All tips
-
Starting Nov. 25, 2026, a caller can name one exclusive way to opt out of robocalls and texts: a key press on a call, words like STOP in a text reply, or a website or phone number it provides. It must say so clearly in the call or text. Otherwise, any reasonable method must be honored.
-
If your texting tool can't receive replies, say so. The FCC rule says each text must clearly disclose that two-way texting isn't available and give other reasonable ways to opt out. Check this before launching a campaign on a one-way platform.
-
Say who is calling. For telemarketing calls, the FCC rule calls for the caller's name, the business the call is made for, and a phone number or address where that business can be reached. Check that your call scripts and recorded messages include all three.
-
Keep your own do-not-call list, separate from the national registry. FCC rules say to record a do-not-call request when it is made and to honor it for 5 years. A request applies to your business and to affiliates the person would reasonably expect to be included.
-
Scrub call lists against the National Do Not Call Registry at least every 31 days. The FCC rule only excuses an accidental call if the caller shows it was an error and had written procedures, trained staff, an internal list, a registry copy under 31 days old, and records.
-
Opt-outs have a deadline. FCC rules say revocation and do-not-call requests must be honored within a reasonable time, not more than ten business days. If a vendor keeps your opt-out list, the rule puts liability on the business the calls are for. Test how fast opt-outs reach every list.
-
Catch all seven opt-out words. Under FCC rules, a text reply of stop, quit, end, revoke, opt out, cancel or unsubscribe counts as a revocation of consent. Make sure your texting tool reads all seven, and decide who reviews replies that use other wording.
-
Consent has to name the number. The FCC's definition of written consent includes "the telephone number to which the signatory authorizes" messages to be delivered. Many companies keep the phone field and the consent wording together on one form so the number and the agreement stay linked.
-
A checkbox alone isn't enough. The FCC's definition of written consent calls for a clear and conspicuous disclosure that signing authorizes automated or prerecorded marketing messages, and that signing isn't required to buy anything. Read your form and check that both statements are there.
-
Watch the clock on the other end. FCC rules bar telemarketing calls to residential subscribers before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. at the recipient's location, and the rule extends to marketing texts to wireless numbers. If your list spans time zones, schedule sends by each person's local time.
General information, not legal advice.
Disclaimer: TCPA Today is an independent news and educational resource powered by ExpressConsent. These tips are general information and are not legal advice. Allegations in legal proceedings are not findings of wrongdoing unless established by a court.