SMS Consent

How clients opt in to receive text messages from a Business.

How consent is collected

Clients opt in to receive text messages from a Business in one of three ways:

By texting the keyword JOIN. Each Business has an opt-in page at /legal/sms-consent/[business] showing its phone number; texting JOIN to that number subscribes the client to recurring SMS updates.
By texting the Business first. When a client sends a text message to a Business's published phone number, they initiate a conversation and consent to receive reply messages related to their inquiry.
By verbal consent during a phone call. When a client calls a Business, the receptionist collects the client's phone number and asks for permission to send text messages, using the following script:

"Would it be okay if [Business Name] sends you text messages at this number — for example to confirm appointments or follow up on your questions? Message frequency varies, message and data rates may apply, you can reply HELP for help, and you can reply STOP at any time to unsubscribe."

Text messages are only sent if the caller answers yes. Here is a representative example of the verbal opt-in experience:

Example screenshot of the receptionist call flow collecting verbal SMS consent, followed by the confirmation text message the caller receives.

Program details

Program: a Business sends appointment scheduling messages, appointment reminders, and replies to client questions.
Consent is optional and is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services.
Message frequency varies.
Message and data rates may apply.
Reply STOP at any time to unsubscribe. Reply HELP for help.
Phone numbers and SMS opt-in consent are never shared with or sold to third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes.

Example confirmation message

"[Business Name]: You're now subscribed to recurring SMS updates. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to cancel."