If you’re texting customers with US numbers without following SMS regulations, you could face significant fines and even be banned by your provider. In the United States, communication over text is highly regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and mobile network operators such as Verizon and T-Mobile.
As a small business owner, it can be challenging to know if you’re following SMS regulations — namely if you’ve received proper consent to text your customers. Similarly, you may struggle to prove consent if you’re filling out A2P 10DLC registration.
Below, we’ve drafted a sample text messaging consent document for your convenience. Feel free to adjust the wording for your organization and keep a copy for your records. We’ve also included an SMS-compliant opt-in web form if you collect consent through a website.
Physical form: Consent for text messaging agreement
Would you like to stay updated with important information from [business name]? We are pleased to offer you the option to receive text message reminders about your account. This service is optional, and you will continue to receive notices by mail regardless of your choice to opt in for text messages.
Your privacy and security are our top priorities. Before proceeding, please note that text messages are not confidential. Anyone with access to your cell phone may view these messages. Additionally, your service provider, as well as [business name], may have access to these messages. Standard text message rates may apply, depending on your service provider.
We will only send you text messages with your explicit consent. By agreeing to this Consent for text messaging agreement, you authorize [business name] to send you text messages regarding appointments, renewals, and other information related to your account. You can opt out of this service at any time by texting STOP to any message. For assistance, text HELP, or you can get help directly at [support email address or toll-free number]. You can request a copy of our terms of service and privacy policies at any time.
Please return this form in the attached envelope.
I understand this service is optional, and I can stop it at any time. I would like to receive text messages from [business name].
𝤿 Yes 𝤿 No
Printed name:
Date of birth:
Signature:
Date:
Cell phone number:
Account number:
Make a copy of this Consent for text messaging agreement on Google Docs.
Web form: SMS compliant opt-in form
If you want to collect SMS opt-ins on your website, you need to have a compliant form like the one below.
Make a copy of this SMS-compliant opt-in form on Jotform.
Wrap up: Ensuring SMS compliance for your business
Following SMS regulations is a must to maintain good deliverability rates and avoid fines, but it can be hard for small business owners to know where to start. The sample text messaging consent templates in this article will help align your SMS practices with regulatory requirements.
Navigating SMS compliance doesn’t have to be daunting. To further assist you, we encourage you to check out our comprehensive SMS compliance guide.
