Hi, I'm Jessica from SteepleMate! I've spent a great portion of my career in non-profit management navigating the challenges big tech brings to ministries. When it comes to mass communication, it’s crucial for churches to understand the complexities of U.S. carrier compliance and how it impacts their choice of messaging channels.
In this blog, I’ll break down the differences between 10DLC, short codes, and toll-free numbers, and explain why 1-800 numbers are the most church-friendly solution.
What is 10DLC?
Most churches are using 10DLC (10-Digit Long Codes) without realizing it. These are the standard 10 digit phone numbers formated with a local area code.
While 10DLC allows for mass texting, it comes with carrier-mandated compliance hurdles.
To legally send mass texts through 10DLC, churches must:
• Register campaigns and content with carriers.
• Pay fees for registration and monthly oversight.
• Follow strict content guidelines to avoid being flagged as spam.
Failing to do this can lead to blocked messages, hefty fines, or even service suspension
What is a Short Code?
Short codes are 5-6 digit numbers that businesses often use to send promotional messages (ex. 55577). These numbers are favorable as they're easier to remember and allow for high-volume messaging.
However, short codes:
• Require carrier pre-approval.
• Are expensive—costing up to $12,000 per year.
• Have compliance risks if misused.
The Problem with 10DLC and Short Codes for Churches
Churches face the same compliance burdens as large corporations when using 10DLC or Short Codes. There is major risk when not compliant; unregistered numbers are automatically stopped, fines up to $10,000 per violation (or text you send), and multiple violations can lead to permanent restrictions.
This means well-meaning churches and ministries sending prayer requests or event reminders can get flagged.
Why Churches Should Use 1-800 Numbers
1-800 numbers, being toll-free, operate with less stringent oversight and are often pre-verified, making compliance simpler and reducing the risk of penalties.
At SteepleMate, we facilitate the process of verification with major carriers, ensuring the numbers churches use are trusted by carriers and exempt from many of the registration hassles that come with 10DLC and Short Codes.
Once the 1-800 number is verified, they have a higher trust level with carriers which means messages are less likely to be blocked and prayer requests, announcements, and reminders reliably reach the congregation.
Dedicated 1-800 numbers are also affordable for the average church, scalable for church growth, and there are no recurring registration fees. Here's a cost-break down:
- Short Codes: Cost up to $12,000/year
- 10DLC: Requires monthly fees + compliance costs.
- 1800 Numbers: Saves churches thousands of dollars while reaching just as many people.
Would you like help getting started with a 1-800 number for your church? Reach out to us at SteepleMate. We’d love to support your ministry’s growth while helping you stay compliant in a secular world.