Mobile carriers now require all businesses to be registered to send text messages through apps like Follow Up Boss. As part of the registration process, carriers want to see how you're collecting people's contact information, whether they are opting in to be contacted by your business, and providing instructions on how they can opt out if they no longer want to be contacted. They do this by having a third-party reviewer go to your website and confirm that the primary Contact Us form includes clear opt-in/opt-out language.
Note: BoomTown, CINC, RealGeeks, Sierra Interactive, Realty One, RealScout, and Ylopo web forms already meet the requirements for opt-in consent.
Who Requires Opt-In Consent?
Opt-in requirements come from the carriers and third parties who approve text campaigns for businesses to send texts to consumers. This requirement is not from Follow Up Boss.
What do I need to do?
To approve your business registration, the primary Contact Us form must have clear opt-in language that includes:
- A clear statement like "I agree to be contacted by..."
- Instructions on how to opt out and receive help (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Reply HELP for assistance.")
- A link to your Privacy Policy
- Who will be sending the messages (e.g., "ABC Realty Inc.")
- A note that data rates may apply (e.g., "Msg/data rates may apply.")
- How often messages will be sent (e.g., "Message frequency varies.")
- A few words identifying the purpose for these communications (e.g., "for real estate services")
- An optional phone number field on your contact form (no check box). OR, a required phone number field with an optional check box.
- The key here is that no matter what, a site visitor is not required to agree to SMS opt-in in order to submit the contact form.
Example
Here is an example of approved opt-in language:
"I agree to be contacted by [Business Name] via call, email, and text for real estate services. To opt out, you can reply 'stop' at any time or reply 'help' for assistance. You can also click the unsubscribe link in the emails. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. [Link to Privacy Policy]."
⭐️ Tip: Copy the text above and send it to your web developer to add it to the primary Contact Us form on your website.
How do I submit the Business Registration?
The owner or admin users can complete the Business Registration by going to Admin > Business Registration. Follow the steps outlined in How to Register Your Phone Numbers to complete the Business Registration.