It’s a new day and another new rule for us in TCPAWorld!

On August 27, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) unveiled updated fees for accessing phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry (“DNC Registry”). The raised fees will take effect on October 01, 2024, increasing the cost of compliance for telemarketers amidst a spate of regulatory changes.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Annual Fees: The annual cost for accessing each area code will increase from $78 to $80.
2. Maximum Fee: The cap on the total fee any single entity can be charged for accessing area codes will increase from $21,402 to $22,038.
3. Additional Area Codes: The fee for adding area codes during the second half of the annual subscription period will increase from $39 to $40.

Notably, all telemarketers must access phone numbers on the DNC Registry to ensure they do not call consumers who have opted out. The first five area codes are available free, and certain organizations, like charities and political callers, can obtain the entire list at no cost. Telemarketers must subscribe each year for access to the DNC Registry.

These changes are in line with the Do-Not-Call Registry Fee Extension Act of 2007, which requires periodic fee adjustments. The fee increases were approved by a unanimous 5-0 FTC vote and are considered technical updates, thus waiving the typical notice and comment requirements.

The Final Rule can be accessed here: Telemarketing Sales Rule – Do Not Call Fee Updates – Final Rule 2024 (ftc.gov).

Of course, this is not the only change telemarketers need to bear in mind heading into 2025. The FTC’s new one-to-one consent rule comes into effect on January 27, 2025, amidst seemingly widespread confusion. 

As always, keep watching this space to stay informed on the latest TCPA news!