10DLC Brand Registration Failure Reasons
10DLC Brand Registration Failure Reasons
Brand registration is the first step of 10DLC setup. If your brand registration fails, here are the most common causes and fixes.
Common Failure Reasons
1. EIN/Tax ID Doesn't Match Legal Name
The legal company name on your registration must match your IRS records exactly, including suffixes (Inc., LLC, Corp.).
Fix: Look up your EIN at the IRS website or check your W-2/tax filings. Use the exact name shown.
2. Using DUNS Instead of EIN
DUNS numbers are not accepted for 10DLC brand registration. Only EIN (US) or equivalent tax IDs (international).
Fix: Provide your EIN. If you don't have one, apply at irs.gov.
3. Address Mismatch
Your registered business address must match public records.
Fix: Use the address on file with the IRS or state business registry.
4. Invalid Website
The website provided doesn't load, is under construction, or doesn't match the registered brand.
Fix: Provide a live, functional website that matches your business name.
5. Stock Ticker Mismatch (Public Companies)
For publicly traded companies, the stock ticker must match SEC filings.
Fix: Verify your ticker symbol in SEC EDGAR and enter it exactly.
6. Nonprofit/Government Verification Failure
Your organization cannot be verified as a registered nonprofit or government entity.
Fix: Ensure your EIN is listed on the IRS Tax-Exempt Organizations list or relevant government registry.
After Fixing
Resubmit your brand registration with corrected information. The $44 registration fee applies again, though $4.50 is non-refundable from the failed attempt.