Toll-Free Number Verification Guide for US and Canada SMS
What Is Toll-Free Number Verification?
Toll-free numbers (such as those beginning with 800, 888, or 877) are widely used by businesses for messaging. Verification is a mandatory process where you register your toll-free number and intended messaging use case with telecommunications carriers. This confirms your legitimacy as a sender, helps prevent spam, and ensures reliable message delivery.
Starting November 8, 2023, unverified toll-free numbers used for texting in the US and Canada may be filtered or blocked. As of January 31, 2024, messages sent from toll-free numbers with pending verification will be blocked and may incur messaging fees. Blocked messages typically return error codes such as 30032 or 30007. Note that verification applies only to messaging and does not affect voice calling.
Key Benefits of Verification
- Higher message deliverability rates
- Compliance with carrier regulations
- Reduced risk of filtering or blocking
- Enhanced customer trust and brand reputation
Requirements Before You Begin
Before submitting your verification request, gather the following information:
- Legal business name
- Business website or public social media link
- Business address
- Detailed description of your messaging use case
- At least two sample message templates
- Description of your opt-in method for recipient consent
Steps to Verify a Toll-Free Number
Step 1: Acquire a Toll-Free Number
If you do not already have one, purchase a toll-free number through your CRM's phone system.
Step 2: Submit the Verification Form
Navigate to Settings > Phone Numbers > Manage Numbers from your sub-account. Under the Manage Numbers tab, click the Verification Required alert next to your toll-free number.
Step 3: Add Business and Contact Information
As of May 2025, an EIN or business registration number is no longer required for SMS verification. Provide the following:
- Legal Entity Name: The official name of the end business that customers interact with. Do not list an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) unless the ISV creates all content, sends messages under its own brand, and operates on its own behalf.
- Website URL: The website or public social media page of the business. Social media links are acceptable if the business lacks a formal website, but the page must be public and live. URLs that are password-protected, private, or feature ISV branding will be rejected.
- Contact Details: First name, last name, email, country code, and phone number for a customer point of contact.
- Business Location: The physical address of the end business, including country, state, city, street address, and postal code.
Click Continue to Messaging Use Case to proceed.
Step 4: Add Messaging Use Case Details
Select your estimated monthly message volume from the provided list. Then, choose your opt-in method from the available options.
Opt-In Methods
Verbal Opt-In
This occurs during a phone call or through an IVR system. For example, an automated message might say: "We can send you monthly text alerts about account activity. Message and data rates may apply. Reply HELP for assistance or STOP to unsubscribe. Terms are available at [URL]. Reply 'yes' to confirm." The customer then responds affirmatively.
Web Form Opt-In
An embedded form on your website prompts users to enter their mobile number and opt into texting. Important requirements:
- The opt-in checkbox must be selectable by the user and cannot be pre-selected.
- The checkbox cannot be mandatory for form submission.
- Include a consent disclaimer such as: "I consent to receive SMS notifications from [Company Name]. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP to [number] for help or STOP to unsubscribe."
Monitor Verification Status
After submission, you can check the status of your verification request in the same section where you initiated the process. Allow time for carrier review, and address any rejection notices promptly to avoid messaging interruptions.