How to Register a Local Texting Number with Real Geeks

Background

Starting in September 2023, U.S. phone carriers introduced new rules to reduce spam calls and text messages. These rules impact all technology providers, including Real Geeks.

To comply, our texting provider, Twilio, requires users to register their business information to send SMS messages through the Real Geeks CRM.

Texting is a key part of lead response and conversion, and we’re committed to keeping these tools—like SMS auto-responses, Geek AI, workflows, and individual texts—working smoothly for you. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your texting services stay active.

What Do You Need to Do?

If you own a Real Geeks website or CRM, you need to register and get approved to send text messages using a local number. If you manage multiple Real Geeks websites, you’ll need to submit a separate application for each.

Fill out this form with your full legal business details. The process takes just a few minutes: https://realgeeksllc.typeform.com/texting-reg-us

Real Geeks will cover the application fee for you.

Approval typically takes up to 3 weeks.

💡 Important

Make sure your business information is accurate before submitting. Incorrect information will require re-submission, which can delay approval.

What Information Do You Need to Register?

To complete your registration, you’ll need the following:

Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Business Name
Business Address
Business Type

💡 Helpful Tips

If you’re unsure of your EIN, you can usually find it on old tax returns, business bank statements, or loan applications.

Need help? Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933.

If you’re a sole proprietor and don’t have a registered business, you can still apply by selecting “Sole Proprietor” on the form.

What Happens Next?

While your local number is temporarily disabled, toll-free numbers can be used to send texts to both new and existing leads.
Text messages sent from different phone numbers will still appear in your lead’s activity history.

If a lead texts your old local number during this period, you’ll still receive the message, but your reply will come from your temporary toll-free number.

Other Updates

Like other technology companies, we may need to adjust our processes or tools to meet changing carrier requirements. We’ll keep you informed about any future updates.

Need Help?

If you have questions or need assistance:

Call us at: 844-311-4969
Email: support@realgeeks.com

Learn More

For additional details, check out these blog articles:

FAQ

What information is needed to register?

You’ll need to provide your:

EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Business Name
Business Address
Business Type

What is an EIN?

The EIN is a unique identifier for your business, issued by the IRS. You can find it on tax returns, bank statements, or loan applications. If you don’t have an EIN, you can apply for one through the IRS.

Do my agents need to register too?

No, only the account owner needs to register.

I don’t have a registered business—what should I do?

If you’re a sole proprietor, you can still register. Just select “Sole Proprietor” on the form. Registered businesses have higher text message limits, but most agents don’t reach those limits.

What happens if a lead texts my old local number?

If a lead sends a message to your old number, you’ll still receive it. However, your response will be sent using your assigned toll-free number, creating a new conversation thread for the lead.

Will the toll-free number be used for all leads?

Yes, it can be used to text both new and existing leads while your local number is disabled.