Starting November 25, 2026, the FCC changes how your customers opt out of your texts and robocalls. The final rule, FCC 26-67, was published in the Federal Register on October 26, 2026. This short video covers what a small business should decide before that date.
It is for small-business owners and office managers who text or call customers, for example with appointment reminders, payment reminders or promotions.
Read the full guide: FCC 26-67 effective date: changes by November 25, 2026
The date
The rule takes effect on November 25, 2026. That date replaces the delayed date of January 31, 2027. The text of the rule is in Federal Register document 2026-21821.
One official way to opt out
You may now choose one official way for customers to opt out. The rule names three options: a voice or key-press option on the call, a stop word in reply to a text, or a website or phone number you name.
Choosing is optional. If you choose one, say it clearly on every call and in every text. If you don't choose, keep accepting opt-outs made in any reasonable way.
Seven stop words
For texts, the rule lists seven words: STOP, QUIT, END, REVOKE, OPT OUT, CANCEL and UNSUBSCRIBE. Naming just one of them in each text is enough. But a reply with any of the seven still counts as an opt-out.
One kind of message
A single STOP no longer has to switch everything off. For informational messages, like payment reminders, an opt-out can cover just that kind of message, so fraud alerts can keep coming.
Marketing is different. Opting out of one marketing message ends all your marketing to that customer.
Timing and confirmation
Honor every opt-out within 10 business days. One short confirmation text with no marketing, sent within 5 minutes, is presumed fine.
The FCC says the rule adds no new compliance obligation. It gives you options: you can keep handling opt-outs as before or use the new choices. Our suggestion: check your message templates and your opt-out log before November 25.
A separate proposal, not yet a rule
On the same day the FCC opened a separate proposal, which is not yet a rule: a shorter deadline for honoring opt-outs, two-way texting, a one-step opt-out from everything, and how opt-outs apply to affiliated companies. Comments are due November 25, 2026, and replies December 28, 2026. The text is in Federal Register document 2026-21820.
This page is information, not legal advice.