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Toll-Free SMS Registration Requirements: New Rules in 2026

We’re preparing for an upcoming change to Toll-Free SMS registration requirements from Twilio.

We’re preparing for an upcoming change to Toll-Free SMS registration requirements from Twilio.

This article explains what’s changing, who it affects, and what information you’ll need when requesting a new Toll-Free Number (TFN) in GatherUp.

Important: This update only applies to new Toll-Free Numbers. Existing verified TFNs are not impacted.

Overview

SMS messaging is one of the most effective ways to connect with customers whether you’re requesting reviews, following up on feedback, or responding quickly to customer needs. Because of its reach and reliability, mobile carriers are increasing verification standards to protect consumers and reduce spam.

In response to updated carrier requirements, Twilio is introducing new verification rules for Toll-Free SMS messaging. Starting February 10, 2025, any new Toll-Free Number must be registered with additional business information before it can be used for messaging.

As your partner, GatherUp is proactively updating our workflow to support these new requirements and help keep your SMS messaging compliant and uninterrupted.

What’s Changing

Beginning February 10, 2025:

  • Anyone requesting a new Toll-Free Number must submit additional business details during registration
  • As before, Toll-Free Numbers must be registered to the business entity sending messages, not a parent company or marketing agency
  • These requirements are enforced by mobile carriers via Twilio

No action is required if you already have a verified Toll-Free Number in GatherUp.

Required Information for New Toll-Free Numbers

When requesting a new TFN through GatherUp, you’ll be prompted to provide the following details.

Required

  • Legal business name
  • Business type

  • Business registration number

  • U.S. businesses: Employer Identification Number (EIN)

  • Business registration country (if outside the U.S.)

  • Business owner name and email

  • Must be the owner of the specific business location

  • Use a business email when possible (not a personal email like @gmail.com)
  • DBA (Doing Business As) name, if applicable

Getting Started

When you create a new business in GatherUp, the setup flow will prompt you to enter additional details about the business to request a toll-free number.

If you skip this step during setup, you can always add the information and request a number later. If you haven't submitted your number yet, the system will alert you and prompt you to provide the necessary details.

You can also find the toll-free number registration form by navigating to settings → business details.

Where to Find This Information

Most businesses can find these details in their registration or formation documents, including:

  • Articles of Incorporation or Organization
  • State or federal business registration records
  • DBA or “Assumed Name,” filings
  • Business licenses or certificates
  • State registration confirmations

If you’re missing information, you can also:

  • Use your state’s or country’s business lookup website
  • Contact the agency that registered your business

Enter the full legal name exactly as it appears on official registration documents. This description may be longer than your storefront or website name.

Doing Business As (DBA)

If the business operates under a different public name, enter that name here. If the public name matches the legal name, re-enter the legal business name.

Business Type

Select the legal structure used when the business was registered, such as:

  • LLC
  • Corporation
  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Partnership

Business Registration Number

This number is the unique identifier assigned when the business was registered.

  • U.S. businesses should enter their EIN
  • Other countries may use different registration numbers

Registration Authority

Select the government or legal authority that issued the registration, such as:

  • CBN – Canadian Business Number
  • ABN – Australian Business Number

Why SMS Messaging Matters

SMS is one of the fastest and most effective ways to engage customers:

  • Better response rates when used alongside email—Businesses that send texts alongside email generate 80% more reviews per request than businesses that rely on email alone.
  • Stronger customer relationships through quick, direct communication

These new registration steps help ensure your messages are delivered reliably and trusted by carriers—so you can continue using SMS to grow reviews and improve customer experience.

Navigate to SMS requests to set up your text templates for review requests today.

Good to Know

  • This change only affects new Toll-Free Numbers. Existing verified TFNs will continue working as-is.
  • Changes will be enforced for new numbers starting February 10th, 2026
  • Toll-Free Numbers must be registered to the actual business, not an agency or third party

Questions?

If you have questions or need help registering a new Toll-Free Number, reach out to us anytime at support@gatherup.com.