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Custom Number Validation: What You Need to Know

Why is validation required?

Support Team avatar
Written by Support Team
Updated over 2 weeks ago

As of January 31, 2024, a new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule requires all custom toll-free numbers to be verified before sending any text messages. This is an industry-wide change, not specific to our platform.

As of February 17, 2026, the verification process is more rigorous. Here is a checklist of the specific documents and details you should have ready based on your business structure.


๐Ÿ“‹ Pre-Verification Checklist (by Business Type)

Business Type

Required Registration (BRN)

Supporting Documentation Needed

LLC / Corporation

EIN (9-digit)

IRS CP 575 or 147C Letter. The name on your form must match this letter exactly.

Sole Proprietor

SSN (or EIN if you have one)

Driverโ€™s License and a Business License or Schedule C (Tax Form) showing your name and business address.

Non-Profit

EIN

501(c)(3) Letter and a link to your status on a registry like GuideStar or Charity Navigator.

International

VAT / CRN / ABN

Official Certificate of Incorporation (must be in English or have a certified translation).


๐Ÿ’ก 4 Tips to Guarantee First-Time Approval

1. The "Golden Rule" of Names

Reviewers check your Legal Business Name against the BRN database. If your tax letter says "Smith & Sons, LLC" but you type "Smith and Sons" on the form, it may be rejected. Use the exact punctuation and spacing found on your IRS documents.

2. The Website "Must-Haves"

Reviewers will visit your website. It must include:

  • Branding: Your business name/logo must be visible.

  • Privacy Policy: A link in the footer is standard. It must explicitly state: "No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes."

  • Active Status: "Coming Soon" pages or password-protected sites are the #1 cause of rejection.

3. Capturing the Opt-In

When you provide the URL of Opt-In Policy Images, the image must show:

  • The checkbox (it cannot be pre-checked).

  • The specific "Consent Language" (e.g., "By checking this box, I agree to receive recurring messages...").

  • The "STOP" and "HELP" instructions.

4. Matching the "Production Sample"

Your sample message must contain your Brand Name.

  • โœ… Approved: "Hi from [Brand Name]! Your appointment is confirmed for 2 PM. Reply STOP to opt out."

  • โŒ Rejected: "Your appointment is confirmed for 2 PM." (Missing brand and opt-out instructions).

What happens if I don't validate?

Unverified custom numbers can only be used for outbound caller ID. You will not be able to send text messages with an unverified number.

How do I validate?

Where can I use my validated number?

  • Caller ID: Validated numbers can be selected in the caller ID dropdown menu under System Settings > Communication Settings.

  • Text Messaging: Validated numbers will also appear in the dropdown menu for text messaging.

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