> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.autocampaign.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Toll-free verification

> When to use a toll-free number and how to get it verified for business texting.

## Overview

Toll-free numbers (numbers starting with 800, 888, 877, etc.) are an alternative to
10-digit local numbers for business texting. Like local numbers, they must be
**verified** with the carriers before you can send in volume. Until then, your
messages are slowed down heavily or blocked. This is called
[toll-free verification](/getting-started/glossary#toll-free-verification).

<Info>
  **Time to complete:** \~15 minutes to submit, then several business days for
  carrier review  ·  **Difficulty:** Intermediate
</Info>

<Note>
  For standard 10-digit local numbers, use [A2P 10DLC registration](/compliance/a2p-10dlc)
  instead. This page is about **toll-free** numbers specifically.
</Note>

## Buy a toll-free number

You can buy a toll-free number from within Autocampaign AI. On your SMS channel's
**Numbers** tab, click **Buy New Number**, choose your country, and filter by the
**toll-free** number type before searching.

## Verify your toll-free number

Toll-free verification is submitted through your connected
[provider](/getting-started/glossary#provider), the phone company behind your
numbers ([Twilio](/providers/twilio) or [Telnyx](/providers/telnyx)). The carriers
review your business, your use case, how people agree to receive your texts, and
your sample messages. It's similar in spirit to 10DLC, but for toll-free numbers.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Buy or identify your toll-free number">
    Buy one in Autocampaign AI or use an existing toll-free number on your provider.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Submit toll-free verification with your provider">
    Complete the toll-free verification form in your provider's console with your
    business details, opt-in flow, and sample messages.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Wait for approval">
    Approval typically takes several business days. Until then, keep volume low.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## FAQ

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Toll-free or 10DLC — which should I use?">
    10DLC uses standard local numbers and suits most senders. Toll-free is useful for
    a recognizable national number and can send at high volume once verified. You
    can use either; the registration paths differ.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I still need consent and opt-out handling?">
    Yes. All the same compliance rules apply. Collect consent and honor
    [opt-outs](/compliance/opt-out) whatever type of number you use.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How long does verification take?">
    Typically several business days, depending on carrier review.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Troubleshooting

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Why are my toll-free messages being filtered?">
    An unverified toll-free number is slowed down heavily. Complete toll-free
    verification with your provider, and make sure your opt-in flow and sample
    messages are consistent.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

<Card title="A2P 10DLC" icon="shield-check" href="/compliance/a2p-10dlc">
  Register standard local numbers.
</Card>