***
title: Applying for SMS Approval
description: Learn how to apply for SMS approval to run compliant SMS campaigns in Gail.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
# 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.
SMS approval typically takes 5-7 business days. This timeline is determined by the SMS provider, not Gail.
## 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**
You must complete business verification before you can apply for SMS approval.
## 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.
TCPA compliance is a legal requirement. Ensure your website meets all requirements before proceeding.
## Step 5: Select Your Use Case
Choose the messaging category that best fits your business needs:
| Use Case | Description |
| ------------------------ | -------------------------------------------- |
| **Customer Care** | Account management, inquiries, support |
| **Account Notification** | Alerts, reminders, appointment confirmations |
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.
Include realistic examples that represent the types of messages you'll actually send. This helps ensure faster approval.
## 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
Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in approval.
## 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](/platform/settings/team-management) - Manage team access
* [Billing & Usage](/platform/settings/billing-and-usage) - Monitor SMS usage
* [Creating Campaigns](/platform/communications/outbound/creating-campaigns) - Set up your first SMS campaign