Configure SMS

Note: Sending SMS is currently available to United States organizations to send texts to United-States based 10DCL and Canadian numbers.

SMS text messaging is another communication option alongside email. To learn how the agent handles SMS messaging, see SMS Messaging with Development Agent.

  1. In Development Agent, select Configure SMS from Related Links on the right.

  2. Select Allow the Development Agent to send SMS Messages.

  3. Provide your organization's information for use in carrier registration and compliance process.

    • Organization name - The official name of your organization, which can be different than the preferred name set in Display names.

    • EIN - Your organization's Employer Identification Number (EIN). You can typically find this number on IRS documents, such as your determination letter or Form 990.

  4. Enter your organization’s primary address, including Country, Address, City, State, ZIP code, and Phone number.

  5. The Representative’s email must belong to someone at your organization who can respond during the carrier approval process and provide final authorization if requested. This email must use your organization’s domain and can’t be changed after you save the configuration.

  6. (Optional) Enter your preferred area code for your agent. While we cannot guarantee the carrier's availability for the area code, we will attempt to use your preference.

    Note: Not all area codes are available for selection. Available options depend on existing phone number inventory and may not include every geographic region. If you don't see your preferred area code, you can leave this option blank and an area code will be assigned to your agent.

  7. Provide links that support SMS compliance requirements. All URLs must be secure (HTTPS), publicly accessible, and complete (not in a draft state).

    • Website

    • Privacy policy URL

    • Terms & conditions URL

    Warning: Before saving, ensure your privacy policy and terms and conditions meet carrier requirements. Incomplete or non‑compliant links may delay approval.

  8. Select Save.

Carrier approval for SMS may take up to two weeks. When approved and complete, you'll be notified by email and receive a notification in Development Agent confirming that SMS messaging is ready to use:

Confirmation message about agent phone number creation

If the carrier declines your submission, you’ll see the following message:

"Your SMS submission was declined by the carrier. Don't worry — our team is on it and will be in touch to get this sorted out for you."

For declined submissions, Blackbaud will work directly with the carrier to identify the issue. In many cases, this involves updating registration details, such as messaging descriptions or compliance links. You don’t need to take any action unless we contact you for additional information.