Express written consent is when a consumer gives clear permission for a business to send them specific types of messages, particularly promotional or marketing texts. This type of consent must include a visible and explicit disclosure stating that the customer agrees to receive telemarketing communications.
Why Is Express Written Consent Important?
Compliance with express written consent laws isn’t just about avoiding fines, it’s about maintaining trust with customers. Here’s why it matters:
Legal Protection: Collecting proper consent protects your business from fines and lawsuits under regulations like the CTIA (U.S.) or CASL (Canada).
Better Customer Relationships: Customers who have opted in are more likely to engage with your messages.
Higher Deliverability Rates: Carriers and compliance platforms are more likely to approve and send messages when consent is documented.
Avoiding Costly Penalties: Non-compliance can be costly. CASL violations can cost as much as $10 million per infraction.
Read our blog for more information on Express written consent and why it matters for business texting.
Giving Express Written Consent (EWC)
Contacts can provide EWC in three ways:
By sending an opt-in keyword at any time : start, commencer
By replying "yes" to a Consent Chat Starter:
The Chat Starter must be categorized as a Consent Chat Starter.
"Yes" must be the immediate next message after the Chat Starter.
3. Through files Staflo receives directly from their customers
Consent Chat Starter
A Consent Chat Starter is a template that enables a rep to collect Express Written Consent from contacts.
Example Consent Chat Starter:
Hi {{customerName}}, it’s {{salesRepName}} from {{companyName}}. We'd like to send you occasional messages with updates, special offers, and important account info. Msgs may be sent using automated tech. Consent isn’t required to buy. Reply YES to agree. Msg & data rates may apply.