---
title: "TCPA Rules Every Business Must Know (Calls, Texts, Emails & AI)"
description: "The **Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)** regulates marketing calls, texts, and voicemails in the U.S. You must get **express written consent** before sending promotional or automated messages—including **AI-assisted or recorded calls**. You must also allow easy **opt-out options** and honor…"
url: "https://help.affordablecare.ai/docs/tcpa-rules-every-business-must-know-calls-texts-emails-ai/"
updated: "2025-10-08"
category: AI Caller
---

# TCPA Rules Every Business Must Know (Calls, Texts, Emails & AI)

The **Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)** regulates marketing calls, texts, and voicemails in the U.S.
You must get **express written consent** before sending promotional or automated messages—including **AI-assisted or recorded calls**.
You must also allow easy **opt-out options** and honor **Do Not Call (DNC)** requests. Penalties range from **$500 to $1,500 per violation**.

### **Detailed Overview with AI-Specific Examples**

#### **What the TCPA Covers**

- Automated or AI-assisted **calls**, **texts**, or **voicemails**.
- **Recorded voice messages** (including AI or synthetic voices).
- Calls or texts made through **dialing platforms** like Twilio or GoHighLevel.

**Example:**
*Allowed* – You call a lead using an AI receptionist only after they consent to receive AI or automated calls.
*Not allowed* – Your AI bot dials leads without prior written permission.

#### **Consent Requirements (with AI Disclosure)**

You must have **clear written consent** that explicitly allows:

- Calls, texts, and emails;
- The use of **AI-assisted or recorded voices**;
- The purpose (quotes, reminders, promotions, or follow-ups);
- And the option to **opt out anytime**.

**Example of Proper Consent:**

By submitting, you consent to receive **calls, texts, and emails** from **{{company_name}}**, including **AI-assisted or recorded calls**, about services, quotes, or appointments. Message and data rates may apply. Reply **STOP** to opt out anytime.

Includes all channels (voice/text/email)
Discloses AI or recording usage
Mentions opt-out and data rates
TCPA-compliant for automation platforms

#### **Opt-Out & DNC Rules**

- Must allow **STOP, unsubscribe, or email opt-outs**.
- Honor all opt-outs within **10 business days**.
- Never call numbers on the **National Do Not Call list**.

**Example:**
If someone replies **STOP**, remove them from all AI and human call lists immediately.
Keep calling after a STOP message — each attempt = separate violation.

#### **Call Timing**

- Only call between **8 AM and 9 PM** local time of the contact.
- Avoid repeated or back-to-back calls from multiple AI agents.

#### **Penalties**

- $500 per unintentional violation.
- Up to $1,500 per **willful or repeated** violation.
- Applies per call, text, or AI-initiated message.

### **Best Practices**

1. Always include **“AI-assisted or recorded call” disclosure** in every consent form.
2. Record **timestamps, IPs, and source** of each consent.
3. Offer **easy opt-outs** (STOP, unsubscribe, or email).
4. Use **compliant calling hours** and verify against **DNC lists**.
5. Monitor and audit all **AI caller scripts and logs** regularly.