Applying for SMS Approval

Before you can run SMS campaigns, your agency must apply for and receive SMS approval. This ensures compliance with messaging regulations and prevents delivery issues.

Prerequisites

Before applying for SMS approval, ensure:

• Your agency is verified as a business in Gail
• Your website has TCPA-compliant SMS consent mechanisms
• You have clear opt-in and opt-out processes documented

Step 1: Navigate to Settings

From the left-hand menu, click Settings.

Step 2: Verify Your Business

Ensure your agency is verified as a business.

1. If not already verified, complete the Verify Phone process under the Verify Phone section
2. Once verified, the section will display VERIFIED

Step 3: Start SMS Verification

1. Scroll down to the Verify Messaging section
2. Click the Apply button to begin

Step 4: Review TCPA Disclaimer

A pop-up disclaimer will appear reminding you of TCPA compliance requirements.

TCPA Compliance Requirements

Your website must:

• Display a TCPA-compliant SMS consent statement
• Have a clear opt-in mechanism (checkbox/form)
• Provide an easy opt-out option (STOP/HELP)

Click Next when ready.

Step 5: Select Your Use Case

Choose the messaging category that best fits your business needs:

Click Next after selecting your use case.

Step 6: Describe Your Use Case

Provide details about how you will use SMS messaging.

You may:

• Type your own description, OR
• Select a pre-provided template and edit the bracketed fields

Example description:

We use SMS messaging to send appointment reminders, policy updates, 
and renewal notices to our insurance clients who have opted in to 
receive text communications.

Click Next when complete.

Step 7: Define Your Opt-In Process

Thoroughly describe how customers give consent to receive SMS. Answer these key questions:

Required Information

1. How do users opt in?

   • Describe the specific method (web form, checkbox, verbal consent, etc.)

2. What consent language is used?

   • Provide the exact wording customers see/hear

3. How is consent stored and tracked?

   • Explain your record-keeping process

4. How do users opt out?

   • Describe the opt-out mechanism (STOP keyword, unsubscribe link, etc.)

5. How are opt-out requests handled?

   • Explain your process for honoring opt-out requests

Example opt-in description:

Users opt in by checking a box on our website that states: "I agree to 
receive text messages from [Agency Name] regarding appointments, policy 
updates, and other account notifications. Message and data rates may apply. 
Text STOP to opt out at any time."
Consent is stored in our CRM system with a timestamp and IP address. Users 
can opt out by texting STOP to any message, and opt-out requests are 
processed immediately and logged in our system.

You may also use a template provided by Gail.

Click Next when finished.

Step 8: Add Message Templates

Provide at least two example SMS messages that you plan to send.

Example Message Templates

Appointment Reminder:

Hi [Name], this is a reminder about your appointment with [Agency] 
tomorrow at [Time]. Reply CONFIRM or call us at [Phone]. Reply STOP to opt out.

Policy Renewal:

Hi [Name], your policy with [Agency] is up for renewal on [Date]. 
We'll call you soon to discuss. Reply STOP to opt out.

You can type your own or select from system-provided templates.

Step 9: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve added two or more message templates:

1. Review all information for accuracy
2. Click Save
3. Your application will be submitted for review

After Submission

What Happens Next

• Your application enters review with the SMS provider
• You’ll receive a notification once the review is complete
• Approval typically takes 5-7 business days

Checking Status

Check your SMS approval status at Settings → Verify Messaging:

Status: Pending Review
Submitted: January 15, 2024
Expected Response: January 22, 2024

If Approved

Once approved, you can:

• Create and send SMS campaigns
• Send text reminders and notifications
• Use SMS in outbound sequences

If Additional Information is Needed

If the provider requests additional information:

1. You’ll receive an email notification
2. Go to Settings → Verify Messaging
3. Provide the requested information
4. Resubmit for review

Best Practices

Compliance Tips

• Always obtain clear, affirmative consent before sending SMS
• Include opt-out instructions in every message
• Honor opt-out requests immediately
• Keep detailed records of consent

Message Guidelines

• Keep messages concise and relevant
• Include your agency name
• Provide value in every message
• Send messages during appropriate hours (9 AM - 8 PM local time)

Avoiding Rejections

Common reasons for rejection:

• Vague or incomplete use case descriptions
• Missing opt-in/opt-out processes
• Non-compliant message templates
• Lack of TCPA compliance on website

Troubleshooting

Application Rejected

If your application is rejected:

1. Review the rejection reason provided
2. Make the necessary corrections
3. Resubmit your application

Approval Taking Longer Than Expected

If your approval is taking longer than 7 business days:

1. Check your email for any requests for additional information
2. Contact Gail support for an update
3. Ensure you’ve responded to any provider inquiries

Next Steps

• Team Management - Manage team access
• Billing & Usage - Monitor SMS usage
• Creating Campaigns - Set up your first SMS campaign