# US compliance & best practices checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you're compliant and following best practices before sending [SMS/MMS](https://docs.bird.com/applications/~/changes/SidqSnOUVNHmcp2wkLG7/help-and-reference/deliverability-and-compliance/united-states-sms-mms-compliance/us-sms-mms-compliance) messages or placing [Voice](https://docs.bird.com/applications/~/changes/SidqSnOUVNHmcp2wkLG7/help-and-reference/deliverability-and-compliance/united-states-sms-mms-compliance/us-voice-compliance) calls to recipients.

## Compliance restrictions

* [ ] Obtain prior express written consent from customers before sending SMS or MMS messages, or placing voice calls.
* [ ] Provide clear and conspicuous disclosures to customers about what they are consenting to and how they can opt-out of being contacted.
* [ ] Honor opt-out requests from customers and ensure that opt-out mechanisms are easy to use.
* [ ] Do not call customers on the FTC Do-Not-Call List or your internal Do-Not-Call List.
* [ ] Avoid sending SMS or MMS messages or making telemarketing calls before 8 AM or after 9 PM in the recipient's time zone, unless express consent has been obtained for such messages to be sent during those hours. Stricter rules may apply per state.
* [ ] Respect content restriction to avoid being blocked or additional fines.

## Best practices

* [ ] Make sure you provide the recipient with value. Don’t send unwanted or unexpected messages. 
* [ ] Avoid sending messages at a frequency that could be considered excessive or harassing.
* [ ] Use accurate and up-to-date contact lists to ensure that messages are going to the correct person. 
* [ ] Use technology that can identify and block the numbers of recipients who have opted out. 
* [ ] Train employees and contractors who are involved in SMS/MMS marketing to comply with TCPA and CTIA regulations. 
* [ ] Keep detailed records of SMS/MMS/Voice marketing activities, including consent and opt-out requests. 
* [ ] Have an attorney review your SMS/MMS/ Voice marketing policies and procedures to ensure compliance with TCPA and CTIA regulations.