Toll Free Number Verification

Overview of TFN Verification

The messaging industry is evolving to prioritize compliance and transparency. In line with the introduction of A2P routes for 10DLC, Toll Free Numbers (TFNs) are now required to undergo a verification process that confirms both business identity and campaign use case information. The primary objective of TFN verification is to enhance transparency in A2P business messaging, improve customer protection, and reduce spam.

Toll Free Numbers, or TFNs, are phone numbers that start with 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833. Any business using a TFN to send messages must complete the TFN verification process. Beginning January 2024, unverified TFNs will be fully blocked from sending outbound A2P traffic.

TFN Verification Process

Each TFN line intended for A2P messaging must be individually verified. This means that every additional TFN line will require a separate verification submission.

The verification process collects information about the business, the methods used to obtain customer consent for messaging, and the intended use cases for text messaging. Sample messages that the business plans to send via TFNs are also required. The Textel provisioning team will gather this information through an online form.

Business Information requested:

The following business details are required for verification:

  • Legal Business Name
  • Address
  • Business Industry and Type
  • Business Website
  • Primary Contact Details

Opt-In Process:

A critical component of verification is documenting the opt-in process. Opt-in refers to how a business obtains explicit consent from consumers to send them text messages. The Wireless Association and major mobile network operators (such as T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon) require a clear, direct, and one-to-one opt-in process. Common methods for gathering consent include:

  • Web form: An online form on the business website where users enter their phone number and opt in to receive messages.
  • Paper form: A physical form that collects phone numbers and consent for messaging.
  • Keyword via text: Customers opt in by texting a specific keyword to a designated number.
  • Verbal: Consent is obtained through a phone call or IVR system where customers agree to receive text messages.

Campaign Use Case

The use case describes the type of messaging content the business will send. Common use case categories include:

  • Customer Care: Interactions related to account management and customer support.
  • Marketing: Messages promoting the purchase, rental, or investment in products or services.
  • Account Notifications: Standard notifications for account holders regarding their accounts.
  • 2FA: One-time passcodes, authentication, or verification messages.
  • Delivery Notifications: Updates on the status of product or service deliveries.
  • Events: Notifications about upcoming changes, non-marketing events, or urgent issues (e.g., service outages).
  • Higher Education: Messaging on behalf of colleges, universities, school districts, and educational institutions (excluding "free to the consumer" models).
  • K-12: Messaging platforms supporting K-12 schools and distance learning centers.
  • Fraud Alert Messaging: Notifications about potential fraudulent activity on user accounts.
  • Political (Election Campaigns): Messages as part of organized efforts to influence decision-making.
  • Polling and Voting: Surveys and polling/voting campaigns in non-political contexts.
  • Public Service Announcement: Informational messages to raise awareness about important issues.
  • Security Alert: Notifications regarding compromised system security requiring action.
  • Charity/501(c)(3) Nonprofit: Communications from registered charities or nonprofits aimed at providing assistance and raising funds.
After Registration Submission

Once the verification form is submitted to Textel, the team will coordinate with partner carriers to complete the verification process. The TFN verification timeline typically ranges from one to four weeks, depending on submission volume, approval times, and the completeness of the information provided.

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