SMS Messaging Compliance Guide

Effective Date: June 17, 2026

Important: Businesses using SMS features are responsible for obtaining and documenting valid consent from customers before sending text messages.

Who Must Give Consent?

The customer receiving text messages must agree to receive them. A business owner’s agreement to use this application does not substitute for customer consent.

Consent should be tied to the specific business sending the messages. For example, consent to receive repair-status texts from ABC Auto Repair does not automatically apply to another business.

When to Request Consent

Ask for consent when the customer provides a mobile phone number, such as during appointment scheduling, service intake, account registration, or at the counter.

SMS consent should be optional. A customer should be able to receive normal service even if they decline text messages.

Recommended Customer Opt-In Language

A business may use wording similar to the following on its website, intake form, or customer agreement:

[ ] I agree to receive SMS updates from ABC Auto Repair about my vehicle service, including appointment reminders, repair-status updates, and pickup notices. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help.

The checkbox should be unchecked by default. The customer should actively choose to check it.

Verbal Consent

A business may also obtain consent verbally, such as during in-person intake or a phone call. The employee should clearly explain what messages the customer may receive and record the customer’s response.

“Would you like to receive text updates from ABC Auto Repair about your vehicle service, including repair status and pickup notices? Message frequency varies and message and data rates may apply. You can reply STOP at any time to stop messages or HELP for help.”

Keep a Record of Consent

Businesses should keep a record showing the customer’s mobile phone number, the date and time consent was received, the consent method, and the message purpose.

Opt-Out and Help Requests

Customers must be able to stop messages. If a customer replies STOP, do not send additional SMS messages unless the customer later opts in again.

Customers may reply HELP for assistance. Businesses should provide a reasonable way for customers to obtain support.

Do Not Send These Messages Without Proper Consent

Business Responsibility

Each business using SMS features is responsible for following applicable laws, carrier rules, and messaging requirements. This guide provides general information and does not replace legal advice.

Related Pages

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions

Contact

Questions about this guide may be sent to:

Email: kenjtelc@kenjtel.com