Missed-call text back, explained
When a call goes unanswered, the system sends the caller a text asking how you can help. This guide covers what it is, what consent means, how STOP works and what to check before you turn it on.
What it is
Missed-call text back is an automatic text message sent to a caller when you don't answer. It starts a conversation while the customer is still looking for someone to help, and it logs the lead so you can follow up.
Consent: who you may text
In the United States, business text messages are covered by rules such as the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Those rules center on consent. A person who calls your business has started contact with you, and a single reply to their call is generally treated differently from marketing messages. Marketing texts need clearer permission.
Keep the first message about the call itself and don't mix in promotions. We are not a law firm and this is not legal advice. If you are unsure about your situation, ask a lawyer.
STOP and opt-outs
- Every contact must be able to reply STOP and be removed from texting.
- Once someone opts out, the system should not text them again.
- Keep a record of opt-outs so they survive changes to your tools.
Carrier registration
U.S. mobile carriers require businesses that send texts from a local number to register their brand and their use case. This is often called A2P 10DLC registration. Unregistered traffic can be filtered or blocked. How long registration takes varies, so we plan for it before launch and tell you where it stands.
Landlines and limits
A text can only reach a mobile number or a text-enabled line. If the caller is on a landline, the text will not arrive. Do not rely on it as the only way to reach people.
What a good message says
- Who you are, in the first few words.
- A short, useful question such as what the caller needs.
- How to opt out.
- No promotions, no pressure, no promises you cannot keep.
Example: “Hi, this is [Business name]. Sorry we missed your call. How can we help? Reply STOP to opt out.”
Is it right for you?
It helps most when calls often go unanswered because you are with a customer or on a job. It is included in the monthly plan. See how it works for electricians and for auto repair shops, or read about our text follow-up.
Common questions
Is missed-call text back legal?
Texting someone who called your business is generally treated differently from marketing, but rules depend on your situation. Keep the message about the call, honor STOP and ask a lawyer if you are unsure. This is not legal advice.
Why does registration matter?
Carriers can filter or block texts from unregistered business numbers, so registration comes before launch.
Will it reach callers on landlines?
No. A text reaches only mobile or text-enabled numbers.
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