TCPA Cold Calling Rules 2026: Key Guidelines
Last verified · by Topcalls Team
Quick answer
The TCPA sets telemarketing fines up to $500 per violation.
Up to $500 per violation
The details
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is important for regulating telemarketing practices in the USA. It requires prior express written consent for telemarketing calls made using an autodialer or prerecorded voice messages. Calls are restricted to the hours between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. in the recipient's time zone. Telemarketers must also honor the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry. Violations can lead to fines of up to $500 per incident, with potential treble damages for willful non-compliance. The definition of an autodialer can be broad, potentially including systems that have the capacity to store or produce numbers and dial them without human intervention. This matters as companies need to ensure their systems are compliant to avoid hefty penalties.
How it compares
| Entity | Value | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Topcalls | $0.35/min | Pricing |
| Competitor A | Usage-based per minute, telephony billed separately | Pricing Model |
| Standard Call Hours | 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Calling Hours |
| DNC List Compliance | Mandatory | Regulation |
Sources
Frequently asked questions
- What is the TCPA consent requirement?
- The TCPA requires prior express written consent for telemarketing calls using an autodialer.
- What are the TCPA calling hours?
- Calls are permitted between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. in the recipient's local time.
- How does the DNC list affect telemarketers?
- Telemarketers must avoid calling numbers listed on the National Do Not Call Registry.
- What penalties exist for TCPA violations?
- Violations can result in fines up to $500 per incident, with possible treble damages for willful violations.
- What qualifies as an autodialer under TCPA?
- An autodialer is any system with the capacity to store or produce numbers and dial them without human intervention.
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