What is 10DLC? A Simple Guide for Nonprofits

What is 10DLC? A Simple Guide for Nonprofits and Mission-Driven Organizations

In today’s digital landscape, SMS and MMS are two of the most effective ways to reach supporters directly. But if your organization is sending messages at scale—whether thank-you texts, event invites, or donation appeals—you’ll need a solution that ensures your messages are delivered quickly, affordably, and legally.

That’s where 10DLC comes in.

Short for 10-digit long code, 10DLC is a messaging framework built for organizations that send application-to-person (A2P) messages. It’s designed to meet growing demand for scalable text messaging—without falling into the spam trap or violating carrier regulations.

In this post, we’ll break down:

• What 10DLC is and why it matters
• The benefits of registering your campaigns
• How to get started the smart (and compliant) way

What Is 10DLC?

10DLC stands for 10-digit long code—a local phone number approved by mobile carriers for mass texting. Unlike traditional personal-use numbers, 10DLC numbers are registered through a centralized system (The Campaign Registry) that links your number to your brand and messaging use case.

This verification process gives carriers the confidence to deliver your messages, while giving your audience the trust and transparency they deserve.

Why 10DLC Exists (And What Came Before)

Before 10DLC, businesses and nonprofits had three options:

1. Short Codes — High-volume but expensive and inflexible (can’t receive calls).
2. Toll-Free Numbers — Cheaper and good for two-way texting, but sometimes seen as spammy or impersonal.
3. Local Long Codes — Familiar and personal, but not allowed for bulk or automated texting.

10DLC fills the gap: local numbers approved for higher-volume A2P messaging with strong deliverability and lower costs than short codes.

Benefits of 10DLC for Nonprofits and Businesses

Improved Deliverability

Carriers prioritize verified 10DLC traffic. That means fewer blocked messages, better inbox placement, and higher click-through rates—especially important for time-sensitive appeals or donation drives.

Lower Costs Than Short Codes

10DLC costs a fraction of what you'd pay to lease a dedicated short code, and there are no six-week waits or heavy maintenance fees. It’s built for organizations that want to scale smartly.

Enhanced Compliance and Trust

Spammy messages have led carriers to crack down. If you’re sending A2P messages without registration, your texts may get filtered—or worse, your number could get shut down. 10DLC keeps your program permission-based and future-proof.

Phone Call Capable

Unlike short codes, 10DLC numbers can also receive phone calls—ideal for organizations that want a unified, branded number for calls and texts.

Who Needs 10DLC?

You should be using 10DLC if:

• You’re texting from a local number to more than a few dozen contacts a day
• You use automation or templates to send messages
• You run donation appeals, event promotions, or supporter updates via SMS
• You want better insights with tools like link tracking and click analytics

How to Register for 10DLC

The process may feel bureaucratic—but it’s required. Here's what you'll need:

1. A Verified Business/Nonprofit — You'll need your EIN, website, and address.
2. A Registered Brand — This identifies your organization in the carrier database.
3. A Registered Campaign — This outlines your messaging use case (e.g., donor updates, event alerts).
4. Opt-In & Compliance — You’ll need a clear opt-in process and sample messages.

At Rally Corp, we walk our clients through this step by step—and in most cases, we’ll have you registered and approved within 3–5 business days.

Final Thoughts: 10DLC Isn’t a Headache—It’s a Hidden Advantage

10DLC may sound like red tape, but it’s actually your competitive edge. With better deliverability, stronger compliance, and lower costs, you’re able to send messages that reach more people—and raise more support.

If your current provider isn’t talking to you about 10DLC compliance, they’re putting your reputation (and your outreach results) at risk.

Ready to get compliant—and see better results?

We’ll handle the paperwork and setup. You handle the mission.

👉 Talk to our team and we’ll guide you through the 10DLC approval process.