VA Academy – Beginner’s Guide
What is TCR?
The Campaign Registry (TCR) is a registration system required for businesses that send Application-to-Person (A2P) text messages using U.S. 10-digit business phone numbers. Its primary purpose is to reduce spam, prevent fraud, and improve the delivery of legitimate business text messages. Businesses using platforms such as HighLevel, Twilio, RingCentral, and other SMS providers often need TCR registration before sending SMS campaigns to U.S. customers. (HighLevel Support Portal)
Why is TCR Important?
Without an approved TCR registration, many U.S. mobile carriers will block or filter business text messages. Registering with TCR helps verify that a business is legitimate and that customers have consented to receive text messages. (Salesforce)
Key Information Needed for TCR Registration
1. Business Information
The business must provide its legal company name, business address, website, tax identification number (if applicable), and contact information. These details are used to verify the company’s identity. (Twilio)
2. Campaign Description
A clear explanation of why the business is sending text messages is required. Examples include appointment reminders, customer support, marketing promotions, lead follow-ups, or account notifications. Generic or vague descriptions are more likely to be rejected. (Salesforce)
3. Message Samples
Businesses must provide examples of the actual SMS messages they plan to send. These samples should accurately reflect the intended purpose of the campaign. (Twilio)
4. Customer Consent (Opt-In)
The business must explain how customers agree to receive text messages. Consent may be collected through website forms, online booking pages, paper forms, or keyword opt-ins. Sending messages without customer permission is not allowed. (CallRail Help Center)
5. Privacy Policy
Most registrations require a publicly accessible Privacy Policy explaining how customer information is collected, stored, and protected. (A2P Genius)
6. Terms and Conditions
Many businesses are also required to provide Terms and Conditions that explain their SMS program, messaging frequency, possible carrier charges, and customer responsibilities. (A2P Genius)
Common Reasons TCR Applications Are Rejected
- Business information does not match official records.
- Website is incomplete or missing required legal pages.
- No Privacy Policy or Terms and Conditions.
- Missing or unclear customer opt-in process.
- Poor or vague campaign description.
- Message samples do not match the stated campaign.
- Business website does not match the registered company information. (Twilio)
Responsibilities of a Virtual Assistant
As a Virtual Assistant, you may be responsible for:
- Collecting business information from the client.
- Reviewing the client’s website for required compliance pages.
- Preparing message samples.
- Documenting the client’s customer opt-in process.
- Completing registration forms in platforms like HighLevel or Twilio.
- Following up on approval status and correcting rejected applications.
Best Practices
- Verify that all business information is accurate before submitting.
- Make sure the website includes both a Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.
- Use clear and realistic SMS message examples.
- Confirm that customers have explicitly agreed to receive text messages.
- Keep copies of all submitted information for future updates or renewals.
Understanding TCR requirements is an increasingly valuable skill for Virtual Assistants who support businesses using CRM systems, SMS marketing, and automation platforms. Proper registration helps clients improve message delivery, remain compliant with carrier requirements, and reduce the risk of rejected or blocked SMS campaigns. (HighLevel Support Portal)