As of 2026, the FCC and mobile carriers require all custom toll-free numbers to be verified before sending text messages. Unverified numbers can place voice calls, but all outbound SMS/MMS traffic will be blocked.
1. Preparation: What You Need
Before starting the verification form, gather the following details. Entering "N/A" or using incomplete details will result in immediate rejection.
Legal Business Name: Must match your official government tax filings exactly.
Business Registration Number (BRN):
US: Your 9-digit EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Canada: Your CRA Business Number.
Other: Official local government registration (e.g., VAT, CRN, ABN).
Website URL: A live, public site displaying your legal business name.
Proof of Consent URL: A publicly accessible link (e.g., hosted PDF, Google Drive image, or web page) showing exactly how users opt in.
Compliance Policy URLs: Direct links to your official Privacy Policy and SMS Terms of Service.
2. Understanding Opt-In Requirements
Carriers require proof that you have express prior consent to message your contacts. You must provide a publicly accessible link showing your opt-in workflow: Provide a publicly accessible URL (hosted on your site or an image host) for one of these:
Web Form: A screenshot of your web sign-up form. The SMS agreement box must not be pre-checked.. Learn More
Mobile Keyword (e.g., Text BCCB to 24251): An image of the flyer, poster, or digital banner displaying the short code/number, keyword, and complete compliance footer.).Learn More
Paper Form: A scanned copy of a physical sign-up sheet showing explicit SMS consent language. Learn More
Verbal / IVR Script: A written script detailing the consent request, message frequency, and STOP instructions.
QR Code: An image of the QR code that opens a web form or pre-composed text. Learn More
Critical Rule for Graphic Proof: If submitting a flyer or poster image as proof, all text must be 100% legible and free of typos or artificial artifacts. Carrier reviewers will instantly reject proof images containing garbled text or missing compliance language.
3. Step-by-Step Compliance Checklist
To pass manual carrier review on your first attempt, your campaign details must meet these strict criteria:
Sample Messages
Every template (including payment or meeting reminders) must include your brand identification and explicit opt-out instructions.
Example:
City Housing Commission: Good morning {{first_name}}, your recertification meeting is scheduled today at 1:00 PM. Reply STOP to opt out.
Opt-In & HELP Responses
Automated keyword replies must include specific compliance keywords:
Opt-In Confirmation: Must contain Brand Name, Welcome message, Msg & Data rates disclaimer, HELP instructions, and STOP instructions.
HELP Response: Must contain Brand Name, Support Phone Number, Support Email, and Privacy link.
Third-Party Platforms & Software Bridge
If you are using a third-party software provider (e.g., CallingPost) to manage messaging while operating under your own business name, use the Additional Information field to explain the bridge:
State clearly: "Messaging operations and keyword routing are powered by [Software Provider] on behalf of [Legal Business Name]." This prevents rejection due to perceived brand/URL mismatch.
4. Application Status Tracking
Status | Meaning | Required Action |
Pending | Under manual review by carrier registry filters. | None. Review takes 12–72 hours. |
Rejected | Data missing, text truncated, or proof insufficient. | Fix errors and resubmit within your 6-day window. |
Verified | Approved by carriers. | Ready to send text messages! |
Pro-Tips for Fast Approval
Avoid Truncated Text: Always review your entry fields before hitting submit to ensure text hasn't been cut off mid-sentence.
Match Everything: Ensure your Website, EIN, and Legal Business Name reflect the same operating entity.
Be Specific on Use Case: Avoid generic terms like "Marketing". Use descriptive explanations like: "Sending non-marketing, transactional maintenance updates, rent notifications, and annual recertification reminders to registered residents."
Sole Proprietors: If operating without an EIN, select Sole Proprietor. Note that manual vetting for individual profiles takes longer.Custom Toll-Free Verification: The Complete Guide