What Is an SMS Opt-In and Why It’s Required

An SMS opt-in means a customer has explicitly agreed to receive text messages from your business. Network carriers and regulators require documented consent before any opt-in text message can be sent, including review requests.

Without a valid SMS opt in, carriers may block your messages or reject your number during verification. This applies to all businesses sending SMS in the US and Canada.

If you don’t want to send SMS messages, you can still use TrueReview with email-only review requests. SMS opt in is only required if you plan to text customers.

How SMS Opt-In Verification Works in TrueReview

To send opt-in text messages through TrueReview, your business must complete carrier verification. The process is straightforward:

1. Start Verification
   Go to your Contacts page in the TrueReview dashboard and start the SMS verification process.
2. Submit Business Information
   Provide your legal business name and address. If you don’t have a storefront, use the address associated with your business registration.
3. Show Your SMS Opt-In Method
   You must demonstrate how customers opt in to text messages. This could be a website form, contract language, or another documented SMS opt in method.
4. Carrier Review
   Once submitted, your information is reviewed and sent to carriers. Approval typically takes up to 7 days.

While verification is in progress, TrueReview assigns a temporary number so you can begin sending opt-in text messages right away.

Common Reasons SMS Opt-In Verification Is Rejected

Carrier verification may fail if:

• Your website or privacy policy suggests customer data is sold or shared
• Your website is offline or not secured with HTTPS
• Your business name doesn’t match public records
• Your SMS opt in language is unclear or bundled with other permissions
• The opt-in text message mentions third-party businesses or multiple use cases

If verification is rejected, TrueReview will notify you with clear steps to fix the issue and resubmit.

Approved SMS Opt-In Examples That Work

You only need one compliant SMS opt-in method. Below are common, carrier-approved options.

1. Website Form Checkbox

Add a checkbox near the phone number field that customers must manually select.

Example opt-in text message language:
“I agree to receive SMS messages from [Business Name].”

The checkbox must be optional and not pre-checked.

2. Dedicated SMS Opt-In Form

Create a form specifically for SMS communication where customers submit their phone number and confirm their SMS opt in with a checkbox.

3. Contract or Service Agreement

Include opt-in text message consent near the phone number field in your contract. Customers must clearly agree to receive SMS messages.

4. Physical or Signed Consent Form

In-person businesses can use a paper form where customers sign to confirm their SMS opt in.

Important note: If you modify sample opt-in text message language too much, carriers may reject it. Keep the wording clear and specific.

SMS Opt-Out Is Required

Every opt-in text message must include a way for customers to stop receiving texts. TrueReview automatically supports standard opt-out keywords, including:

• Stop
• Stopall
• Unsubscribe
• End
• Cancel
• Quit

This ensures compliance and protects your deliverability.

Final Thoughts on SMS Opt-In Compliance

A clear SMS opt-in process protects your business, improves deliverability, and builds trust with customers. Setting up a compliant opt-in text message flow is required for carrier verification and long-term SMS success.

If you need help setting up an approved SMS opt in method, the TrueReview team can review your setup and guide you through verification.

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