12 Opt-In Text Message Examples to Grow Your SMS Subscriber List Fast

17 Sep 2025

Bri Barnett

Have you ever experienced this? You open your favorite brand’s website, and a small pop-up says, “Do you want exclusive deals? Text JOIN to 45678.” You do it, and within seconds, you start receiving the best discount messages on your phone. It is not magic, but it is the power of opt-in text.

If you’re already using or planning to use text messaging to connect with your customers, remember that securing consent is the first important step. You cannot just start texting anyone. You need permission for it. This consent, known as an SMS opt-in, is not just any random recommendation; it is a legal requirement.

In this article, we will discuss what SMS opt-in is, why it is important for your business, provide opt-in text message examples, provide best practices to craft perfect opt-in texts, and much more. By the end of this blog, you will have everything you need to grow your SMS list quickly and stay compliant.

What is an SMS Opt-in Message?

An SMS Opt-in is permission from a customer to receive your text messages. It is like them raising their hand and saying, “Yes, I want to hear from you!”

For example,

Text ‘YES’ to 12345 to get 10% off your first order.

This consent is not just polite, but it is legally required under SMS marketing rules like TCPA, 10DLC, and CTIA. If you do not obtain permission, you are at risk of hefty fines and losing customer trust.

This is when a consumer joins your business’s SMS list, giving you permission to send marketing messages, reminders, and alerts via text messages.

There are three primary types of SMS opt-in procedures.

Single Opt-In – With this method, the consumers who join your SMS list are added immediately without a confirmation step.

Double Opt-In – This is when a customer requests to join your SMS list and then receives the confirmation opt-in text message, letting them verify if they want to join. It also provides confirmation to the business that the phone number is accurate.

Soft Opt-In – Here, you invite existing contacts to join your SMS list, typically by email. Since you already have their information, you’re simply offering them another channel for communication.

The image below shows an example of single opt-in and double opt-in. Usually, double opt-in is considered the best practice.

The secondary types of SMS opt-ins are website forms, text-to-join keywords, QR codes, paper forms, and verbal consent. Let’s understand them briefly.

Type	How It Works	Example
Web Form Opt-In	Customers opt-in through an online form or landing page.	Subscribing to SMS updates while checking out on an eCommerce site.
Keyword Opt-In	Users opt in by texting the specific keyword to a short code.	Text “JOIN” to get brand updates
In-Store Opt-In	Customers opt in physically at a store or event.	Filling out a sign-up card or using a QR code at checkout.
Social Media/ Ad Opt-In	Opt-ins collected through ads, social media campaigns, or lead forms	Clicking a “Subscribe via SMS” button on a Facebook ad.
QR Codes Opt-In	Customers scan a QR code that leads to an SMS subscription form or triggers a pre-filled text message.	Scanning a QR code on a restaurant table tent to get daily specials.
Paper Form-In Opt-In	Customers provide their number on a physical sign-up sheet or card.	Filling out a membership form at the gym to receive SMS alerts.
Verbal Consent	Customers give verbal permission to receive SMS, usually confirmed with a follow-up text.	A receptionist asks, “Can we text you appointment reminders?” and the client agrees.

SMS Opt-in vs. SMS Opt-Out

When building an SMS strategy, usually opt-ins get most of the attention, but understanding opt-outs is also equally important. While opt-ins help you grow your list, opt-outs show you how well you’re retaining subscribers.

When you know both the opt-in and opt-out rate, it ensures you strike the right balance between attracting new customers and respecting their choice to leave.

Here is the quick comparison of SMS Opt-in Vs. SMS Opt-Out, which helps you understand what opt-in and opt-out mean and how knowing both is important.

Feature	SMS Opt-In	SMS Opt-Out
What does it mean?	It means a person gives you permission to send them marketing or informational text messages. It is the start of the conversation between your brand and the customer.	SMS opt-out means when the person withdraws their permission and tells you to stop sending messages. The SMS relationship ends unless a person opts in again.
Action	The customer takes the positive action, such as texting a keyword like JOIN, YES, or START to a shortcode or clicking the checkbox on the website.	The customer texts a keyword such as STOP, UNSUBSCRIBE, or CANCEL to your number or shortcode. This must be immediate and easy.
Goal	The main goal is to grow your SMS subscriber list legally and ethically. Therefore, you only message people who want to hear from you.	The main goal of SMS opt-out is to give customers control and maintain compliance with SMS marketing regulations like TCPA.
Timing	At the start of the relationship, before you send any promotional messages.	Anytime the customer does not want messages anymore, even after they’ve opted in.
Example	“Text JOIN to 45678 to get 15% off your next order with FreshCart.”	“Reply STOP to unsubscribe from GlowSpa messages.”
Impact on Business	It helps build trust, compliance, and a targeted list of engaged customers.	It protects your brand reputation, avoids penalties, and keeps your list clean and engaged.

Both SMS Opt-In and Opt-Out are essential. Opt-in adds subscribers, and opt-out keeps you compliant and trustworthy.

Why are SMS Opt-Ins Essential for Growing Your Subscriber List?

SMS opt-ins are the foundation of your text marketing strategy. Let’s understand why it is important.

Permission means trust. People who opt in want your messages. It offers higher engagement, as subscribers are more likely to open and respond.

SMS opt-ins keep you safe from lawsuits and fines. It offers better ROI, as you will get targeted and more interested audiences. Therefore, there are more chances of conversions.

Reason	Explanation	Benefit for Subscriber Growth
Compliance with Regulations	SMS opt-ins ensure you follow TCPA and GDPR guidelines by getting explicit consent.	It protects your business from legal risk while building trust.
High-Quality Leads	Subscribers who have opted in are generally interested in your message.	It offers higher engagement and conversion rates.
Personalized Communication	Opt-ins allow you to gather preferences such as product interest, frequency, etc.	It helps send relevant, targeted messages that retain subscribers.
Stronger Brand Trust	When you ask for customers’ consent through opt-ins, it shows you respect their privacy.	It helps build credibility and long-term relationships.
Reduced Unsubscribes	When people opt in, they know what to expect.	It lowers unsubscribe rates and keeps your list healthy.
Improved Deliverability	Carriers identify permission-based messaging as legitimate.	It ensures your messages reach inboxes instead of being flagged as spam.
Foundation for Growth	A compliant and engaged list is easier to scale.	It creates a sustainable base for future SMS campaigns.

How do SMS Opt-Ins Help Ensure SMS Compliance?

Sending text messages to your customers is not as simple as hitting “send.” In many countries, such as the U.S., there are strict laws, such as TCPA and 10DLC, that protect consumers from spam. These laws require express consent before you text someone. SMS opt-ins act as the legal shield and your customer trust-builder. Let’s understand how.

1. Proof of consent

An opt-in text message is documented consent. When a customer texts you JOIN, YES, or any keywords to your shortcode, you have proof that they agreed to receive a message.

For example,

GlowSpa: Hi, Hannah! Text YES to 56755 to get exclusive beauty deals.

Therefore, if the customer complains later, you can show that they willingly opted in.

2. Trust and Transparency

A proper opt-in text tells customers exactly what they’re signing up for. It includes what type of message they will get, the opt-out method, the frequency of messages, and the compliance note.

For example,

FitFab Studio: Hey, Emma! Text FITNOW to 67890 for free class updates. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

This clarity helps you build trust and reduces opt-out rates.

3. Easy Opt-Out Option

Your users must have an easy way to leave. Even an opt-in message should mention how to unsubscribe.

For example,

StyleNest: Emily, Text JOIN to 12345 for exclusive deals.

Reply STOP to cancel.

4. Avoiding Fines and Lawsuits

Ignoring SMS compliance can cost $500 to $1,500 per unsolicited message under TCPA. An opt-in system eliminates this risk because you’re only sending text messages to people who have permitted you.

What are the Key Elements of an Effective Opt-In Text?

A good opt-in text message example must contain the following elements.

Element	What It Means	Example
Clear keyword	Use simple keywords like JOIN, YES, and START for users to text back.	“Text JOIN to 56789 to sign up for alerts.”
Shortcode or Number	This is the number users should text the keyword to. Remember to keep it short and easy to remember.	“Text YES to 12345”
Value Proposition	Your text message must explain what users will get by opting in, such as a discount, early access, or updates.	“Get 15% off your next order when you text YES to 12345”
Brand Name	Mention your business name so users know who is sending the message and can trust it.	“TasteBites: Text YES to get exclusive food combo offers.”
Compliance Language	You must include legal info and opt-out details.	“Reply STOP to cancel. Msg and data rate apply.”
Confirmation Message	After opt-in, send the follow-up confirming subscription and repeating opt-out info.	“Thanks for joining FoodFunda alerts! Reply STOP to unsubscribe.”

12 Ready-To-Use Opt-In Templates

Here are industry-specific plug-and-play opt-in templates categorized by industry.

1. Real Estate

DreamNest Homes: Looking for your dream property, Tom? Text HOME to 56789 to get instant listings and special offers. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to opt out.

2. Insurance

SecureLife Insurance: Hey, Rozy! Stay protected and save!

Text COVER to 12345 for exclusive insurance plans and tips.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

3. Solar

SunBright Solar: Want to cut your energy bills, Holly? Text SOLAR to 67890 for a free solar consultation. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to cancel.

4. Home Services

FixItPro: Need quick home repairs, Liam?

Text FIX to 23456 for service discounts and updates.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP anytime.

5. Restaurant and Bar

TasteBites Bar & Grill: Craving a deal, Amelia? Text MENU to 98765 for weekly specials and happy hour alerts. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

6. CRM Software

BizTrack CRM: Hey James! Do you want to manage clients smarter?

Text CRM to 11223 for exclusive software demos and tips.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP to opt out.

7. Non-Profit

Hope4All: Make a difference today, Oliva! Text GIVE to 33399 for updates and ways to help. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to cancel anytime.

8. Travel & Tourism

ExploreMore Tours: Ready for your next adventure, Mia?

Text TRIP to 77788 for travel deals and vacation updates.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP anytime.

9. Healthcare

HealthyLife Clinic: Stay healthy, Clara! Text CARE to 45678 for wellness tips and appointment reminders. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

10. Car Dealership

AutoDrive Motors: Drive your dream car today, Emily!

Text CAR to 88990 for exclusive offers and test drive alerts.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP anytime.

11. Recreational Services

FunZone Adventures: Love thrill rides, Noah? Text FUN to 67890 for special discounts and event updates. Msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to opt out.

12. E-Commerce

StyleNest: Get early access to flash sales, Liam!

Text SHOP to 12345 now.

Msg & data rates apply.

Reply STOP to cancel.

Best Practices for Crafting Opt-In Text Messages

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts that you need to follow while crafting opt-in text messages.

Do’s	Don’ts
You must use clear keywords such as JOIN, SUBSCRIBE, or YES.	Never skip the brand name, as people should know who is texting.
Clearly outline the benefits, such as discounts, updates, or early access.	Do not promise what you cannot deliver.
Include compliance details and keep the message short and simple by keeping the SMS character limit in mind.	Don’t make it complicated because too many steps kill conversions.

Simplify SMS Compliance With Textdrip

Your SMS subscriber list is the community of loyal customers. They are the most powerful marketing assets, but only if you’ve built that list the right way. SMS compliance seems complex, but all you need to do is follow these simple rules.

Get explicit consent from your contacts.
Optimize your messages
Establish a clear opt-in and opt-out process to inform recipients of their expectations.
Are you sending promotional messages? Use double opt-in to double-check recipient consent.

It gives you permission, trust, and compliance while creating a community of engaged audience.

Use the SMS opt-in message examples and templates discussed above to start your SMS strategy. Keep your messages short, clear, and valuable. If you need help simplifying SMS compliance, choose an SMS marketing platform like Textdrip that prioritizes compliance to protect your business. Book a demo to see how this platform’s compliance protections work. Send your first opt-in text today with Textdrip and watch your list of loyal customers grow like never before!