Master SMS Opt-In & SMS Opt-Out + How to Get Consent to Receive Text Messages

Getting consent from contacts to receive texts isn’t just a formality. It’s a powerful first step that unlocks higher engagement rates, secures legal compliance, and builds trust.

But without proper opt-in processes, you risk legal issues, lost customer trust, and decreased message deliverability.

So I wrote this article to guide you through:

1. What is SMS opt-in? What does opt mean in texting?
2. Opt-in vs. opt-out + Help (with examples)
3. Why opt-in, opt-out, and consent matters
4. 5 types of SMS opt-ins (with examples)
5. 3 steps to get and maintain compliance with SMS opt-ins
6. 33 SMS opt-in examples + consent to receive text messages template
7. Answers to frequently asked SMS opt-in questions

By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to master opt-in and keep complainant.

Read on for more.

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What is SMS Opt-in? What Does Opt Mean in Texting?

SMS opt-in is a form of consent that allows you to send text messages to an individual’s mobile phone. This consent-based communication method is a best practice and legal requirement for any organization that texts. Collecting and recording opt-ins means you’re protecting your contacts’ privacy. You’re also complying with regulations and maintaining SMS as a trusted communication channel.

Opt-in vs. Opt-out + Help

Opting in gives contacts the choice to receive text messages. But opting out gives them the option to stop receiving texts at any time.

Both mechanisms work together to give people control over their communication preferences.

Opt-In: 

This is the initial agreement. Contacts explicitly give their consent to receive SMS text messages. Opt-in messages include clear language about:

• The nature of the messages
• Expected message frequency
• And information on data rates or charges, if applicable

SMS opt-in text message example:

SUBSCRIBE

Recieved 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Hi {{ FirstName }}! Thanks for joining our text subscriber list. You can expect a text from us every month with the best deals. Text STOP to opt out at any time or text HELP for help. Messaging and data rates may apply.

Delivered 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Opt-Out:

Opt-out allows customers to unsubscribe from SMS messages. They do this by replying with a keyword like “STOP, or “UNSUBSCRIBE”. Having this capability gives contacts the right to stop communications with you whenever they choose.

SMS opt-out text message example:

STOP

Recieved 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Hi {{ FirstName }}, sorry to see you go. You’ve opted out of all text messaging from {{ OrganizaitonName }}. You can opt back into text messages from us at any time by texting SUBSCRIBE. You can also text HELP for help.

Delivered 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Help:

Texting HELP allows contacts to get help and info about the opt in mass texting services they’re subscribed to. When a contact texts "HELP," they receive a text message about how to manage their subscription. This often includes links to customer support or details on opting in or out.

SMS help text message example:

HELP

Recieved 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Hi {{ FirstName }}! You’re subscribed to SMS messages from {{ OrganizationName }}. For assistance, reply STOP to unsubscribe or SUBSCRIBE to rejoin. For more help, contact us at [support email] or [support phone number]. Msg and data rates may apply.

Delivered 01/06/23, 07:01 am

Why opt-in, opt-out, and consent matters

SMS text messages are incredibly effective at engaging people. You can send high volumes of personalized and immediate messages directly to a contact’s mobile device. 

But with great power comes great responsibility. Without proper consent, text messages feel invasive or in some cases, abusive with phishing scams.

This is why carriers now heavily regulate consent through opt-in. They use opt-in requirements per the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and other industry standards to keep texting safe for everyone.

5 key components of an SMS opt-in

So what do you need to do to get opt-in and consent? An effective SMS opt-in includes five essential elements. Each ensures transparency, clarity, and compliance:

1. Business Identification: Make sure contacts know exactly who’s texting them. Clearly state your organization name in the initial opt-in message.
2. Consent Language: Use clear language that outlines what people are agreeing to. Include the types of messages they’ll receive (promotions, reminders, etc.).
3. Frequency and Costs: Mention the estimated frequency of messages (e.g., “up to 4 texts per month”). Also, be sure to inform contacts if message and data rates apply.
4. Opt-out Instructions: Include instructions for how contacts can unsubscribe at any time. This typically means replying with a keyword like “STOP.”
5. Privacy Policy Link: Adding a link to your privacy policy lets contacts know how you use their information. It also assures data protection.

5 Types of SMS Opt-ins

Choosing the right type of opt-in is crucial for getting and maintaining SMS carrier compliance. 

But different types of opt-ins work best for different messaging purposes.

Here’s a breakdown of the five primary types of SMS opt-ins and when to use each with examples:

1. Single SMS opt-in (text-to-join)

A single SMS opt-in is a type of text-to-join campaign that requires your contacts to consent to receive text messages. Contacts can give you consent by:

• Checking a box on a web form
• Filling out an in-store signup sheet
• Or by texting a keyword to your organization 

This approach works well for transactional messages, like appointment reminders or service notifications.

What single SMS opt-in is best for:

Transactional texts, simple notifications, and non-promotional text messages.

How single SMS opt-in works:

Contacts opt-in through a single call to action. They might submit their phone number via a form or text a keyword autoresponder like “JOIN” or “SUBSCRIBE” to your business phone number.

Single SMS opt-in message example:

Text JOIN to {{ OrganizationPhone }} to receive updates on your upcoming appointments. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

2. Double SMS opt-in

Double opt-in gives you an extra layer of confirmation. This makes it best for promotional text message advertising and text message marketing campaigns. 

After a contact initially opts in, they get a second confirmation text. This text asks them to verify their interest by replying “YES” or clicking a link. 

The additional confirmation helps ensure that contacts genuinely want to receive your messages. The added layer of protection can also lead to higher engagement rates.

What double SMS opt-in is best for: 

Promotional campaigns, discounts, flash sales, and marketing messages that require explicit consent.

How double SMS opt-in works:

After the initial opt-in, a follow-up text message confirms interest. The contact must respond or take action to complete the double opt-in process.

Double SMS opt-in message example: 

Thank you for subscribing to {{ OrganizationName }} alerts! Reply YES to confirm your subscription and receive exclusive offers. Msg & data rates may apply.

3. Verbal SMS opt-in

Verbal opt-ins allow contacts to provide consent over the phone or in person. This often gets logged via a call recording or written transcript for verification. 

This type of opt-in is helpful if you interact face-to-face with contacts or regularly take phone orders.

What verbal SMS opt-in is best for: 

Service-based businesses, in-store interactions, or call-center environments where gathering quick verbal consent is convenient.

How it works:

Verbal consent gets confirmed and recorded for compliance purposes. It’s helpful to follow up with a confirmation by text.

Verbal SMS opt-in message example:

After confirming consent verbally, send a message: 

You’ve subscribed to {{ OrganizationName }} text updates! Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Msg & data rates may apply.

4. Website form SMS opt-in

Website form opt-ins are common for online retailers and service providers.

Opt-in checkboxes on checkout pages, pop-up forms, or landing pages make it easy for contacts to opt into SMS updates. Especially when they’re already engaging with your brand online.

What website form SMS opt-in is best for:

E-commerce, online scheduling, lead generation.

How website form SMS opt-in works:

Contacts provide their phone number and check an opt-in box to consent. Ensure that the checkbox is not pre-filled and that the form includes a disclaimer about message frequency, opt-out options, and a link to your privacy policy.

Website form SMS opt-in message example:

By checking this box, you agree to receive text updates from {{ OrganizationName }} Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Link to Privacy Policy [ Link ].

5. QR Code SMS opt-in

QR codes are a tech-friendly way to gather opt-ins. They work well at events, in-store, or even on printed marketing materials. 

When a contact scans the QR code, they get directed to an opt-in page or receive an initial text to confirm their subscription. This method is ideal for capturing real-time interest. It doesn’t require contacts to navigate through multiple opt-in steps manually.

What QR code SMS opt-in is best for:

Events, in-store displays, restaurant menus, and physical marketing materials.

How QR code SMS opt-in works:

Contacts scan a QR code to reach a form or prompt that initiates a text message. It’s best to use double opt-in with QR codes for transparency and verification.

QR code SMS opt-in message example:

Scan to receive exclusive offers! Msg & data rates may apply. You’ll receive a confirmation message to complete your subscription.

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3 Steps to Get and Maintain Compliance with SMS Opt-ins

Achieving and maintaining compliance with SMS opt-ins is essential for any organization that texts. 

Following legal and carrier-specific guidelines not only keeps you protected. It also fosters trust with your audience. Here’s how you can ensure your SMS opt-ins remain fully compliant.

1. Abide by legal requirements

Compliance begins with understanding SMS marketing laws. This includes the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) in the United States. The TCPA requires that you obtain explicit consent before sending promotional texts. 

Additionally, you must make the opt-in process transparent and straightforward. This means keeping a clear record of each customer’s consent.

There’s also an extra layer of compliance for organizations texting with 10DLC SMS phone numbers. 10DLC is the industry standard for business-to-consumer text messaging in the U.S. and Canada. Once approved, you get higher deliverability rates and reduced chances of getting flagged as spam.

However, carriers require registration to text. This involves documenting your business information, campaign type, and intended use of for texting. Carriers use this information to verify the legitimacy of your messages.

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2. Become a “Verified SMS Sender” with opt-in and A2P 10DLC registration 

All telecom carriers in the U.S. now require businesses and organizations that text to complete A2P 10DLC carrier registration. 

They do this for TCPA compliance and to prevent phishing scams and SPAM messaging from bad actors.

The good news is that opt-in mass texting services, like MessageDesk, come with all of the compliance features you need. They can help you manage opt-in, opt-out, compliance, and registration from one platform.

Every service has its way of managing opt-in and carrier registration. But at MessageDesk, we start the carrier registration process by validating the legitimacy of your organization. We do this with a form that collects the following information:

1. Business identification: You need to provide proof of your business's existence and legality. This includes your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or other tax identification numbers.
2. Business address: The official address registered with your organization.
3. Contact Information: A primary contact within the business, including name, phone number, email address, and website.
4. Messaging purpose and examples: Explain why and how your business uses SMS messaging. This involves providing message examples.
5. Opt-in and opt-out processes: Describe how your contacts opt in and out of receiving messages. This includes how you collect consent and how you manage and honor opt-out requests.
6. Message content and volume: Carriers need to know about the volume and content of the messages you’ll send. This helps them understand your messaging patterns. It also ensures that your messages align with TCPA regulations.

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3. Publish a carrier-compliant business text messaging policy on your website and other collateral

You submitted and validated your information. Next, you need to publish a text message privacy policy.

Carriers require that you have a website. They also require that you publish a business text messaging privacy policy for TCPA opt-in compliance.

Your privacy policy must explain the following:

1. The type of contact and personal information your organization collects
2. How your organization collects information from contacts
3. How your organization uses any information collected
4. How your organization protects contact data
5. That your organization doesn’t share information with third parties for marketing and promotional purposes
6. How contacts can opt out of receiving text messages

🚨 Note: having a website with a privacy policy is an absolute must for business text messaging. Without it, carriers won’t approve your organization for texting. 

Here’s an example of language you should include in your privacy policy:

"[ Organization Name ] maintains strict privacy policies, ensuring that personal information of our contacts and members is not shared, sold, rented, released, or traded to third parties without legal obligation."

Additionally, your privacy policy should Include the following:

SMS Opt-Out: If you are receiving text messages from us and wish to stop, respond "STOP" to opt-out of future messaging. Once we receive your message, you will no longer receive additional texts from us."

33 SMS Opt-in Examples + Consent to Receive Text Messages Template

I showed how SMS opt-ins are crucial for obtaining consent. It’s required to send text messages and comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

Here’s a list of different types of SMS opt-in methods with examples. Your text message opt-in language may vary based on your business or organization.:

1. Keyword Text-In Opt-In (Single Opt-In)

Contacts text a specific keyword to subscribe.

Text JOIN to {{ OrganizationPhone }} to receive exclusive offers and updates. By texting JOIN, you agree to receive recurring messages. Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Msg & data rates may apply.

2. Web form opt-In

Contacts complete a web form to opt into SMS. 

3. Point-of-sale (POS) opt-In (double opt-In)

Customers provide their phone number at checkout and receive a confirmation SMS. 

Thanks for subscribing! Reply YES to confirm receiving sales updates from us. Msg & data rates apply.

4. Mobile app opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts opt into SMS notifications through the app. 

5. Paper form opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts complete a paper form to opt in and receive a follow-up confirmation text. 

Thanks for joining! Reply YES to confirm SMS alerts from us. Msg & data rates may apply.

6. Email opt-in with SMS option (double opt-in)

Email signup includes an optional SMS checkbox, followed by a confirmation text. 

7. QR code opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts scan a QR code that directs to a consent page or initiates a confirmation text. 

‍

8. Social media opt-in (double opt-in)

Social media ads direct contacts to an SMS opt-in page where they confirm by replying. 

Sign up for SMS alerts from our page! After entering your info, reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply.

9. Voice call opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts agree verbally and receive a confirmation SMS for double opt-in. 

You’ve requested SMS updates. Reply YES to confirm and receive messages. Msg & data rates apply.

10. Double opt-In for SMS marketing

After an initial opt-in, contacts receive a follow-up SMS to confirm their subscription.

Thank you for joining our SMS list! Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

11. Kiosk opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts enter their phone number at a kiosk and receive a confirmation text. 

Thanks for joining our SMS list! Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply.

12. Contest or Sweepstakes Opt-In

Contacts enter a contest and agree to SMS marketing with a confirmation text.

Thanks for entering! Reply YES to receive promo texts from us. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

13. Club or membership opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts join a loyalty program and confirm SMS consent via reply.

Welcome to our club! Reply YES to confirm SMS alerts from us. Msg & data rates may apply.

14. Event registration opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts opt-in during event registration and receive a confirmation text.

You’ve signed up for SMS event reminders. Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

15. In-store signage opt-in (double opt-in)

In-store signage invites contacts to opt-in via text with confirmation required. 

Text DEALS to {{ OrganizationPhone }}  to get offers. By texting DEALS, you agree to receive recurring messages. Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Msg & data rates may apply.

16. Wi-Fi access opt-in

Contacts agree to receive SMS in exchange for Wi-Fi with opt-out info included. 

Thanks for connecting! Receive SMS updates from us by replying YES. Msg & data rates apply.

17. Bill payment opt-In

Contacts select SMS updates while paying a bill with opt-out instructions.

Get bill reminders via SMS. Reply YES to confirm and STOP to unsubscribe. Msg & data rates may apply.

18. Customer service interaction opt-in

Verbal opt-in for transactional messages is followed by an SMS with opt-out instructions. 

Thank you! You’ll receive SMS updates about your service. Reply STOP anytime to unsubscribe.

19. Affiliate or partner opt-in (double opt-in)

Partners prompt contacts to opt in, and they receive a confirmation text from your business. 

Welcome! Reply YES to confirm SMS updates from [Your Brand]. Msg & data rates apply.

20. Location-based opt-In (double opt-in)

Location-based prompts invite contacts to opt-in with double opt-in confirmation. 

Welcome to [Location]! Reply YES to get deals via SMS. Msg & data rates may apply.

21. Interactive voice response (IVR) opt-in (double opt-in)

Contacts consent through an automated phone system and confirm via SMS. 

Press 1 to receive SMS updates. Then reply YES to confirm your subscription. Msg & data rates may apply.

22. Subscription service opt-In

Contacts opt in for regular SMS content, such as news or tips. 

Subscribe to daily health tips! Text HEALTH to {{ OrganizationPhone }} and reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply.

23. Event-based trigger opt-In

Contacts opt in for SMS updates at specific points, such as after a purchase. 

Thank you for your purchase! Reply YES to confirm SMS updates on your order. Msg & data rates apply.

24. Customer feedback opt-In (double opt-in)

After a survey or feedback, contacts can opt in for further SMS updates.

Thank you for your feedback! Reply YES to get a coupon and future updates. Msg & data rates may apply.

25. Time-sensitive offer opt-in

Contacts sign up for limited-time offers via SMS with confirmation. 

Want flash sale alerts? Reply YES to confirm SMS updates for deals. Msg & data rates apply.

26. Transactional opt-In (Single opt-in)

Contacts opt in to receive transaction-related SMS alerts, such as payment confirmations. 

Get payment alerts by texting BILL to {{ OrganizationPhone }}. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

27. Embedded opt-in links (double opt-in)

Contacts click a link in digital content to opt in, confirmed by a follow-up text. 

Thank you for signing up via email! Reply YES to receive SMS updates. Msg & data rates may apply.

28. Smartwatch or wearable device opt-In

Contacts opt-in through a smartwatch app, with clear opt-out instructions. 

Enable SMS reminders for workouts? Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP anytime.

29. Chatbot opt-in (double opt-in)

Contacts opt in through a chatbot interaction, confirmed with a follow-up SMS. 

30. Abandoned cart opt-in (double opt-in)

Contacts opt in to receive reminders about items left in their online shopping cart.

Items still in your cart! Reply YES to get SMS reminders and offers. Msg & data rates apply.

31. Service activation opt-in (double opt-in)

Contacts opt in for SMS updates during service activation. 

Activate SMS alerts for your account? Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply.

32. Educational content opt-In (double opt-in)

Contacts sign up for SMS educational tips.

Join our SMS learning series! Reply YES to confirm. Msg & data rates may apply.

33. Birthday club opt-In

Contacts provide their phone number and birth date to receive birthday offers. 

Join our Birthday Club! Text BIRTHDAY to {{ OrganizationPhone }}

Consent to Receive Text Messages Template

Consent to Receive Text Messages

By providing your mobile phone number below, you consent to receive SMS text messages from {{ OrganizationName }}. These messages may include updates, promotional offers, service alerts, and reminders related to {{ services or topics, e.g., "our latest products and special offers" }}. Message frequency may vary.

• Message and Data Rates: Standard message and data rates may apply.
• Opt-Out: You may opt out of receiving these messages at any time by replying "STOP" to any SMS message you receive from us. For assistance, reply "HELP" or contact us directly at [support email] or [support phone number].
• Privacy Policy: Please review our [Privacy Policy](link to privacy policy) for how we handle your data.

Your consent is not a condition of purchase. By selecting “I agree” and providing your mobile phone number, you confirm you understand and accept these terms and conditions.

Checkbox: ☐ I agree to receive text messages from {{ OrganizationName }} and understand that message and data rates may apply.

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Answers to Frequently Asked SMS Opt-in Questions

Below are answers to frequently asked questions related to SMS opt-in and opt-out best practices.

Why is SMS opt-in necessary?

Carriers require opt-in for SMS compliance with the TCPA. The TCPA mandates that you get clear consent before sending promotional or transactional text messages. It helps protect contacts' privacy and maintains a positive brand relationship​.

What does "opt" mean in text messaging?

In text messaging, "opt" refers to a contact's choice to either opt-in or opt-out of receiving SMS messages:

• Opt-In: When a person actively agrees to receive text messages by subscribing to a messaging service. This requires explicit consent, meaning the person signs up willingly. They often do this by texting a keyword, filling out a web form, or another method that records their permission.
• Opt-Out: This is when a person unsubscribes from receiving further messages. Typically they do this by replying with a specific keyword, like "STOP." This action ensures they won’t receive any more messages unless they decide to opt-in again.

What text opt in laws should I be aware of?

The primary regulations are the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and guidelines from the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA). 

These laws ensure consumers don’t receive unsolicited or misleading SMS messages. Both regulations include requirements for opt-in, opt-out, and message transparency.

What happens if you don’t comply with SMS opt-in requirements?

Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, legal action, and blacklisted phone numbers. The TCPA allows consumers to file lawsuits if they receive unsolicited texts, and fines for violations can be substantial​.

If contacts don’t opt-in, you also risk getting reported as spam by your contact to your provider. If that happens regularly, the carrier network may blacklist your business phone number, preventing you from texting.

Additionally, you can’t use alternative phone numbers as a workaround. Carriers consider this “snowshoeing”. One blacklisted number associated with your brand can ruin your reputation for all other phone numbers, present or future.

Is it legal to use SMS opt-in lists from third parties?

You can’t collect consent for or from any third party. You can only collect consent for your brand. 

Additionally, you must ensure that third-party lists meet SMS compliance standards. This includes having 100% valid opt-ins. 

Contacts must agree to receive messages from your specific organization, not just a partner organization.

Can I use my existing email list as my SMS subscriber list?

No, you can’t automatically use your existing email marketing list as an SMS subscriber list. SMS messaging requires explicit consent separate from email. This means your contacts must specifically agree to receive text messages from you. 

Regulations like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) also mandate that you obtain distinct consent for SMS communication. This is required even if the individuals are already on your email list.

What information do I need to include in an SMS opt-in message?

An SMS opt-in message discloses:

• The purpose of the messages
• Messaging frequency
• Reminders about message and data rates
• And clear ways to opt-out (usually by replying "STOP")​

How do contacts opt back in to text messages?

Contacts may opt back in by responding with a designated keyword (e.g., “JOIN”). They can also sign up through a web form or another opt-in method provided by your organization.

Is double opt-in required for SMS marketing campaigns?

Double opt-in isn’t always required. However, I recommend a double opt-in for added SMS compliance and security with text message marketing. Double opt-ins ensure the contact explicitly consents to receive texts.

How should you handle opt-out requests?

Every business and organization must honor opt-out requests immediately and ensure that contacts don’t receive further messages. I recommend sending a confirmation message acknowledging an opt-out as a best practice​.

How often should contacts get reminders regarding opt-out?

Best practice suggests including opt-out instructions (e.g., “Reply STOP to unsubscribe”) in every SMS message. This makes it easy for contacts to manage their subscription preferences.

Are there specific words or phrases to avoid in SMS marketing messages?

You should avoid SHAFT content (Sex, Hate, Alcohol, Firearms, and Tobacco). Additionally, don’t use potentially misleading or triggering language. This will prevent carriers from flagging your messages and filtering them as spam.

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Ready for a smarter, simpler TCPA-compliant texting service?

I’ve covered SMS opt-in compliance. It’s more than possible to maintain compliance with text messages. This is especially true if you text using a business texting service like MessageDesk.

Ready to start texting? Your next step is to meet with a MessageDesk messaging expert. 

MessageDesk is here to help you configure your business phone number. We make carrier registration simple, easy, and transparent.