Opt-in Missing Fee Disclosure
Why This Rejection Happens
The first message sent to the user (the "Opt-in Confirmation") failed to inform them that message and data rates may apply. Even though unlimited plans are common, carriers legally require this fee disclosure in the initial SMS.
Common Triggers: A welcome message that says "Welcome to our club!" but omits the mandatory "Msg & Data rates may apply" text.
Root Cause Analysis
Primary Triggers
- Assumed Free: The business assumes that because they don't charge a fee, they don't need to warn users. The warning is about carrier charges, not brand charges.
- Space Saving: The phrase was removed to keep the SMS under 160 characters.
- Incomplete Template: Using a default "Thank you for subscribing" template that lacks compliance language.
Required Elements
| Element | Required Language | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Fee Disclosure | "Msg & data rates may apply" | Legal requirement for consumer awareness. |
| Timing | First Message | Must be in the confirmation SMS. |
| Alternative | "Std msg/data rates apply" | Acceptable abbreviation. |
Step-by-Step Remediation
Review Your "Opt-in Message"
Go to your campaign registration. Look at the "Opt-in Message" or "Sample 1" field.
✓ Compliant Message
"[Brand]: You are subscribed. Msg freq varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to cancel."
✗ Non-Compliant Message
"[Brand]: You are subscribed. Msg freq varies. Reply STOP to cancel."
(Missing fee warning.)
Update Your Platform
Log in to your SMS provider and add the fee disclosure sentence to your automated welcome message.
Update Registration
Paste the updated message text into the TCR portal. Ensure it matches your live system configuration.
Carrier-Specific Requirements
T-Mobile
- Requires "Msg & data rates may apply" to be present in the first message sent to the handset.
AT&T
- Will flag messages as non-compliant if they imply "free" messaging without the carrier fee caveat.
MyTCRPlus Tools That Can Help
Message Flow Validator
Check if your Opt-in Message meets all compliance criteria, including fee disclosures.
Use This Tool →Keyword Response Generator
Generate a compliant welcome message template that fits within character limits.
Use This Tool →Pre-Resubmission Checklist
- The message includes "Msg & data rates may apply" (or similar).
- The disclosure is in the first message (Opt-in).
- I have updated the "Opt-in Message" sample in the portal.
- I have updated the live platform configuration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ "Free alerts"
Do not say "Welcome to free alerts" unless you qualify it with "Msg rates may apply." "Free" refers to your subscription fee, not carrier transport fees.
❌ Splitting Messages
Do not put the fee disclosure in a second, separate text. It must be in the initial confirmation message.
Expected Timeline
This guidance provides general information about 10DLC compliance requirements. Fee disclosures protect businesses from consumer complaints regarding unexpected carrier charges. Organizations should ensure their initial confirmation message includes the standard fee warning. MyTCRPlus does not provide legal advisory services or regulatory representation.