Overview
To use text messaging, your website must include both a Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.
These are standard website pages that explain how visitor information is collected and used, and help protect your business. They are also required for texting number approval.
If your website does not include these pages, your account cannot be approved for a texting number.
Requirements
Your website must include the following:
Privacy Policy
Your Privacy Policy should clearly explain how your website collects and uses visitor information.
Include the following:
- What information you collect (such as name, phone number, email)
- How that information is used (appointments, communication, etc.)
- Whether cookies or tracking tools are used
- How users can opt out of communications (for example, reply STOP for text messages)
- A statement about protecting user data
- Contact information for questions
Terms & Conditions
Your Terms & Conditions must include your website usage terms and required text messaging disclosures.
Include the following:
- A description of your text messaging program (appointment reminders, updates, etc.)
- Message frequency (for example, "Message frequency may vary")
- "Message and data rates may apply" disclosure
- Opt-out instructions (reply STOP)
- Help instructions (reply HELP)
- Customer support contact information
- A link to your Privacy Policy
- A carrier disclaimer ("Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages")
Important: Text messaging (SMS) disclosures must be included in your Terms & Conditions—not only in your Privacy Policy.
Why This Is Required
Mobile carriers require these disclosures to ensure that patients:
- Understand how their information is used
- Know they are agreeing to receive text messages
- Can opt out or request help at any time
These requirements apply to all businesses using text messaging.
If You Already Have These Pages
If your website already includes a Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions, you may only need to add the required text messaging disclosures listed above.