans embrace outdoor traditions like hunting, fishing, ranching, and exploring the state’s magnificent wilderness areas. These activities aren’t just hobbies—they’re integral parts of the Montana lifestyle that connect residents to the land and to generations past.

There’s an authenticity to the 406 spirit that residents cherish. In a world increasingly dominated by homogenized experiences, Montana’s distinct culture stands apart. People from the 406 often describe a refreshing straightforwardness in their interactions—where a handshake still means something and where communities rally together during challenging times.

The 406 identity also encompasses a deep environmental stewardship. Montanans understand their connection to the land and typically share a conservation ethic that balances use with preservation. Whether ranchers practicing sustainable grazing or outdoor enthusiasts advocating for wilderness protection, the 406 spirit includes a responsibility to protect Montana’s natural heritage.

Community bonds form another cornerstone of the 406 identity. In small towns across the state, the sense of belonging transcends political differences and economic circumstances. Friday night high school football games, community fundraisers, and local festivals strengthen these connections, creating a shared experience that reinforces what it means to be from Montana.

Perhaps most telling is how the 406 identity travels with Montanans wherever they go. Former residents often maintain their 406 phone numbers as badges of honor long after moving away. The number becomes a conversation starter, a way to identify fellow Montanans, and a reminder of home. “You can take the person out of Montana, but you can’t take the 406 out of the person” is a sentiment many transplanted Montanans express.

The 406 spirit ultimately represents a way of life that values substance over style, community over convenience, and authenticity over artifice—qualities that continue to define Montana’s unique place in American culture.

Geographic Divisions Within 406

Montana’s vastness creates distinct regional identities that might seem to divide the state, yet the 406 area code serves as a unifying thread connecting these diverse landscapes and communities. From the rugged Rocky Mountains dominating the western third to the sweeping plains stretching eastward, Montana encompasses dramatically different geographical realities under a single numerical identity.

Western Montana, with its mountainous terrain, dense forests, and glacier-carved valleys, fosters a lifestyle centered around outdoor recreation, tourism, and resource industries. Cities like Missoula, Kalispell, and Bozeman embody a culture influenced by mountain living, university presence, and growing tech sectors. The western region tends to attract outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and those seeking proximity to wilderness.

Eastern Montana presents an entirely different world—vast prairies, badlands, and agricultural expanses where ranching and farming dominate the economy and culture. Communities like Billings, Miles City, and Sidney operate on rhythms dictated by agriculture, energy development, and wide-open spaces. Here, residents often pride themselves on self-reliance, traditional values, and deep connections to the land.

These regional distinctions create what some Montanans jokingly refer to as “two Montanas,” with noticeable differences in politics, lifestyle, and economic priorities. The western mountains tend toward more progressive politics, while eastern plains communities often maintain more conservative traditions.

Despite these differences, when Montanans travel outside the state, regional distinctions fade behind their shared identity as “406ers.” The area code becomes a shorthand for a collective experience of Montana values—appreciation for open spaces, independent spirit, and connection to the natural world. Whether from Libby in the northwest corner or Ekalaka in the southeast, all Montanans recognize the 406 as their common identifier.

This unity through 406 becomes particularly evident during statewide challenges like wildfire seasons, harsh winters, or economic hardships. The phrase “406 strong” emerges during these times, with Montanans supporting each other across regional divides. Local businesses throughout the state incorporate 406 into their names and branding regardless of their location, embracing the numerical symbol that transcends Montana’s geographical diversity.

The 406 identity reminds Montanans that despite living in a state where eastern and western residents might be separated by 700 miles and distinctly different landscapes, they share a common bond—one that’s recognized immediately when a phone number beginning with those three digits appears on a caller ID anywhere in the country.

What Does Montana 406 Mean Final Thoughts

Montana’s 406 area code has transcended its original utilitarian purpose to become something far more meaningful—a unifying symbol that represents the spirit of Montana and its people. What began as a simple three-digit telephone prefix has evolved into a powerful cultural identifier that Montanans wear with pride on clothing, display on bumper stickers, and incorporate into business names across the state.

The 406 phenomenon demonstrates how seemingly mundane aspects of our infrastructure can take on profound cultural significance. In a vast state where communities are separated by hundreds of miles of open space, the shared 406 prefix creates an immediate sense of connection. When Montanans meet each other outside the state, mentioning “406” serves as an instant recognition signal—a shorthand for shared values, experiences, and love for their home state.

This area code has become particularly important in the digital age, where geographic boundaries blur. The 406 identifier helps preserve Montana’s unique identity amid increasing homogenization. It represents not just a place on the map, but a way of life characterized by independence, resilience, and appreciation for natural beauty.

As Montana continues to grow and evolve, the 406 symbol will likely strengthen rather than diminish. New generations of Montanans embrace it as readily as their predecessors, incorporating it into modern expressions of state pride. The fact that Montana remains one of the few states still unified under a single area code only enhances its symbolic power.

The 406 phenomenon reminds us that community identity forms in unexpected ways. What matters isn’t the origin of a symbol but how people invest it with meaning. For Montanans, those three digits represent home—a connection to the land, to each other, and to a shared heritage that continues to shape their collective future.

What Does Montana 406 Mean FAQs

Sources

• https://psc.mt.gov/News/2021/10-digit-dialing
• https://psc.mt.gov/News/2022/news-article1
• https://biz.sosmt.gov/search/business