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Can we use a short code or toll-free number for texting? 

The short answer is - yes!

ActBlue Field Tools supports all types of numbers across multiple types of texting; read on for which numbers can be used for which type:

Peer-to-Peer Texting

  • 10-digit long code (10DLC): A regular phone number (XXX-XXX-XXXX) - this is the default for Peer-to-Peer Texting. You can customize the area codes of the phone numbers used in your Peer-to-Peer Texting actions.​

  • Toll-free: A 10-digit phone number with a toll-free area code (855, 833, etc.). Toll-free numbers can be configured for Peer-to-Peer Texting upon request; for certain types of clients/entities, toll-free numbers may confer throughput benefits beyond what is possible for regular 10-digit long codes. Reach out to us here more information.

Broadcast and Automated Texting

  • 10-digit long code (10DLC): A regular phone number (XXX-XXX-XXXX) - this is the default for Broadcast Texting. Your account will have one broadcast number (which you can find in Campaign Settings > Broadcast Texting), with an area code requested when you submitted texting registration. If you would like to edit your broadcast texting number (to a different area code, etc.), reach out to us here.

  • Toll-free: A 10-digit phone number with a toll-free area code (855, 833, etc.). Toll-free numbers can be configured for Broadcast/Automated Texting upon request; for certain types of clients/entities, toll-free numbers may confer throughput benefits beyond what is possible for regular 10-digit long codes. Reach out to us here for more information.​

  • Short code: A five-digit phone number (XXXXX). Field Tools can support short codes for Broadcast/Automated Texting upon request. Note that short codes require additional fees of approximately $1,000 per month, plus one-time setup fees; these are direct pass-through fees from Field Tools' underlying messaging provider. Fees vary (new/existing short code, vanity vs. random, etc.); reach out to us here for customized information. But in general, note that Field Tools can support either of the following processes, which can take up to three months to complete:

    • Obtain a new short code: Field Tools can work with you to file an application to obtain a new short code (either a "vanity" short code of desired numbers, pending availability, or a "random" short code with five random digits).

    • Migrate an existing short code: If you already use a short code with another texting vendor, that short code can be migrated to Field Tools.