How to Collect SMS Permission

Before sending any SMS messages - whether promotional or service-related - you need proper permission from the recipient. This is not just a legal requirement in many countries, but also a best practice for maintaining trust and message deliverability.

In this guide, you will find examples of how to collect SMS permission in a way that is clear, compliant, and user-friendly.

What Is SMS Permission?

SMS permission means a person has actively agreed to receive SMS messages from your business. This is required under regulations such as GDPR (EU), TCPA (US), and PECR (UK).

Valid SMS permission must be:

• Freely given

• Specific and informed

• An active opt-in (e.g., a checkbox, keyword reply, or signed agreement)

1. Website Signup Forms

Include a mobile number field and a clear SMS opt-in option in your forms.

Example:

Enter your mobile number to receive updates by SMS.

[ X ] I agree to receive SMS messages from [Company Name]. I can unsubscribe at any time.

Consent must be optional, with no pre-checked boxes.

2. Checkout Pages

During the checkout flow, offer SMS updates as an optional service.

Example:

[ X ] Yes, send me SMS updates about my order and future offers.

Do not combine marketing messages with transactional notifications - keep consent separate.

3. Account Sign-Up or Profile Preferences

Provide an SMS opt-in as part of user registration or account settings.

Example:

[ X ] I would like to receive SMS updates from [Company Name].

Let users review and update their preferences at any time.

4. Keyword-Based Opt-In

This is one of the simplest and most direct ways to collect SMS permission.

Example:

Text JOIN to 12345 to receive SMS updates and offers.

You must follow up with a confirmation message that clearly states:

• Who is sending the messages

• What type of content they will receive

• How to opt out (e.g., "Reply STOP to unsubscribe")

5. QR Codes and Print Material

You can use physical spaces to guide users to a digital SMS signup.

Example:

On a poster or receipt:
Scan this QR code to sign up for SMS alerts and promotions.

The landing page should have:

• A mobile number input

• A clear, optional SMS consent checkbox

6. Events and Trade Shows

If you collect phone numbers at events, make sure consent is clearly requested.

Example:

Enter your mobile number for updates.

[ X ] I agree to receive marketing messages by SMS from [Company Name].

Consent must be explicit and documented, even in in-person settings.

7. Gamification and Competitions

Contests, prize draws, or games are a great way to engage customers - but consent must still be optional.

Example:

Enter your number to play. Tick the box below if you want to get SMS offers too.

[ X ] Yes, send me SMS updates and offers.

Do not require consent to participate in the activity.

Best Practices for SMS Permission

Collecting permission is just the first step - how you manage it matters too. These best practices will help you stay compliant, build trust, and improve long-term SMS performance.

• Keep a record of when and how consent was collected

• Make opt-out instructions clear in every message

• Use double opt-in if legally required or to ensure intent

• Never assume consent from silence or inactivity

• Keep marketing consent separate from transactional messages

Following these simple guidelines helps protect your brand, avoid complaints, and ensure your SMS communication stays relevant and welcome.

Why SMS Permission Matters for Your Business

Collecting SMS permission is not just a legal checkbox - it directly affects how your messages perform and how your brand is perceived.

If you send SMS messages without proper consent, you risk:

• Legal consequences, including fines from data protection authorities

• Customer complaints and opt-outs

• Lower deliverability, as carriers may flag your number as spam

On the other hand, when SMS permission is collected the right way, you get:

• Higher engagement, because recipients expect and want your messages

• Stronger customer relationships, built on transparency and choice

• Better performance data, from a clean, permission-based list

In short, collecting SMS permission is about more than compliance - it is about building trust, protecting your reputation, and getting better results from your communication.