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SMS Opt-In Guide: Web Forms

Gathering phone numbers through web forms? Adhere to this guide to ensure that your practices align with legal requirements and standards.

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Written by Operations Manager
Updated over a week ago

Incorporating a compliant opt-in feature on your website is a common application of web forms. Salesmsg's Demo Web Form serves as an excellent example, illustrating the standards and appearance of a legally compliant Web Form. Web form description requires a link where presented form can be viewed and checked.

Type

Description

Compliance Language

Compliance language should appear directly beneath the CTA (call to action).

Must Include:

  • Your business/brand name

  • What messages the user will receive

  • Message frequency (e.g., “Message frequency may vary”)

  • “Message & data rates may apply”

  • Reply STOP to cancel

  • Reply HELP for assistance (recommended)

Disclosures must be visible near the checkbox - not hidden in links.

"I agree to receive recurring automated marketing text messages at the phone number provided. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. View our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy."

Message Type

Separate Consent by Message Type


If you send both:

  • Customer Care / Transactional messages (appointments, account updates), and

  • Marketing / Promotional messages

You must have separate checkboxes for each.

❌ Not allowed: One checkbox covering all SMS types
❌ Not allowed: “By submitting this form, you agree to receive texts”

Each message category requires its own consent:

Terms of Service

Provide a direct link to your terms of service.

Privacy Policy

Provide a direct link to your privacy policy.

💡 Pro tip: if your privacy policy references "data sharing", your 10DLC application may be rejected unless your policy specifically outlines SMS opt-in consent and data will not be shared.

Website Footer

Your Terms of Service and Privacy Policy should be linked just below the opt-in form.

Sharing Third Party Data?

If you're sharing third party data with other providers, you'll need to update your privacy policy to include the following...

All the above categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.


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