If SMS texting is vital for your business communications, registering for 10DLC is essential. This new requirement, mandated by the U.S. federal government, aims to combat the rise of spam messages by ensuring that all major mobile network operators (MNOs)—including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and others—enforce regulations on SMS/MMS communications.
Key Changes Since September 2023
All businesses using ten-digit U.S. phone numbers for text messaging must register their Brand and SMS/MMS campaigns with The Campaign Registry (TCR). While service providers have made the registration process more accessible through their administrative portals, the responsibility for completing and monitoring this process lies with you. Look for notifications regarding your registration status and promptly address any required corrections.
Why Registration is Critical
Proper registration ensures that your SMS efforts are recognized and legitimized, reducing the risk of message blocking and elevated fees. Without it, your messages may be seen as spam, leading to interruptions in communication and potential penalties for non-compliance.
Benefits of Proper 10DLC Registration
- Increased Efficiency: Streamlines the SMS sending process.
- Faster Approvals: Expedites registration and campaign approvals.
- Reduced Compliance Risk: Lowers the chance of penalties for non-compliance.
- Brand Credibility: Enhances trust with MNOs and customers.
- Minimized Interruptions: Ensures consistent communication for staff and clients.
Action Steps Required
- Complete Your Registration: Your Company Administrator should complete the registration process, which takes about 10 minutes. Prepare to provide detailed information about your organization and messaging practices.
- Gather Necessary Documentation:
- Legal business name and DBA
- Tax ID number
- Type of business entity (e.g., Private Profit, Non-Profit)
- Contact details for the registration supervisor
- Industry, website URL, and business address
- Proof of business registration and Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Align Your Privacy Policy: Ensure compliance with CTIA guidelines to protect customer privacy. Your Privacy Policy is posted on your website.
Compliance with Rules and Regulations
To maintain compliance:
- Follow Content Guidelines: Adhere to CTIA standards to avoid spammy practices.
- Implement Clear Opt-In/Opt-Out Procedures: Make it easy for consumers to opt-in and opt-out.
- Protect Customer Data: Your privacy policy should clearly outline how customer data is protected.
Preparing for the Registration Process
- Understand Your Campaign Requirements: Know your audience and the types of messages you plan to send.
- Provide Accurate Contact Information: Include the phone number and email of the individual managing your messaging.
Acceptable and Rejectable Criteria
Acceptable Criteria:
- A secure, functional website with clear opt-in language.
- Content that aligns with your messaging use cases.
Rejectable Criteria:
- Unsecured or non-functional websites.
- Placeholder or inactive Privacy Policy pages.
Content Guidelines
- Permitted Content: Messages about your services, events, customer care, and non-profit initiatives.
- Content to Avoid: Illegal or misleading content, and sensitive topics without secure age verification (S.H.A.F.T. content).
Obtaining Consent
Clear opt-in language is vital. Use statements like:
“I agree to receive marketing text messages from [Your Brand Name]. I can opt-out anytime by replying STOP.”
This confirms consumer consent and outlines their rights.
Don’t delay—get your business registered immediately!
If texting is a crucial part of your business, monitor your administrative portal daily for updates. If you haven’t received an approval or detailed rejection within four weeks, contact customer support.
Get Expert Guidance
Keep in mind, if you change phone systems, you must resubmit your 10DLC registration through your new provider. My Resource Partners collaborates with top Unified Communications and Contact Center providers in the nation to simplify the registration process. Take advantage of our FREE Phone System Evaluation. It’s a comprehensive analysis of how your staff communicates and operates. With evaluation in place, our advisors can quickly connect you with phone system providers who best match your goals and budget. And, through our wholesale network, we’ll save you 35% or more!
