Here is an overview of different opt-in text messaging methods you might use to obtain their express written consent. You can use one or all of these methods in your business.

Across all opt-in methods be sure to include the essential elements list below, such as a clear and compliant call to action.

Text to Join

Opt-In SMS Keywords

As you’re planning your texting campaign, it’s a good idea to create keywords. BellesLink has two default opt-in keywords, SUBSCRIBE and OPTIN. You can also create your own.

A keyword is a word or phrase that people can text to your number in order to opt-in for text messages. If someone texts in a keyword, this counts as express consent as long as the advertisement contains the required opt-in terms.

Part of your responsibility when using keywords is to advertise them properly. To ensure your advertisements are TCPA compliant, they must clearly and conspicuously disclose that a) the messages to be received will be marketing/promotional in nature, b) the messages will be sent via an autodialer and c) the agreement to receive the autodialed promotional text messages isn’t a condition of any purchase.

Additionally, in order to also comply with the CTIA’s guidelines, your advertisements must include your campaign purpose, message frequency, info about message and data rates, plus a link to your terms and conditions and privacy policy. Below is an example of compliant call-to-action.

To finalize the opt-in process, the best practices require that new contacts must get an immediate reply that includes: your business name and STOP instructions. BellesLink automatically sends this confirmation message for you.

Essential Elements for this Opt-in Method

  • Your opt-in Keyword
  • Your text-enable toll-free number
  • Your call to action
    • Example: By texting [YOUR KEYWORD] you agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. This agreement is not a condition for purchase. You may receive up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Online Form

Another straightforward way to gain subscribers is with a web form. Website platforms such as WordPress have online form tools to create a text opt-in form. Or you can add an opt-in to an existing online contact form.

If you decide to add a phone number field to an existing form, a) make sure the text message opt-in language is TCPA compliant and b) be sure to have a box that users must check to opt-in for messages. This checkbox cannot be pre-checked.

Essential Elements for this Method Opt-in Method

  • Opt-in checkbox. Must be unchecked.
  • Your call to action
    • Example: I agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. Up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Point Of Sale

Like the online method, a customer who opts-in at the point of sale may be doing so in an online shopping cart. Make sure your points of sale includes TCPA compliant language that includes the purpose of the messages, info about message and data rates, plus a link to your terms and conditions and privacy policy.

Essential Elements for this Method Opt-in Method

  • Opt-in checkbox. Must be unchecked. May be required for purchase.
  • Your call to action
    • Example: You agree to receive notification messages by SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply.

Paper Forms

We get it. Some people like to keep it old school. You can absolutely use a paper form to collect phone numbers and get express consent. Just like with a web form, your paper form should at the very least have a checkbox that people need to tick off to sign up for messages; however, a written signature or even space to initial would be preferred.

Never send a message to someone who hasn’t given express consent to be messaged via signature, initial, or clearly checked box, and always store your completed forms in a safe place for reference.

Essential Elements for this Method Opt-in Method

  • Opt-in checkbox. Must be unchecked.
  • Your call to action
    • Example: You agree to receive promotional messages by SMS. You may receive up to [X] msgs per month. Msg and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages. Privacy Policy[your link] and Terms & Conditions[your link] apply

Summary

Opt-in text messaging is the process of a customer giving their express written consent to a business for the purpose of receiving autodialed promotional messages which, in turn, makes them subscribers of your text marketing platform.

People can opt-in to your messages using keywords, web forms, at the point of purchase, or even paper forms.

 

Texting Guides

Checkout our tutorials and guides on business text messaging, registration requirements, and toll-free number verification.

 

Additional policies, regulations, and laws may exist beyond those listed here. This is not legal advice. It is strongly recommended you consult your own legal advisor for help understanding legal obligations you may have, given the kind of messaging you wish to send.