Auto Dialer Regulations and Non-Profits: What You Need to Know

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

Non-profit organizations often rely on phone calls to reach out to potential donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries. To make the process more efficient, many use auto dialers - software or hardware devices that dial phone numbers automatically. However, the use of auto dialers is governed by specific regulations that non-profit organizations must be aware of and comply with.
 

Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Regulations

The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) has established rules pertaining to the use of auto dialers under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). These rules prohibit using auto dialers to call or text mobile phone numbers without prior express consent. However, emergency calls and calls made for non-commercial purposes (like those from non-profits) are generally exempted from these rules.
 

State Regulations

In addition to federal laws, individual states may have their own regulations regarding the use of auto dialers. Non-profits should carefully review the laws in each state where they plan to make calls. Some states require specific disclosures during the call, while others may have restrictions on the times of day when calls can be made.
 

Do Not Call Registry

The National Do Not Call Registry is a list of phone numbers from consumers who have indicated their preference to limit the telemarketing calls they receive. Non-profits must respect this list and refrain from calling numbers on it, even if they are using auto dialers for non-commercial purposes. However, there are exceptions for calls made for charitable solicitation.
 

Consent and Opt-Out

Even though non-profits are generally exempted from TCPA's consent requirements for non-commercial calls, it's good practice to obtain consent before dialing a number with an auto dialer. Recipients should also be provided with an easy and clear way to opt-out of future calls.
 

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with auto dialer regulations can lead to hefty fines. Under the TCPA, penalties can range from $500 to $1,500 per violation. State penalties can vary widely and may be even higher.
 

While auto dialers can be a valuable tool for non-profit outreach, it's crucial to understand and comply with all relevant regulations. Non-profits should seek legal advice to ensure they are fully compliant to avoid potential fines and damage to their reputation.