Messaging Compliance
Here’s the 4-1-1
on A2P messaging
The major mobile carriers have set industry standards for A2P business messaging (Application to Person). That’s what our email-texting platform is: a way for your business to use an application to send and receive messages with another person. Whether you send messages from a Local Number (known as 10-Digit Long Code or 10DLC) or a Toll Free number, there are compliance pathways you will need to follow. We provide all the information and support you need to get your business email-texting ASAP!
Follow these links to learn more:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my own campaign?
For either 10DLC Messaging Campaigns or Toll Free Verification, it takes about 4-5 business days to receive a response. If approved, you can begin messaging right away. If rejected, we’ll help you address the issues and resubmit.
Can I just text someone first and ask for consent?
In business messaging, you must receive consent prior to sending a message. Consider the ways that you request or collect a phone number–it is at that moment when you are requesting the phone number that you should request consent.
A new prospect messaged us with a question. Can I continue to message them?
When the consumer initiates the messaging, you may respond to each individual inquiry with relevant information. You must ask for consent if you wish to initiate a new conversation with the consumer or continue to message them.
For example, let’s say you receive a message asking about a service you might provide and you respond. You cannot then add their phone number to your list and begin texting them a link to your weekly newsletter. Instead, include an invitation to receive your newsletter in your response, like this: Yes, we provide that service and offer discounts in our weekly newsletter. We message out a link once a week to anyone who is interested. Would you like to opt-in to receive our newsletter?
All of my clients expect me to text them. Why do I need to get consent?
Consent is required, even in situations where the recipient is expecting your message. Simple changes to office procedures make it easy to collect consent verbally during new client intake or on their client paperwork. Record their consent response in their client record. If someone declines texting communication, honor their request.
We never had to do any of this before now. How can I text my current customers who never opted in to messaging?
It can be tough to play ‘catch up’ but with some thought and planning, you can find ways to adopt office procedures where messaging consent is collected. Add it to procedures in every office visit. You can set up a QR code at the receptionist desk. You may also collect consent verbally over the phone or in writing over email. Use your CRM fields to track if consent has been asked and their response.