Auto Dialer Compliance Guidelines for Non-Profit Organizations

Posted In | CRM | Help Desk | Auto Dialer | Non Profit Organizations

Auto dialers are powerful tools that can significantly enhance the efficiency of communication, particularly with large audiences. These systems automatically dial a list of telephone numbers and connect the call to an agent or play a pre-recorded message once the call is answered. They are widely used by various businesses and organizations, including non-profit organizations, to communicate with donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries. However, the use of auto dialers is regulated by several laws and regulations to protect consumers from unsolicited calls and messages. As such, non-profit organizations must ensure they are in compliance with these guidelines when using auto dialers. Here are the key areas to consider
 

 

1. Consent to Call

According to the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), an organization must obtain prior express written consent from the recipient before making an auto dialed call or sending a pre-recorded message. Consent can be obtained through various means, such as a signed form, an online form, or a recorded verbal agreement.
 

2. Do Not Call Registry

The National Do Not Call Registry provides consumers with the option to limit the telemarketing calls they receive. Organizations are required to check the registry and ensure they do not call any numbers listed there. However, non-profit organizations are exempt from this rule if the calls are made for charitable solicitation.
 

3. Caller ID Information

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that all auto dialed calls transmit accurate caller ID information. The information should include the name of the organization and a phone number where the organization can be reached.
 

4. Call Abandonment

The FCC requires that organizations using an auto dialer ensure that no more than three percent of their calls result in a hang-up or 'abandoned' call. This means that the call is ended before the recipient has a chance to answer or within two seconds of the recipient's greeting.
 

5. Opt-Out Mechanism

Non-profit organizations using an auto dialer to send pre-recorded messages must provide an interactive opt-out mechanism during the call. This allows recipients to immediately opt-out of receiving further calls from the organization.
 

Non-profit organizations can greatly benefit from using auto dialers to reach out to their audience. However, it's crucial to understand and adhere to the compliance guidelines to avoid potential legal complications. Always consult with a legal expert or professional to ensure your organization's practices are in line with the current laws and regulations.