Frequently Asked Questions

frequently asked questions
for users

For Consumers

 for businesses

For Businesses


For Users

For Users
How do I join a TextStart list?
Each business has its own keyword that they'll display in their promotional materials. Simply text "START" followed by that code and send it to 60066. For example, to join Bob's Bistro's list you would text "START BOBS" to 60066. Alternatively, create an online account and you can opt-in to as many businesses as you like and search for TextStart businesses near you.
What if I've got a mobile from another country?
Unfortunately we can only accept numbers from the country in which the business is based.
How much does it cost to join a TextStart list?
Just your normal text rate - or - if you prefer you can add your name to as many lists as you want online at TextStart.com at no cost at all.
Do I have to pay for the messages I receive?
Absolutely not! All messages you receive are completely free.
Will I receive lots of junk texts (SPAM)?
NEVER. You'll only ever receive messages from the businesses you've selected. We will never sell or rent your information. For full details see our NO SPAM POLICY.
What kind of messages will I receive?
The businesses you choose can send you promotions, news, special invitations - whatever.
How many messages will I receive?
Each business can determine how many messages they send out.
What if I want to remove my name from a list and stop any future messages?
Simply text "QUIT" followed by the relevant keyword to 60066 and your number will be removed automatically. You can also do this online at www.textstart.com.
How can I find new businesses in my area that offer a TextStart list?
Three ways:
  1. Keep an eye out for our logo displayed in their place of business
  2. Visit www.textstart.com regularly
  3. Tell us the kinds of businesses you like in your profile and we can email you when new businesses like that join near you.


For Businesses

For Businesses
What does a TextStart account cost?
It costs nothing to set-up your account -all you ever pay for are the messages you send out.
How do customers join my list?
Your can add customers to your opt-in list in any of three ways:
  1. Get them to text "START <<YOURKEYWORD>>" to 60066
  2. Send them to www.textstart.com, enter their mobile number and select your business
  3. Collect numbers on hardcopy forms and then add the numbers individually through your account page
What sort of messages can I send?
Special offers, news, promotions, secret sales, VIP passes - it's up to you. For guidelines on the best types of messages to send check out our tip sheets in your account section.
Can I choose my own keyword?
Yes, within reason. Your keyword needs to be between 2 and 9 characters and can be either letters, numbers or both. If it's available it will be provisionally allocated to you but we reserve the right to cancel any keywords that are rude.
How do I purchase credits?
You can buy credits online by credit/debit card or by sending a cheque/postal order. To buy credits simply click the 'buy credits' button on the account page and follow the prompts.
What about auto-reply?
Auto-reply allows you to send out an automatic text response to everyone who joins your list by text message. To activate auto-reply simply select it in your account section and type in your message or use the default one provided. Each auto-reply costs one message credit and will stop whenever you run out of credits.

Auto-reply is a great way to welcome people to your list and provide them with details about how to opt-out as well. You can also include a special offer as an incentive for people to join your list.
Can I import my own lists?
Yes, simply enter them into your account or send them to us and we'll do it for you. Remember though, YOU MUST HAVE PERMISSION TO CONTACT THESE PEOPLE BEFORE YOU ADD THEM TO YOUR TEXTSTART ACCOUNT. If you don't it's called SPAM and you can be prosecuted.
Do I have to send to my entire list every time?
No, you can choose to send to your entire list, a random selection or even a single number to preview a message.
What countries can I use TextStart in?
Currently, TextStart is only available in the UK with plans to launch in the Republic of Ireland in the near future. If you are interested in using TextStart in another country please get in touch as we are expanding rapidly and might be starting in your country soon.
Why should I use TextStart when there are so many other text messaging services?
Good question. TextStart has been designed to make the whole process of building and using your list as simple and automated as possible. Unlike, many services we give you a free inbound keyword and you pay no set-up or monthly fees. What's more we'll even help you build you opt-in list. If you need a few more reasons - give us a ring on 0845 838 7915.
What does it cost my customers?
If they text to opt-in, just their normal message rate, if they do it online, it's free. Your customers are never charged for the messages they receive.
Can I have more than one keyword?
Yes, just get in touch and we'll set them up for you.
What if I close my account?
As there are never any fees to pay other than your message credits there's no need to close your account. However, if you would like to close it for any reason, simply let us know and we'll close it immediately. We cannot refund any unused credits though and you will not be able to take your list with you.
How can I promote my list?
In any way you like - check out our tip sheets and regular newsletter for ideas. We'll also promote your list online and in our promotions too. If you'd like some further help or ideas - or you'd like us to do it for you - simply get in touch.