Frequently Asked Questions About Texting
Text messaging continues to be one of the most effective communication channels available. Below you'll find answers to the most common questions about using Text-Em-All's text messaging platform.
Do I need consent to send text messages?
Yes, you must have consent from all message recipients. Text-Em-All requires proper consent for all text messaging and will not allow you to send political solicitation messages.
The type of consent required depends on your message type:
- Informational messages (reminders, alerts, updates): Require express consent
- Promotional messages (marketing, sales, offers): Require express written consent
Learn more about consent requirements for different message types.
How much does text messaging cost?
Text messaging costs are based on message length and your account type. Both Credits and Monthly users have different pricing structures for outbound messages.
Credits users: Every 160 characters within an outbound text message equals one credit, up to 960 characters (6 credits maximum).
Monthly users: Outbound text messages up to 320 characters are included in your flat rate fee. Enhanced messages between 321-960 characters cost 5 cents per recipient.
Inbound messages are free for both plans.
How does text messaging work?
Text-Em-All automatically identifies which numbers can receive text messages and sends accordingly. When you create a broadcast, simply select 'text only' or 'voice and text' as your message type.
Our system scans your contact list and immediately shows you which contacts are textable (cell phones) and which are not (landlines). Text messages are automatically sent to textable numbers, while landlines can receive voice messages if you've selected the voice and text option.
What makes a number textable?
A number is textable if it's a cell phone number that has not opted out of receiving messages. We work with our carriers to determine which phone numbers are cell phones versus landlines.
Within your contacts, landlines are identified by a grey text box symbol with a line through it, indicating they cannot receive text messages or have opted out.
Can people opt out of receiving texts?
Yes, contacts can easily opt out by replying with standard opt-out keywords. They can respond to your text number with any of these words: STOP, QUIT, END, CANCEL, UNSUBSCRIBE, OPT OUT, OPT-OUT, OPTOUT, or REVOKE.
Important: Opting out of text messages will also opt the contact out of receiving voice calls from your account.
If someone accidentally opts out, they can send the word 'UNSTOP' to your text number to begin receiving messages again.
What happens when someone calls my text number?
The response depends on whether you have a Text-Em-All assigned number or your own text-enabled number.
- Text-Em-All assigned numbers: A message plays explaining that the number is for text messages only
- Your own text-enabled number: It operates normally and people can still call it
Can I control who gets texts versus voice calls?
Yes, you can manage communication preferences through contact groups and message type selection. Our system automatically sends texts to cell phones when you choose "text only" or "voice and text" options.
For contacts who prefer voice calls only, create a separate 'voice only' group in your contacts. When messaging this group, select 'voice only' as your message type. The same approach works for text-preferred contacts.
Can I have multiple text numbers?
Yes, you can have multiple text numbers for different teams or departments within your organization. However, one number per account works great in most cases and simplifies management.
Can I text from my existing business number?
Yes, we can text-enable your existing business or landline number. You'll keep the ability to use the number for voice calls while all text messaging goes through Text-Em-All.
Learn more about texting from your business number.
Can I send images or attachments?
Yes, both Credits and Monthly users can send images in text messages. Files must be in .jpeg or .png format.
Additional costs apply:
- Credits users: One additional credit per recipient for messages with images
- Monthly users: 5 cents per recipient for messages with images
Can I include links in my messages?
Yes, you can include website links in your text messages. While text messages only support typed characters, most smartphones automatically convert recognized web addresses into clickable links.
Simply type your full web address (like https://www.yourwebsite.com) in your message, and recipients with smartphones will be able to tap the link to visit your website.
Can I personalize text messages?
Yes, you can add unlimited custom fields to personalize each message. Common personalizations include first name, last name, appointment time, and other custom information specific to each recipient.