Making Text Messaging Work for Your Business 

Text messaging is one of the fastest and most effective ways to connect with customers. Whether you are sending appointment reminders, account updates, or promotional offers, text messaging keeps communication direct and convenient. However, due to regulations designed to protect consumers from spam, businesses must go through an approval process before they can start texting. While the process may seem complicated, it is actually straightforward when you understand the steps. This guide will walk you through how to get approved for text messaging through Tresta so you can start using this powerful communication tool. 

Why Text Messaging Approval Is Necessary 

Business text messaging is regulated by the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA). These regulations are in place to prevent spam, fraud, and unwanted messages. Additionally, The Campaign Registry (TCR) works with wireless carriers to verify business messaging traffic and ensure compliance. 

If your business does not follow the required regulatory approval process, as determined by the TCPA, CTIA, and TCR, messages may be blocked or undelivered. Non-compliance can also result in significant fines. Fortunately, by completing the registration steps correctly, you can avoid these issues and ensure your messages reach your audience. 

How to Get Approved for Business Text Messaging through Tresta 

Tresta has a simple process to help businesses get approved for text messaging. Keep in mind that text messaging is not available during the free trial period. Additionally, activating text messaging on local numbers may involve an additional charge based on your business type. 

Step 1: Submit Your Business Information 

Before you can send texts, you must verify your business. This step helps wireless carriers confirm that you are a legitimate company using text messaging responsibly. You will need to provide: 

  • Your business name and the state where you operate 
  • Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) 
  • A valid business website (or social media page for verification) 
  • Your contact information, including a business email and phone number 

Sole proprietors are currently not eligible for text messaging due to industry-wide restrictions. These restrictions were put in place due to increased spam complaints, low messaging frequency, and lack of verifiable tax records. If this changes, Tresta will provide updates. If you find yourself in this category, toll-free messaging may be a better fit until regulations allow Sole Proprietors to text message on local numbers again. 

Step 2: Define Your Messaging Campaign 

Businesses must register their text messaging campaigns to specify how they will use text messaging. You will need to describe: 

  • Who you are 
  • Who you will be texting 
  • Why you are texting them 

Your campaign type will also need to be classified into one of the following categories: 

Conversational 

Two-way communication where the customer starts the conversation (e.g., customer care, support). 

Informational 

One-way updates such as appointment reminders or notifications (e.g., healthcare alerts, account notifications, security alerts). 

Promotional 

Marketing messages that require explicit written consent (e.g., sales promotions, surveys, contests, loyalty program updates). 

Providing accurate details will help avoid delays or rejections during the approval process. 

Consent is a key requirement for business text messaging. Customers must agree to receive messages before you send them. There are several ways to collect consent: 

Web Forms 

Customers opt in by providing their phone number online. 

Text-to-Join 

Customers text a keyword to opt in. 

Verbal or Written Agreement 

Customers agree to receive messages when speaking with a representative or signing a document. 

Checkout Process 

Customers provide their number at checkout and agree to receive messages. 

Opt-in messages must include clear disclosures, including message frequency, opt-out instructions, and a link to your terms and privacy policy. 

Required Opt-in Message Disclosures: 

  • Business name and purpose of the messaging 
  • Clarification that messages are automated and promotional 
  • Statement that consent is not a condition of purchase 
  • Expected message frequency 
  • Instructions on how to opt out 
  • Help instructions 
  • Notification that message and data rates may apply 
  • Links to terms and privacy policies 
Sample Opt-in Message Example: 

“You agree to receive automated promotional messages from [Business Name]. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Message frequency varies. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Message & data rates apply. See [business website] for more details.” 

Step 4: Submit Your Messaging Compliance Form 

Once your business and campaign details are set, you must complete Tresta’s Messaging Compliance Form which is sent to The Campaign Registry for approval. This step ensures your messaging aligns with industry regulations and includes: 

  • A clear explanation of your texting use case. 
  • At least four sample messages, one including opt-out instructions. 
  • Compliance with TCPA, CTIA, and TCR requirements. 

After submission, approval can take up to 14 days, depending on accuracy and review times. 

What Happens After Approval? 

Once approved, you can start sending messages to your customers. To maintain compliance, always: 

  • Ensure customers can easily opt out. 
  • Only send messages to those who have opted in. 
  • Avoid prohibited content such as financial scams, cannabis-related messages, or misleading promotions. 

Prohibited Content Categories: 

Some types of content are strictly prohibited by carriers and industry regulations. These include: 

SHAFT 

Sex, hate, alcohol, firearms, and tobacco-related messaging. 

Financial Scams 

Fraudulent loan offers, get-rich-quick schemes, and credit repair services. 

Cannabis/CBD 

Messaging related to marijuana, even in legal states. 

Unsolicited Marketing 

Any campaign that sends messages without explicit consent. 

Violations and Audits 

Failure to follow regulations can lead to: 

  • TCPA fines and legal action 
  • CTIA audits that may suspend messaging services 
  • Shutdown of messaging numbers for non-compliance 

Fees for Activation and Additional Charges 

There are activation fees and potential additional charges for text messaging, depending on the business type. If you are texting from multiple numbers or need to reactivate a closed account, additional fees may apply. Tresta can provide up-to-date details on any costs involved. 

Tresta Customer Service Is Here to Help 

Navigating text messaging compliance can feel overwhelming, but Tresta is here to support you. Our customer service team is happy to answer your questions, help you through the approval process, and get you started with text messaging once your free trial ends. Feel free to contact us Monday – Friday from 8am – 8pm ET.

Final Thoughts 

Text messaging is a powerful tool for business communication, but it comes with responsibilities. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure compliance and enjoy the benefits of fast, reliable customer engagement. Tresta is here to help you navigate the process so you can focus on what matters most—connecting with your customers.